What Is the Difference Between Control Cables and Power Cables?

Control cables and power cables are two different types of cables, which are very different in terms of use, structure, performance, etc.

1. Differences in use

Control cables: dedicated to transmitting control signals, such as switching and analog signals, connecting the control system of electrical equipment, and realizing remote control of equipment.

Power cables: used to transmit electrical energy, including AC and DC, to transmit the electrical energy generated by power plants to power consumption sites to meet power demand.

2. Structural differences

Control cables: The structure is relatively simple, including core wires, insulation layers, shielding layers and sheaths. The core wires are multi-strand twisted copper wires or aluminum wires; the insulation layer is made of polyethylene or polyvinyl chloride; the shielding layer is copper tape or aluminum foil; the sheath is polyethylene or polyvinyl chloride.

Power cables: The structure is complex, including conductors, insulation layers, shielding layers, fillers and sheaths. The conductors are single or multiple twisted copper wires or aluminum wires; the insulation layer is made of polyethylene or cross-linked polyethylene; the shielding layer is copper tape or aluminum foil; the filler is polypropylene rope or glass fiber; the sheath is polyethylene or polyvinyl chloride.

3. Differences in performance requirements

Control cable: The performance requirements are relatively low, mainly focusing on the accuracy and stability of signal transmission, and the requirements for insulation resistance, withstand voltage level and anti-interference performance are relatively low.

Power cable: The performance requirements are relatively high, and it must meet the requirements of voltage level, current capacity and short-circuit thermal stability, and at the same time, it must have properties such as heat resistance, aging resistance and weather resistance.

4. Differences in installation and maintenance

Control cable: The installation and maintenance are relatively simple, and the wiring and joints can be made according to the design requirements. The insulation condition needs to be checked regularly.

Power cable: The installation and maintenance are complex, and it is necessary to carry out laying, joint making, testing and other work. The insulation condition and joint connection need to be checked regularly, and preventive tests need to be carried out.