What is an overhead cable

There are significant differences between overhead insulated cables and ordinary cables in multiple aspects, mainly reflected in structure, purpose, laying method, safety, economy, and maintenance convenience. The following is a detailed analysis of the differences between the two:

1, Structure and Materials

Overhead insulated cable:

Structure: Generally a single core structure, covered with high-strength insulation material on the outer layer, and may include a protective outer layer. Its insulation layer can effectively isolate the wire from the external environment and improve safety.

Materials: Copper or aluminum are commonly used as conductors, and there are various insulation materials such as polyethylene, cross-linked polyethylene, etc.

Ordinary cables (such as power cables, communication cables, etc.):

Structure: Depending on the purpose, the structure is complex and diverse, and may include multiple layers such as multi-core conductors, shielding layers, and sheaths.

Material: Copper or aluminum is also used as the conductor, but the selection of insulation and sheath materials is more extensive to meet the needs of different environments.

2, Purpose and laying method

Overhead insulated cable:

Purpose: Mainly used for power distribution, especially in lightning prone areas, old industrial areas, old urban areas and other environmental conditions. Its insulation performance effectively prevents leakage and short circuits, improving power supply safety.

Laying method: It is erected in the air and supported by poles or brackets, which is easy to construct, but attention should be paid to the influence of wind loads and other natural conditions.

Ordinary cable:

Usage: Widely used in multiple fields such as power, communication, control, electric heating, etc., the specific usage depends on the type of cable.

Laying methods: diverse and flexible, suitable for direct burial, pipe penetration, tunnel laying, etc., suitable for various complex environments.

3, Safety and Economy

Overhead insulated cable:

Safety: Good insulation performance, can effectively prevent leakage and short circuit, and reduce the risk of electric shock. At the same time, it is less affected by external climate conditions and environment, and operates stably and reliably.

Economy: Although the initial investment is slightly higher, considering both operating and maintenance costs, its economy is reasonable.

Ordinary cable:

Safety: It also has high safety, but the performance of different types of cables may vary in specific environments.

Economy: The economy varies greatly depending on the type, specification, and purpose of the cable. Generally speaking, the manufacturing and maintenance costs of ordinary cables may increase due to the complexity of their structure and materials.

4, Maintenance and repair

Overhead insulated cable:

Maintenance and repair: Due to the overhead laying, it is convenient for daily inspection and maintenance. Meanwhile, due to its excellent insulation performance, the failure rate is relatively low.

Ordinary cable:

Maintenance and overhaul: The difficulty of maintenance and overhaul varies depending on the laying method. Cables buried directly or laid in tunnels may require more complex maintenance measures.