Differences of PVC Vs. Silicon Test Lead Cables

06 Jan.,2025

 

Differences of PVC Vs. Silicon Test Lead Cables

Complete Guide: PVC Vs. Silicone Test Lead Cables

There are many different variations of electrical cable for different electrical requirements. Whether it's the cable size/gauge, voltage rating or insulation material, these variables influence cable quality and performance for a specific electrical application. This guide aims to explain the differences between these popular insulating materials. Discover what test lead cable is best for your intended purpose with this cable insulation guide. 

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1 - What is PVC Cable Insulation?

2 - What is Silicone Cable Insulation?

3 - What Are The Advantages and Disadvantages of PVC Test Lead Cable?

4 - What Are The Advantages and Disadvantages of Silicone Test Lead Cable?

5 - Differences Between PVC and Silicone Cable Insulation

6 - Summary

If you want to learn more, please visit our website Rubber Insulated Cable.

7 - Warwick Test Supplies Recommended Cable

1 - What is PVC Cable Insulation?

2 - What is Silicone Cable Insulation?

3 - PVC Test Leads

Advantages Of PVC Test Lead Cables

PVC cables are traditionally the most popular cable type for electrical applications as they provide durable performance and longevity (25-30 years working life) at a low cost. PVC insulation is highly resistant to foreign materials, and static electricity. The hard nature of the insulation material can reduce cable manoeuvrability and flexibility.

  • PVC is relatively low cost and available in a wide range of colours
  • PVC is durable and offers longevity
  • PVC is resistant to; chemicals, corrosion, impact, abrasion and weathering
  • PVC is Static Electricity proof. Leads easily kept clean.
  • PVC test leads typically feature a white internal insulation and coloured external insulation. Easy to spot cable damage.

Disadvantages Of PVC Test Lead Cables

Despite PVC insulated cables traditionally being the most popular cable type, they do have some drawbacks. PVC cable is not as flexible as silicone cable. This can be an important factor when cabling is in enclosed and poorly accessible locations. Cable routing and testing can be easier to perform with the highly flexible silicone cable type. PVC's second noticeable disadvantage is a lower resistant to heat (-40 to 105°C) than Silicone. Accidental scorch damage from soldering in manufacture or excess current and resistance on live PVC cables can result in heat marking of the PVC or in its worst case fire risk.

  • PVC is not as 'flexible' as Silicone cables.
  • PVC has a lower heat resistance compared to Silicone cables. 

4 - Silicone Test Lead Cables

Advantages of Silicone cables

Silicone insulated cables have an outstanding thermal range of -90°C to 200°C+. This temperature range demonstrates it's greater resistance to heat than PVC insulated cables. Silicone test leads offer superior manoeuvrability and flexibility than the PVC alternative.

        • Silicone insulated cables offer the highest manoeuvrability and cable flexibility
        • Silicone insulation offers very high heat resistance 
        • Silicone is resistant against oils and solvents

Disadvantages of Silicone Cables

5 - Difference Between PVC and Silicone Cables

6 - Summary

It&#;s clear from the outset that both cable insulation types offer good performance for test lead cable. However, like any electrical component each cable insulator has its advantages and disadvantages. Cable performance heavily depends on what cable type is used in a specific electrical application. The characteristics of the cables are different and so are the scenarios they&#;re best suited to. Unfortunately, it's not as simple as a &#;one type fits all&#; approach. Warwick Test Supplies would advise matching cable characteristics with the intended electrical application. Contact Us if you&#;re unsure and we&#;ll advise where possible.

7 - Warwick Test Supplies Recommended Cables

Here at Warwick Test Supplies we manufacture a wide range of test cables for various applications. Over the years we have trialled and tested many leads. We highly rate and recommend the three test leads below, all of which offer; durability, longevity and good value for money. 

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