Determining if you need a solid wireor a stranded wire is often a big challenge. As I indicated earlier, each wire has its advantages and disadvantages subject to your specific application. The best way to compare these two types of cables is to explore their benefits and cons across various spheres including weather resistance and elasticity, to name a few. Here is a point by point comparison of a solid core wireversus a stranded wire;
Wire current carrying capacity
As I mentioned earlier, solid wireis thicker and has a smaller surface area compared to a stranded wire. The thin wires that make up stranded wires also contain air gaps between them. Essentially, a solid cable is a better conductor of electricity than a stranded wire owing to the features mentioned above. Does this mean that a solid-type wire has superior current carrying capacity?
Generally speaking, a cable’s carrying capacity is largely determined by its size which is often denoted in American Wire Gauge(AWG) standard. So, the primary question that you should be asking is; are solid wire sizes larger than those of a stranded wire?
Contrary to popular believe, the ultimate overall size of a conductor remains the same whether it comprises multiple strands or a single solid conductor. A 24 gauge solid wire is still a 24 AWG wire, to put it simply. Under similar conditions, a stranded wire of the size has an identical current-carrying capacity.
Flexibility
Logically, a stranded wire is more flexible than a solid copper wire. It can sustain repeated bending and flexing without damage. If you use a solid variation for flexing applications you will most likely incur repeated expenses due to constant replacements.
Routing
Between solid wires vs. flux core, the flux option is ideal for routing applications due to its flexibility. Sensibly, a stranded wire offers greater bending capabilities, making it easier to route whenever you incur hurdles along the wiring path.
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