Cable extrusion also known as cable jacketing, cable sheathing or cable oversheathing is an essential part of the cable construction process, protecting the cable from mechanical damage and environmental hazards. Appropriate materials are selected by their performance characteristics and the required operating environment. These might include low and high temperature performance, flexibility, resistance to water, oil or specific chemicals, toxicity – free from halogens, fire reaction/performance and smoke emissions.
Key services
- Any cable extrusion requirement is welcomed, large or small production runs – No MOQ
- Standard lead time: 7 – 10 days from receipt of enquiry including initial consultation and discussions
- Wide range of masterbatch colours in stock – Exact colour matching also available
- 0 – 40mm in overall diameter
- Vast cable oversheathing stock portfolio – multiple grades of: PP, PE, PVC, PUR/TPU, Hytrel/TPE, TPV, LSOH/LSZH, Nylon PA12, PA/11
- Extrusion of existing cables to increase diameter or change material selection
CDC Ltd utilise a vast range of different materials for cable extrusion and cable jacketing purposes, and use state of the art equipment to provide high quality results.
The type of extrusion utilised and the material selected will depend on your specific operational performance requirements.
Cable extrusion is applied at numerous points in the cable design process, with each layer of extrusion or jacketing carrying out a vital function in the overall performance of the cable.
Conductor insulation
Insulating the conductors of a cable ensures that electrical current cannot deviate from its intended route. It isolates conductors from other conductors and outside influences, ensuring that the conductor performs unhampered.
The material and thickness of the insulation used on a conductor determines the maximum operating voltage of a cable.
The material used to insulate conductors is determined by the range of temperatures the cable will be exposed to, flexibility, mutual capacitance, environmental operating conditions and the intended purpose of the cable.
Bedding layers
A bedding layer is a cost-effective ‘filler’ used in certain applications. It can be used to increase the diameter of a cable and improve its overall shape, which is important for non-standard cable designs. Bedding layers can also provide moisture protection and a mechanical barrier between inner and outer conductors.
When cable armouring is utilised, a bedding layer is usually added to the cable beforehand.
Final cable extrusion
Cable extrusion gathers all the components of a cable into a compact unit, providing protection against external damage and physical wear. The material used for a cable jacket is determined by the operating environment – such as temperature and exposure to liquids – as well as the flexibility and mechanical strength required for the cable’s intended application.
Cable jackets are also used for branding purposes,where a company’s logo or name can be printed on the side. This is for aesthetic and, more importantly, health and safety purposes.