One electrical cable is not the same as the other. If you look in the InElektro webshop, you will see what an enormously varied choice you have. But why are there so many types of electrical cables? This has to do with, among other things, where you want to use the cable, what you need it for, how long the cable should be, the number of cores and how the cable will be loaded. Finding the right cable can be quite a search. Read here what you should pay attention to, the basic rules and tips.
Basic rules for choosing the right cable:
- What do you want to connect? What is its power/tax?
- Do you use the cable indoors or outdoors?
- What conditions is the cable exposed to?
- What length should the cable have?
- Is it a fixed or a moving object?
- How many cores do you need?
- Are there specific wishes in terms of appearance (color of your cable)
A few basic rules explained in more detail
The first question you ask yourself is of course "Why do I need a cable?". For a lamp, coffee maker, garden lighting, washing machine or something else. Next, you need to know what the power of that device is. As standard, devices are fused from the meter cupboard with 16A, so a copper core thickness = 2.5mm2 is an excellent basis.
Cable outside
Does the cable run completely or partially outdoors? Then it is best to buy a ground cable (usually also mandatory!).
For the ground cable, make sure that your sheath is the earth; With a 3x2.5mm electrical cable, you can use a 2x2.5mm2 YMVK axis cable, because the sheath contains your third braided wire for the earth. Want to know more/need advice? Feel free to call our customer service during office hours.
Ground cables are available in all kinds of versions: data/signal/electrical/coaxial cable.
Hang the cable and physical load / lamp in a different location
Do you need an electrical cable in a place, for example in your workshop, where there is physical strain on the cable? Consider, for example, fats and acids, heat or extreme cold. Then choose a cable that can withstand this. An example of this is a neoprene cable or a heat-resistant cable.
Connections for ceiling lamps are often not exactly where we want them. With a VMVL cable 3x1mm2 you can easily create the desired location for your ceiling lamp. Also nice: we have them in different colors.
Example cable selection via the basic rules:
- Step 1: What will you use the cable for? In this example for a washing machine in the shed with a power of 3000 watts
- Step 2: where is the cable laid? The cable is laid in the ground: YMVK axis
- Step 3: what is the length of the cable: 50 meters
- Step 4: 230 volts = 3 wires
- Step 5: for a 16 amp group and 50 meters long, the cable to the shed may be YMVK 3x2.5mm2. You can also opt for a ground cable 2x2.5mm2 YMVK axle
For questions and/or personal advice you can always contact us by e-mail. Our professional team is ready to assist you during office hours and you can also call and chat with us.