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There are different types of power cables, each designed for specific circumstances and purposes. The difference often lies in the conductor materials, insulation, sheath, and overall construction, which make the cable suitable for indoor, outdoor, underground use, or for flexible connections.
These are the most common cables for fixed electrical installations in buildings. They are suitable for connecting sockets, switches, and lighting points.
This cable is specially developed for underground installation and is recognized by its black, robust outer sheath and an earth wire with earth screen. This type is resistant to moisture and mechanical stress, making it suitable for connections to, for example, garden lighting, sheds, or outdoor sockets. When installing underground, the cable must be laid at a minimum depth and covered, for example, with a sand bed and warning tape.
This is a single insulated conductor used for wiring inside installation conduits or distribution boxes. VD wire is available in different colors for phase, neutral, earth, and switched wires, according to current installation standards.
A flexible and wear-resistant cable, suitable for harsh conditions and mobile applications, such as construction sites, machinery, and generator connections. The robust rubber outer sheath offers good resistance to oil, grease, moisture, and mechanical stress. This type of cable is suitable for temporary outdoor setups.
Although not a power cable in the traditional sense, the coaxial cable is a well-known cable for transmitting signals such as television and internet signals.
The cross-section of a power cable, expressed in square millimeters (mm²), depends on the current running through it (Amps), the cable length, and the maximum allowable voltage drop. A cross-section that is too small can lead to overheating, fire hazards, and unnecessary voltage loss.
The NEN 1010, the Dutch standard for low-voltage installations, provides detailed guidelines for sizing cables. Below is a simplified overview of common cable cross-sections and their typical applications, under standard conditions:
| Cross-Section (mm²) | Typical Maximum Current (A) | Usage and Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| 1.5 mm² | 10-16 A | Suitable for lighting and light electrical devices (such as radios, chargers). Often used on a 16A fuse. This is a standard for fixed home installations. |
| 2.5 mm² | 16-20 A | Suitable for sockets, washing machines, dryers, and other higher power devices. Commonly used on a 16A or 20A fuse. |
| 4 mm² | 20-25 A | Suitable for heavier equipment such as boilers, electric cooktops (if the connection value permits), or as a supply to a sub-distribution board. |
| 6 mm² | 25-32 A | Applied for devices with high current consumption, such as certain three-phase connections (in a 3-phase system) or as a main cable to a small home. |
| 10 mm² and above | >32 A | Used for main connections, three-phase installations, or long-distance runs where higher currents or minimal voltage drop are required. The exact allowable current strongly depends on the cable type, installation method, and ambient temperature. |
To accurately determine the required cable cross-section, it is advisable to consult a qualified electrician or use specific calculation tools. This prevents risks and ensures your installation meets the applicable safety standards.
When installing power cables, important considerations need to be taken into account to ensure a safe and functional electrical installation. These guidelines apply to both new installations and modifications to existing systems.
Cables must be protected against mechanical damage, moisture, UV radiation, and extreme temperatures. This is done by laying them in conduits, routing them through cable trays, or using cables with a specific IP rating and a robust outer sheath. Cables that are laid in the ground must be ground cables placed sufficiently deep with a warning tape above.
Proper earthing of the installation and equipment is crucial for safety. Power cables must be correctly connected to the earthing system. In addition, overload protection (fuses or breakers) and earth leakage switches are required to protect people from electric shock and fire due to fault currents.
Correct cable connections are a fundamental requirement. This includes using suitable wire connectors, terminal blocks, or push-in terminals in junction boxes, or proper connection clips in switchgear. Always ensure connections are made with the power off and wires are properly stripped of insulation. Incorrect connections can lead to transitional resistance, heat generation, and faults.
All electrical installations in the Netherlands must comply with the NEN 1010 standard. This standard includes detailed provisions, including the choice of cables, protection devices, installation methods, and inspections. Professional installers always work according to these standards to guarantee the safety and reliability of the installation.
A rigid cable (such as solid copper wire in VMvL) is mainly used for fixed installations in the home, built into conduits in the wall or ceiling. These are durable and stable. Flexible cables (such as in YMvK or H07RN-F) are more flexible and are used in situations with movement, such as device power cords or when cables need to be routed through difficult bends.
A 2-core cable usually contains a phase and a neutral wire, suitable for devices that do not require grounding (double insulated). A 3-core cable adds an earth wire, which is mandatory for most devices and sockets for safe operation. There are also cables with more cores for specific applications, such as switch wires or three-phase power.
No, a standard installation cable (such as VMvL) is not suitable for outdoor use. For outdoor applications, an underground cable (YMvK-as) or a cable with a robust, weather-resistant sheath (such as H07RN-F Neoprene) is required, depending on the specific installation method and protection against external influences. Always pay attention to the IP rating and the construction of the cable for outdoor applications.
Overloading can be prevented by choosing the correct cable cross-section for the expected current load and by protecting the installation with breakers or fuses that match the cable size and the connected devices. Always check the specifications of the devices and the maximum current that the distribution board can supply.
Selecting and installing power cables requires accuracy and knowledge of electrical standards. We offer a wide range of power cables for various projects. If you have questions about the right cable for your specific situation, our team of specialists is ready to provide expert advice. Ensuring a safe and durable electrical installation is a shared responsibility.