What is wire insulation? How does it provide wire protection?
The material that covers and holds wires together is what we know as wire insulation. It helps to contain the electrical current produced from our wires. Usually, wire insulation is made from various kinds of plastic or polymers. Wire insulation is mainly done in two types of material; thermoset and thermoplastic.
Wire insulation protects your wires by preventing current from other conductors. When you have insulated wires, they are protected against environmental factors. Insulation also helps to resist electrical leakage from your wires.
Litz wire, enamel wire, and magnet wire -
are they different and how do they provide wire protection?
Also known as: Enameled wire, Magnet wire, enameled copper wire, types including
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General enameled wire: PEW polyester enameled wire
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Special enameled wire: UEW polyurethane enameled wire
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Heat-resistant enameled wire: EIW polyesterimide enameled copper wire
One or more layers of insulating paint film are coated on the surface of the metal conductor, and then dried to form.
PTFE insulation -
insulation material types you should know
Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) is a fluorocarbon polymer insulation material. It allows you to use and operate wiring systems even in the most demanding circumstances. PTFE is extremely resistant to lubricants and fuels. It has great electrical and thermal properties and is very flexible.
Silicone Insulation -
What is silicone insulation and what are its benefits?
Silicone displays incredible hydrophobic properties. It also has excellent thermal resistance. For these properties, silicone rubber becomes the perfect cable insulation material.
When you subject liquid silicone rubber to various environmental conditions like temperature changes and moisture, it maintains its electrical properties. This constant behavior is what makes silicone a great insulator. You can use it in transformers, high-voltage components and other electrical equipment.
Silicone has great flexibility and is very durable. It maintains top notch performance for a long time.
Mylar insulation -
What is mylar insulation?
There are some plastics that are great insulators as they can trap heat effectively. A great example is mylar. In mylar insulation, ⅛” of bubble is wrapped with 2 layers of metalized mylar foil. It creates an effective insulation on wires.
Mylar insulated wires can be used in heating and cooling ducts, plumbing applications, building and window applications.
Heat shrink tube -
What is heat shrink tube?
A heat shrink tube is a plastic tube that is capable of shrinkage. It is used in wire insulation to provide resistance to abrasion and environmental factors. It is placed on solid wire conductors and connections. You can also use it on terminals and joints in electrical wiring.
