Multicore cables have become essential for applications where efficiency and performance are priorities. While single-core cables do have their place, the multicore cable combines multiple insulated conductors within a single outer sheath, providing a practical solution that can save space, reduce installation time, and improve reliability.
You might be wondering, what is a multicore cable exactly? This guide explains what they are, how they are constructed, and the advantages they offer when compared to single-core options.
What is a multicore cable?
A multicore cable is a cable containing two or more individually insulated conductors, which are bundled together within a single outer sheath. This design allows multiple electrical circuits or signals to transmit through one cable run simultaneously, instead of using a group of single-core cables.
Each core is insulated with its own layer of protective material, and all cores are then held together by an outer jacket that can include shielding or additional protection, depending on the application. The result is a cable that is compact and easier to manage and install, which is particularly useful for environments where space is limited or efficiency is essential. Multicore cabling is used in industries such as broadcasting, telecommunications, manufacturing, and control systems.
Types of multicore cables
There are variations of multicore cabling, but they all adhere to the same principle of construction: multiple insulated conductors within one sheath. The types of multicore cabling include:
- General-purpose: Widely used for transmitting power or signals in commercial and industrial environments.
- Shielded: These cables add a layer of foil or braided shielding around each conductor or around the bundle, preventing electromagnetic interference and ensuring signal integrity.
- Armoured cables: Incorporate an additional layer of cable armour, often steel wire or braid, for protection against mechanical stress in demanding installations.
- Flexible cables: Designed for applications where the cable needs to move repeatedly or bend around machinery, using stranded conductors and flexible sheathing for resilience.
Multicore cabling is customisable, with the number of cores, conductor size, insulation materials, and outer sheaths tailored to whatever environment they are needed for, from heavy-duty power networks to data transfer and audio precision.
The benefits of using multicore cables
There are several reasons for choosing a multicore cable over a single-core cable. One of the primary advantages of the former is efficiency. Combining multiple conductors into one sheath reduces the number of separate cable runs needed, saving space and resulting in tidier, more manageable installations. Running one cable also saves installers time, reduces labour costs, and speeds up project timelines, resulting in a cost-effective solution despite the sometimes higher upfront cost compared to single-core cabling.
Signal integrity is another benefit, especially when shielded designs are used. Electromagnetic interference and crosstalk can be problematic in sensitive applications like audio, instrumentation, or data. Shielded multicore designs can minimise these issues, resulting in reliable, accurate signal transmission.
Multicore cabling also offers better safety and reliability. Each conductor is insulated, and the entire cable is covered with an outer sheath, which further protects against abrasion, moisture, and other forms of damage.
Do I need multicore or single-core cabling?
The choice between multicore and single-core depends on the application and requirements of the cable. Remember, a single-core cable contains only one conductor, making it simple and suitable for straightforward power distribution. Single-core cables tend to have a lower resistance per conductor and are often used for long-distance transmission of high currents. In cases where using single-core cables would require several separate runs of cable, it can become cumbersome, and multicore may be better suited.
A multicore cable allows multiple signals or circuits to be carried together. This can be useful in situations where multiple connections are required in the same location, as is the case with some control panels, audio setups, or machinery wiring applications. Multicore cabling is less efficient for high-current, long-distance applications, but it is superior for compact installations requiring versatility.
Selecting the right multicore cabling depends on the specific requirements of your installation.
- The number of cores needed: Determine how many circuits you need to carry. Multicore cables can contain anywhere from two to dozens of cores.
- Insulation and sheath materials: Choose based on the environment. Select PVC cable for general use, XLPE for higher heat and water resistance, or LSZH cables for public areas where fire safety is crucial.
- Shielding: Opt for shielded designs in applications where electromagnetic interference could affect performance.
- Flexibility: For moving or vibration-heavy applications, opt for flexible multicore cabling with stranded conductors.
- Customisation: In some cases, a bespoke multicore design may be the most effective way to meet the exact needs of your system.
FAQs on multicore cabling
What is a multicore cable?
A multicore cable is a cable that contains multiple individually insulated conductors within a single sheath. It allows multiple circuits or signals to be transmitted together.
What is a multicore cable used for?
Multicore cabling is used in telecommunications, audio, broadcasting, industrial automation, and many other applications where multiple connections need to be organised and protected.
Multicore cable vs single-core cable?
A single-core cable contains one conductor, while a multicore cable contains several within one sheath. Single-core is often used for high-current or long-distance transmission, while multicore is better for complex, multi-circuit installations.
What is the difference between multicore and multiconductor cables?
Multiconductor simply means multiple conductors are present, sometimes without a common sheath. Multicore cable, by definition, refers to multiple insulated conductors contained within one outer jacket.
Can a multicore cable carry both power and signals?
Yes, some multicore designs combine power and signal conductors, but care must be taken with shielding and separation to prevent interference.
Is multicore cabling more expensive than single-core?
They may cost more upfront, but they save money in installation, space, and long-term maintenance, often making them the more economical choice overall.
How many cores can a multicore cable have?
It depends on the design. Some multicore cables contain only two or three cores, while industrial cables can have 16, 32, or more, depending on the application.
How are the cores in a multicore cable identified?
Cores are usually colour-coded, numbered, or printed with identification marks to make installation and maintenance straightforward.
Does multicore cabling need shielding?
Not always. For power-only applications, shielding may not be necessary. For data, audio, or control signals, shielding is essential to minimise interference.
Can multicore cabling be customised?
Yes, manufacturers like CDC offer customised multicore cabling solutions, allowing you to choose the number of cores, conductor size, insulation materials, and even the colour of the outer jacket to meet your specific needs.
Source multicore cables at CDC
Multicore cables are crucial to modern electrical and signal-based systems. By combining multiple insulated conductors into one sheath, they offer efficiency, organisation, and reliability that single-core solutions cannot match.
From powering machinery to transmitting data and audio signals, the versatility of multicore cabling makes it indispensable across industries. If you require multicore cabling for your project, CDC can help with tailored multicore cable designs to meet your requirements. Reach out to our expert team today to learn more.
