How to Choose the Right Wire or Cable
In selecting a wire or cable for an application, the following factors should be considered:
CONDUCTORS
Is the material to be bare, tinned or plated copper, or perhaps, aluminum or bronze, nickel or other alloy?
INSULATION
What temperature will the wire be subjected to in the application in which it will be used? Will the wire be exposed to moisture, chemicals or oils?
COVERINGS
Will the application require a protective covering such as nylon, cotton, glass or metal braid over the insulation?
PROCESSIBILITY
Will the wire require processing such as stripping or cutting? Will processing be done by hand or with an automated machine?
EXAMPLE: The hardness of PVC may differ between manufacturers, and thus, potentially affect the ease at which the wire may be processed. Different equipment may produce different results. However, machine adjustments can typically be made to help accommodate these differences.