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Time: 2025-03-03 15:26:52 Source: Henan Province Jianyun Cable Co., Ltd.
All electrical cables serve the fundamental purpose of conducting electricity, but they are designed for different applications. The primary difference between Armoured Cable and Normal Cable is the additional protective "armour" layer in the former. Choosing the right cable ensures safety, durability, and optimal performance.
The armour layer is what sets armoured cables apart. It consists of steel tape, steel wire, or aluminum sheathing, providing extra mechanical protection. In contrast, normal cables lack this armour, featuring only conductors, insulation, and an outer sheath.
| Feature | Armoured Cable | Normal Cable |
|---|---|---|
| Structure | Conductors + Insulation + (Inner Sheath) + Armour Layer + Outer Sheath | Conductors + Insulation + Outer Sheath |
| Armour Layer | Yes (Steel/Aluminum for added protection) | No |
| Mechanical Protection | High resistance to impact, crushing, and abrasion | Low resistance; prone to physical damage |
| Environmental Resistance | Resistant to moisture, chemicals, and harsh conditions | Basic protection against minor abrasion and weather |
| Rodent/Insect Protection | Yes (Deters rodents and termites) | No protection against pests |
| Grounding & Safety | Armour can be grounded for extra safety | No grounding capability |
| Ideal Applications | Underground, industrial sites, construction areas, outdoor lighting, marine environments | Indoor wiring, conduit installations, telecommunications, low-risk environments |
| Cost | Higher (More material and protection) | Lower (Simpler structure) |
| Weight | Heavier due to armour | Lighter and easier to handle |
| Installation Difficulty | More complex (Requires special tools and handling) | Easier (Flexible and user-friendly) |
The level of protection required determines whether armoured or normal cable is the best choice:
| Cable Type | Typical Applications |
|---|---|
| Armoured Cable |
✅ Direct Burial (Underground power distribution, street lighting) ✅ Industrial Plants & Construction Sites (Withstand heavy-duty use) ✅ Outdoor Installations (Security systems, exposed wiring) ✅ Marine & Offshore Applications (Resistant to moisture & corrosion) ✅ High-Power Transmission (Power stations, substations) |
| Normal Cable |
✅ Indoor Wiring (Walls, ceilings, protected areas) ✅ Electrical Equipment Connections (Appliances, office equipment) ✅ Telecommunications & Networking (LAN, telephone cables) ✅ Control & Signal Transmission (Automation systems, low-voltage circuits) |
✔ For high-risk environments requiring protection from mechanical damage, moisture, and rodents → Choose Armoured Cable.
✔ For indoor or low-risk applications with minimal physical stress → Normal Cable is sufficient and cost-effective.
⚠ Important: Always consult a qualified electrician to ensure compliance with local electrical regulations (IEC, NEC, GB, etc.).
