Armoured Cable 4mm 4 Core

Description

Armoured Cable 4mm 4 Core: Heavy-Duty Power Distribution

Steel Wire Armoured (SWA) cable is the standard choice for mains power distribution where mechanical protection is required. This 4-core 4mm² cable is specifically designed for three-phase electrical systems, providing a robust and reliable connection for high-demand applications.

The armour layer provides exceptional protection against physical damage, making the cable suitable for direct burial underground, installation in concrete, or use in industrial environments where cables may be subjected to stress. The four cores allow for three-phase plus neutral connections, or alternative configurations depending on the application requirements.

Armoured Cable 4mm 4 Core: Key Specifications

Armoured Cable 4mm 4 Core: Construction Layers

This cable is manufactured with multiple layers, each serving a specific purpose:

Conductors: Plain annealed stranded copper conductors (Class 2) provide excellent conductivity and flexibility. The stranded construction makes the cable easier to handle and terminate compared to solid conductors .

Insulation: Cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE) insulation surrounds each conductor. XLPE offers superior thermal stability, higher current ratings, and better resistance to environmental stress compared to traditional PVC insulation .

Bedding: An extruded PVC layer surrounds the assembled cores, providing a smooth surface for the armour application and additional insulation .

Armour: A layer of galvanised steel wires provides exceptional mechanical protection. This armour allows the cable to be buried directly underground, embedded in concrete, or installed in areas where physical damage is a risk. The armour can also be used as a Circuit Protective Conductor (CPC) or earth continuity conductor .

Outer Sheath: A black PVC outer sheath provides protection against moisture, chemicals, and UV exposure, making the cable suitable for outdoor and underground installation .

Armoured Cable 4mm 4 Core: Core Identification

The four cores are colour-coded for easy identification during installation:

• Brown (Live 1 / L1)

• Black (Live 2 / L2)

• Grey (Live 3 / L3)

• Blue (Neutral / N)

This standard colour coding ensures correct connection to three-phase distribution boards, switchgear, and equipment.

Armoured Cable 4mm 4 Core: Applications

This versatile cable is suitable for numerous demanding applications:

Three-Phase Power Supply: Ideal for supplying three-phase power to industrial machinery, commercial equipment, and large motor installations.

Outbuildings: Providing mains power to detached garages, workshops, garden rooms, and home offices where underground burial is required .

Industrial Installations: Power distribution within factories, warehouses, and industrial plants where cables may be exposed to mechanical stress .

Commercial Developments: Supplying power to lighting columns, signs, and external equipment in retail parks and commercial complexes.

Underground Circuits: Direct burial for street lighting, external power distribution, and connections between buildings .

Renewable Energy: Connecting solar arrays, wind turbines, and associated power distribution equipment.

Agricultural Applications: Powering farm buildings, outbuildings, and agricultural equipment where cables may be exposed to environmental stress.

Armoured Cable 4mm 4 Core: Current Ratings

The current-carrying capacity depends on installation method:

These ratings are typical and may vary based on ambient temperature, grouping with other cables, and specific installation conditions. Always consult current regulations for final sizing.

Armoured Cable 4mm 4 Core: Installation Considerations

Bending Radius: The minimum bending radius is typically 8 times the overall diameter . For a cable of approximately 16mm diameter, this equates to a minimum bend radius of around 128mm.

Cable Glands: Termination requires appropriate SWA cable glands (typically BW20 for indoor use or CW20 for outdoor/weatherproof installations) . These glands secure the armour and provide earth continuity.

Cable Cleats: For longer runs, cable cleats (typically Size 7) should be used to support the cable and prevent movement .

Earthing: The steel wire armour must be correctly earthed at at least one end to provide earth continuity and safety. The armour can serve as a CPC .

Temperature: Avoid installation below 0°C as the PVC sheath may become stiff and prone to cracking .

Armoured Cable 4mm 4 Core: Quality and Compliance

This cable is manufactured to meet rigorous international standards:

• BS5467: Specification for thermosetting insulated armoured cables

• BS EN 60228: Conductors of insulated cables

• IEC 60502: Power cables with extruded insulation

• IEC 60332-1-2: Flame retardant properties

• BASEC Approval: Many cables carry BASEC approval for assured quality

Armoured Cable 4mm 4 Core: Availability

This cable is typically available in various lengths:

• Per metre: Cut to your exact requirements

• 50m drums: For medium-sized projects

• 100m drums: Standard reel size for larger installations

• 500m drums: For bulk supply to contractors

When ordering cut lengths, you will receive one continuous piece of cable, not multiple sections.

Armoured Cable 4mm 4 Core: Storage and Handling

Store the cable in a clean, dry environment away from direct sunlight and chemicals that could degrade the PVC. When handling, avoid sharp bends and ensure the cable is not kinked or twisted. Use appropriate cable rollers when pulling into trenches to prevent sheath damage.

When installed correctly with appropriate glands, cleats, and terminations, Armoured Cable 4mm 4 Core provides a safe, durable, and long-lasting solution for three-phase power distribution in the most demanding environments.