Commodity vs. Industrial Cables: An Analysis

Cables are necessary for efficient data transfer, power distribution, and communication in this connected world. But not every cable is created equal. Beyond their external appearance, industrial and commodity cables differ significantly.

In this post, we’ll delve deeper into the realm of cables to understand the critical differences between these two groupings and why they are significant.

What does this blog cover?

• Industrial Cables
• Commodity Cables
• How Commodity and industrial cables differ from one another

Industrial Cables are essential for heavy-duty applications such as industrial automation, the manufacturing sector, metals, utilities, the military, transit, and others. They are employed because of their durability, dependability, versatility, and high-performance capacity while adhering to industry requirements. Due to these factors, industrial cables are also more expensive than commodity cables.

Control and Instrumentation Cables: Control cables are used in automated systems and industrial settings to transfer low-voltage and control signals.

Instrumentation cables are multi-conductor cables comprising many conductors that transmit low-energy electric signals. They are made for challenging environments requiring exact control and measurement. They are widely employed in sensors and equipment applications, such as process control and industrial automation. They are protected from electromagnetic interference and frequently consist of coaxial or twisted pair cables. These cables are useful in communication systems because they transfer data or electrical power.

Instrumentation cables come in many varieties, including PVC, XLPE, and single- and multi-pair wires. They are also utilized in the power distribution industry for electrical systems.

Fibre Optic Cable: A fibre optic cable has an assembly similar to an electrical cable and optical fibre for light transmission. Due to the disparity in refractive indices, optical fibre comprises a cladding layer intended for total internal reflection and a core. To preserve the fibre, the cladding in practical fibres is frequently covered in a polyimide or acrylate polymer coating. However, it does not affect the optical waveguide capabilities.

The cable core is then created by extruding individual coated or bundled fibres with a robust resin buffer layer or core tube(s). The number of protective sheathing layers used to make the cable varies depending on the application.

Optical fibre cables are used in the medical field for devices that help doctors view internal body parts, in research in oceanography, geology, and aerospace, and in telecommunication to aid in the long-distance transmission of high-bandwidth and high-speed phone, internet, and high-cable TV signals.

Power Cable: Generally speaking, a power cable is a grouping of one or more electrical conductors secured with an electrical power transmission sheath. Power lines can be buried, routed overhead, inserted permanently as wire within buildings, or left uncovered. They are used in both mobile tools and machines. A typical illustration of an electric power wire is suspended between two electric poles. The three major components of a power cable are insulation, a protective jacket, and conductors. The specifications of these components vary based on the intended usage of the cable.

Flexible Cable: True to its name, flexible wires may bend and twist as much as necessary without breaking. This electrical cable is designed to be more flexible and durable for applications where cable movement or positioning is challenging. They frequently have PVC or neoprene jacketing and insulation to resist extremely cold conditions.

Extreme-flexibility cables are made to endure severe performance conditions and extreme flexing. High-flex cable and wire have a continuous flexing capacity of at least 10 million flex cycles. Modern technology is used to produce these cables, guaranteeing excellent performance even in the most demanding circumstances.

Power generators for building sites, manufacturing equipment, transit systems, communication systems, lighting, other machinery, and mining activities are just a few of the OEM businesses that use industrial cables.

Commodity cables frequently have basic features like standard voltage ratings, straightforward insulation, and lower-quality building materials. Their cost-effectiveness over industrial cables and wires is mostly due to their mass manufacture, lack of complex engineering, and stringent testing requirements to meet safety standards.

 Commodity cables are designed and produced for general-purpose use in non-industrial settings, such as wiring homes and offices. They can be used for standard voltage power transfer, communication, control, and instrumentation.

Commodity and industrial cables differ in material used and construction.

Industrial Cable: Industrial cables are built with precision. Often built with high-quality materials and multiple layers of insulation, they provide the highest possible resistance against environmental changes. Coatings that withstand flames and UV rays are typical components that offer durability and security.

Commodity Cable: Although they may be functional, commodity cables may have been constructed with a different level of accuracy. They might need to be equipped with specific materials and coatings that increase security under trying conditions.

Disparities Between Performance and Goal

Industrial Cable: Industrial cables are designed to endure the harshest circumstances. These cables are resistant to mechanical strain, chemicals, and extreme temperatures. These cables are made to continue working continuously under challenging circumstances.

Commodity Cable: Conversely, commodity cables are more frequently seen in regular sites such as homes and offices. Performance is not a major concern in ordinary, less-demanding applications where they are meant to be utilized.

Industrial Cable: Reliability and signal integrity are essential in industrial environments. These cables need to function consistently, whether carrying data or energy, to reduce downtime and safety risks.

Commodity Cable: Commodity cables may not prioritize maintaining signal integrity. They are frequently designed for shorter trips and less taxing jobs.

Industrial Cable: Industrial cables may have a higher initial investment because of their specific design and durability. However, because they last longer and require less maintenance, they offer a higher return on investment over time.

Commodity Cable: These cables come at a lower cost and are suitable for applications where optimal performance is not the main priority.

Variations in Customizability and Scalability

Industrial Cable: Specialized cable solutions are often required in industrial settings to satisfy specific objectives. Customizing industrial cables to meet environmental requirements can achieve maximum performance.

Commodity Cable: It is difficult to alter these cables for specific use because they are available in standard designs.

The application type is crucial in choosing between commodity cables and industrial cables. Purchasing industrial cables is a great option if you work in a demanding environment where reliability, toughness, and security are essential.

Pioneer Enterprises, the largest distributor of Polycab wires and cables in South India, can help you select a flawless connection thanks to its expertise in the industry for close to three decades. Contact us to learn more.