Wire & cables
Before buying cables, determine the load, installation location, wire length, and especially the cable type.
Choosing the right cable means understanding different types and their specs, as the application depends on these factors. Wires are several strands twisted together, insulated or not.
Check the alphanumeric marking:
• First letter “A” means aluminum core; no letter means copper.
• Copper is durable, ideal for high currents but oxidizes if exposed.
• Aluminum is lighter, cheaper, and used for stationary wiring.
The second letter shows the protective sheath type, while the third and fourth describe insulation and overall structure.
Conductor insulation colors are crucial for safe installation:
• Yellow/green: ground
• Yellow/green with blue dots: grounding, offset from neutral
• Blue: neutral (zero)
• Black/brown: phase wire