Solar cables, PV wire stand up to harsh conditions

Oct 22, 2009 4:28 PM

Available in a wire range from 14 AWG to 2 AWG, new photovoltaic wires come in two versions to meet either UL 4703 PV wire/TÜV 2 PFG 1169 requirements or UL 4703 PV wire requirements. UL/TÜV photovoltaic wires are made with low-smoke, zero-halogen (LSZH) materials which do not emit toxic gases when burned. The UL PV wire products use a cross-linked polyethylene insulation and PVC jacket.

Solar cables, in sizes from 18 AWG to 12 AWG and conductor counts from 3 to 9, are available shielded or unshielded. The TC-ER and MTW-rated cables feature a tough and abrasion-resistant jacket to provide robust performance for years.

Both the PV wire and solar cable are designed specifically for solar environments—they are sunlight and oil resistant, endure ozone and UV radiation, and withstand temperatures as low as -40°C and high as +90°C. In addition, the solar cables meet requirements for direct burial without conduit.

The wire and cable are available for quick shipping in both large and small put-ups.

The new wire and cable form the core of Alpha’s portfolio of products for solar energy. The portfolio includes a number of existing products well suited to solar applications:
• Series M and P control cables, ideal for stationary tray application with light
to moderate flexing, are available in conductor counts to 65 and wire sizes
   from 18 AWG to 8 AWG.
• Type 492 slit loom tubing protects cable, simplifying its installation. A full-
   length slit allows the tubing to be slid over cable for easier breakouts and
   flexible routing.
• Liquid-tight flexible PVC tubing and fittings keep cables safe, dry, and
protected.
• Solid bus bar wires, in sizes from 12 AWG to 6 AWG, meet the
requirements of NEC 705.2 for panel grounding.
• FIT® heat-shrink tubing makes it easy to protect, organize, strain-relieve,
and repair cables—with a range of shrink ratios and materials for any
application environment.

For additional information, contact Alpha Wire at 800-52-ALPHA (522-5742), 711 Lidgerwood Avenue, Elizabeth, NJ 07207-0711, or visit the Company's website at www.alphawire.com.