What Is Single Core Cable Used For?

The single core cable is probably one of the most widely-used wires in our homes, shops, businesses and commercial installations. The most common use of single core strand cable is for transferring electrical power from one location to another. However, depending on the single core cable size required, it’s application may also span into other areas, such as for wiring in electrical appliances and equipment.

You may also see single core unsheathed cable used for electrical applications involving computers, power control panels and in powering of electrical gadgets.

For applications, where there is a risk of electromagnetic interference (EMI), you can also get single core wire with specially manufactured shielding that’s manufactured into the cable. Similar configuration shielding may also be available for flexible multicore cable. This type of shielded cable is also known as braided cable.

Shielded or braided cables are extremely adept at preventing external forces, such as signals from communication equipment or electromagnetic pulses from high-powered electrical or electronic devices, from compromising their functionality.

For example, electricians might use a single core braided cable to protect the cable if it passes near a microwave oven or a household cooking appliance. Similarly, if a cabling application passes near an electrical generator, there’s always the risk that EMI from the generator might impact the integrity of the cable. In such cases, either multicore or single core braided cable might be used.

There is also another use of braiding or shielding. Sometimes, engineers might use braided or shielded single core flexible cable in applications where there is need to use slightly stronger cabling. The interwoven metallic braiding serves a dual purpose. Firstly, it helps t deflect EMI, which could potentially compromise the cabling application. However, the use of single core braided cable, compared to the unshielded type, strengthens the overall cable. It protects the cable from mechanical stress and prolongs its life.

Finally, single core wire, with braiding, is also used in applications where engineers require the cable to display additional amounts of flexibility. Because the braiding is manufactured as an interwoven, lattice tubing, a single core braided cable or a similar multicore cable, reinforces the underlying insulated conductors, and adds flex and versatility to the entire cable. This approach is used for cabling applications where a single wire cable might encounter tension and twists during installation, for example. The same concept works when there’s a need to use flexible multicore cable.