At Temuku Africa, we design and deliver electrical and renewable energy solutions that meet international safety and performance standards. One of the most important design considerations in any project—whether it’s a home installation, a solar plant, or a utility-grade system—is selecting the correct type of power cable.
Different cables exist for a reason. Using the wrong type of cable can result in overheating, voltage drop, equipment damage, or even fire hazards. This article explains why various cable types are used in different environments, and highlights the relevant IEC, ISO, and SAZ standards that guide Temuku Africa’s engineering work.
1. Hard-Stranded vs. Soft-Stranded Conductors
Hard-Stranded / Solid Conductors
These are best suited for fixed installations such as building wiring and distribution boards.
Advantages:
- Lower resistance variation along the conductor
- Cost-effective
- Easy to terminate
- Stable inside conduits and trunking
Typical Applications:
Residential wiring, commercial building installations, fixed circuits.
Soft-Stranded / Flexible Conductors
Flexible conductors are essential where movement, vibration, or bending is expected.
Advantages:
- Highly flexible (high strand count)
- Ideal for environments with vibration or frequent manipulation
- Reduced risk of conductor fatigue
Typical Applications:
Solar PV strings, battery banks, welding machines, generators, and industrial machinery.
2. DC Cables vs. AC Cables
DC Cables
Temuku Africa uses DC cables primarily in solar PV arrays, battery systems, EV charging components, and telecom power systems.
Key Characteristics:
- Thicker insulation to withstand continuous DC voltage stress
- UV- and ozone-resistant for outdoor installations
- Tinned copper for corrosion protection
- Optimized for low resistance and low inductance
Relevant Standard: IEC 62930 – Solar PV DC cables
AC Cables
AC cables are used in utility distribution networks, household circuits, industrial systems, and motor installations.
Key Characteristics:
- Designed for alternating voltage cycles
- Often multi-core (Live, Neutral, Earth)
- Optimized for reactive loads such as motors and transformers
Relevant Standard: IEC 60502 – LV/MV power cables
3. Insulation and Sheathing Materials Matter
Different environments require specific insulation to ensure long-term reliability and safety.
Common Insulation Types
- PVC – Cost-effective, used in general building wiring
- XLPE – Superior temperature rating and dielectric strength; used in LV/MV utility systems
- Rubber (EPR/Neoprene) – High flexibility; used in mining, heavy industry, and mobile equipment
- LSZH (Low Smoke Zero Halogen) – Safer in fire situations, ideal for public buildings and enclosed spaces
Environmental Suitability
- Outdoor PV installations: UV-resistant single-core solar cable (IEC 62930)
- Underground runs: Armoured cables (SWA/AWA) to protect against mechanical damage
- Industrial plants: Oil-, moisture-, and chemical-resistant sheaths depending on the process environment
4. Standards that Guide Cable Selection (IEC, ISO, SAZ)
At Temuku Africa, every installation complies with global and regional standards to guarantee safety, performance, and long-term reliability.
IEC Standards
- IEC 60228 – Conductor sizing and classification
- IEC 60502-1/2 – Low- and medium-voltage cable construction
- IEC 60332 – Flame-retardant testing
- IEC 62930 – Solar DC cable specification
ISO Standards
These guide the manufacturing quality and environmental compliance of cable producers:
- ISO 9001 – Quality management
- ISO 14001 – Environmental management
SAZ Standards (Zimbabwe)
SAZ adopts and harmonizes many IEC standards, ensuring local compliance:
- SAZS 741 – Electrical installations
- SAZS 732 – Wiring cable specifications
- SAZS 292 – PVC-insulated cables
Other Regional Standards
- SANS 1507 (South Africa) – LV cable standards
- BS 5467 & BS 6724 (UK) – Armoured cable specifications
5. Matching Cable Type to the Application
Below is a quick reference guide summarizing where different cables are used:
| Application | Recommended Cable | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Residential building wiring | Solid conductor PVC cable | Cost-effective, fixed installation |
| Solar PV arrays | Flexible PV1-F cable | UV-proof, tinned copper, designed for DC stress |
| Battery systems | High-strand flexible DC cable | Handles high current & vibration |
| Motors and pumps | Armoured XLPE cable | Extra protection & high temperature rating |
| Underground networks | SWA/AWA armoured cable | Mechanical and moisture protection |
| Substation LV/MV | XLPE insulated utility-grade cable | High dielectric strength & longevity |
Conclusion
Cable selection is not a one-size-fits-all process. Every installation—domestic, commercial, industrial, or solar—has specific electrical and environmental demands. At Temuku Africa, we follow internationally recognized standards and engineering best practices to ensure that every system is safe, reliable, and built to last.
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