Instrumentation and control cables are crucial for transmitting low voltage signals from instruments and control systems to the main control panels in industrial environments. They are made up of multiple insulated conductors twisted together in pairs or triples to minimize electromagnetic interference and cross-talk between adjacent wires. The number of conductors varies depending on the specific application and can range from two to sixty or more.
These cables are typically made of high-purity copper, which is an efficient conductor of electricity. The insulation materials used in these cables are polyethylene, polypropylene, or polyvinyl chloride, which offer excellent electrical insulation properties and resist heat, oil, chemicals, and abrasion. The cables may also include an overall shield made of aluminum foil or copper braid to protect against Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) and Radio-Frequency Interference (RFI). Furthermore, to protect instrumentation and control cables from physical damage, moisture, chemicals, and UV radiation, they usually have an outer sheath made of Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) or Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE). This outer sheath provides the cables with flexibility and durability.
There are several types of instrumentation and control cables available, including twisted pair cables, screened cables, and coaxial cables. Twisted pair cables are the most common type and are used for transmitting low voltage signals over short distances, while screened cables are used for applications that require higher levels of EMI protection. Coaxial cables are used for high-frequency applications. In summary, instrumentation and control cables play a vital role in ensuring accurate transmission of signals for efficient operation and safety in industrial environments.
