What is the Difference Between XLPE Cable and PVC Cable

XLPE cables (cross-linked polyethylene cables) and polyvinyl chloride cables (PVC cables) have significant differences in multiple aspects, mainly reflected in material properties, application environments, and safety characteristics. The following is a detailed analysis of the differences between the two.

1、 Performance of XLPE Cable Material

Heat resistance:

XLPE cable: It has excellent heat resistance, with a long-term operating temperature of up to 90 ℃, an overload temperature of 130 ℃, and a short-circuit temperature (5 seconds) of up to 250 ℃. This excellent heat resistance enables XLPE cables to operate stably in high temperature environments, extending the service life of the cable.

PVC cable: Although PVC material has good electrical and mechanical properties, its thermal stability is poor and it is easily affected by high temperatures. The long-term working temperature of PVC cables is relatively low, generally not exceeding 70 ℃.

Insulation performance:

XLPE cable: maintains the good insulation performance of PE and further improves the insulation resistance. The tangent value of its dielectric loss angle is very small and not greatly affected by temperature, ensuring the efficiency of the cable in transmitting electrical energy.

PVC cable: It also has good insulation performance, but its insulation performance may be affected in high temperature or harsh environments, resulting in a decrease in insulation resistance.

Mechanical properties:

XLPE cable: Due to the cross-linking process, the hardness, stiffness, wear resistance, and impact resistance of XLPE cables have been improved, and it can withstand greater mechanical stress.

PVC cable: Although it also has certain mechanical properties, its wear resistance and impact resistance may be slightly inferior to XLPE cable.

Chemical stability:

XLPE cable: It has strong acid, alkali, and oil resistance, and its combustion products are mainly water and carbon dioxide. It has low environmental hazards and meets modern fire safety requirements.

PVC cable: Although it also has a certain degree of corrosion resistance, it releases toxic HCL smoke during combustion, which poses a threat to the environment and human health. Therefore, it cannot be used in environments with low toxicity fire prevention requirements.

2、 XLPE Cable Application Environment

XLPE cable: Due to its excellent performance, it is widely used in high-voltage, high-temperature, or harsh environments such as power systems and nuclear power plants. Its excellent heat resistance and electrical performance make XLPE cables the preferred choice for these occasions.

PVC cables: Due to their affordability and suitability for general environments, PVC cables are commonly used in general lighting and socket circuits in household electrical systems. But in high temperatures or harsh environments, its performance may be limited.

3、 XLPE Cable Safety Characteristics

XLPE cable: Due to its good heat resistance and insulation performance, as well as excellent mechanical and chemical stability, XLPE cable is safer and more reliable during operation, reducing the risk of safety accidents caused by cable failures.

PVC cables: In high temperature or harsh environments, the insulation and mechanical properties of PVC cables may decrease, increasing the risk of cable failures and safety accidents.

In summary, XLPE cables and polyvinyl chloride cables have significant differences in material properties, application environments, and safety characteristics. When selecting cables, comprehensive consideration should be given to specific application scenarios and requirements.

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