The benefits of wrapping your electrical cables are many, especially when it comes to maintaining cables. Not only will it protect them from damage and prolong their useful life, but it can also help to reduce the amount of dirt that gets into the cable by keeping leaves and other plant matter away. Using a cable wrap is also a great way of hiding cables if they’re in an awkward place or if you have limited space for installing electrical cables. In this article we’ll be taking a look at everything from what is wrapped in cable, how to do it yourself, which wraps are best and what the different types of wrap are.
What is wrapped in cable?
Electrical cables are mainly used for running electricity from the power supply to the device that is receiving the power. Cables are made from a variety of materials such as copper, aluminium, polyethylene, polypropylene and PVC. When choosing a cable wrap, you need to pick a material that will not only protect the cable, but also keep the dirt away. For this reason, a good material to pick is polyethylene which is both flexible and durable. Electrical cables are wrapped in many different ways depending on the desired outcome. For example, all power cables are wrapped in wide rubber, vinyl, or neoprene tape.
How to wrap electrical cables
If you’re new to wrapping cables, you’ll want to start by unwrapping your cables. This will allow you to get a better idea of what components are used on electrical cables. Once you’ve unwrapped your cables, you’ll need to first mark the ends with a marker, this is so you’ll know which end is the “hot” end and which is the “neutral” end. Next, to wrap the cables, you’ll need to have electrical tape, heat shrink tubing, or a heat gun. Once you’ve got your wrapping materials, you can start by cutting the cable to the desired length. Next, you’ll want to strip off the end of the cable and apply a layer of tape to protect the cable from damage. Once the cable is covered in tape, you can apply the wrap to the cable by using the rollers on the tape dispenser.
Which wraps are best?
There are many different types of cable wraps, but which ones are the best for your needs? - PVC tape with heat shrink tubing - This is a great wrap for PVC cables as it protects the cable from damage and dirt while also keeping it flexible. - Polyethylene - This is the wrap that is most commonly used on electrical cables. It is flexible, durable, easy to clean, and doesn’t retain moisture. - Nylon tape - This is a great option if you want to wrap cables that have a higher current. - Heat shrink tubing - This is great for protecting and extending the life of cables by keeping them free from dirt and moisture. - Polyethylene - This is a great material to wrap cables in as it is both flexible and durable. - Rubber - If you want to protect your cables while also adding some style to your installation, rubber cable wraps are a great option.
Wrapped shielded cables
If you’re installing shielded cables, then you’ll need to wrap the cables to keep them protected from damage. To protect shielded cables from damage, the cables are wrapped in a fashion to protect the cable from dirt and other damaging elements. Shielded cables are designed to shield electromagnetic radiation, so they are mostly used in data centres and computer rooms.
Wrapped unshielded cables
Some electrical cables, such as copper and aluminium electrical cables, do not require protection from dirt or damage. Some electrical companies may also offer unshielded cables as an option, which may be cheaper than a shielded cable, but have the same electrical conductivity. If your installation doesn’t require protection from electromagnetic radiation, then unshielded cables are an option that you should consider. Unshielded cables can be used to run power, data, and phone lines. Unlike shielded cables, unshielded cables do not require shielding, so they are not as deterministic and can be used inside walls, but not outside.
Wrapped power and data cables
You will find many different types of cable wraps to protect the wires and cables from damage, including rubber, heat shrink, PVC, and neoprene. If you need to protect your power or data cables from damage, you can choose from a range of protective wrap options.
Wrapping for pest control
If you are installing cables underground, or where there may be an issue with pests, you may want to consider using a cable wrap for protection. When wires are exposed, insects can easily chew through them or burrow into them, causing problems and damage. Protecting the wires with a cable wrap will keep them moist, but not wet, preventing insects from getting in and damaging them.
Conclusion
Cables are one of the vital components in the wiring system and they should be protected from external harm. Electrical cables can be found in various sizes, shapes and colours - all of which pose a threat of accidents if they're not protected. If your cables are exposed, damaged, or dirty, they can be damaged by mosquitoes and other flying insects. Best glass fibre wrapping Cable wraps are essential when it comes to maintaining the condition of your cables, both inside and outside your home.
