Steel Wire Armoured (SWA) cable is among the most vital items of electrical installation in current times, especially used for outdoor and underground purposes. SWA cable is manufactured to deliver mechanical protection and stable power supply under tough environmental conditions. As an engineer, electrician, or interested party of SWA cable, the article below will guide you through all you'd wish to know.

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What is SWA Cable?

SWA cable is an armoured power cable as explained by the swa cable manufacturers whose outer cover consists of steel wires that encompass inner conductors. Armoring provides for added toughness and mechanical strength, therefore for more adverse conditions. It is well suited for industrial, commercial, and outdoor power applications.

Installation of SWA Cable

In SWA cable, there are various layers to which it is robust and operates well. A few of them are:

  • Conductors—Normally copper or aluminium, conductors provide energy to carry the electricity.
  • Insulation—XLPE (cross-linked polyethylene) or PVC covering over conductors to avoid short circuits and for safe operation.
  • Bedding Layer—Padding layer, usually PVC, between insulation and armoring.
  • Steel Wire Armouring - Outer protective layer is made of galvanized steel wires for protection against mechanical damage and outside attack.
  • Outer Sheath—PVC or LSZH (Low Smoke Zero Halogen) sheathing offers extra protection of the cable from the surroundings, like water and chemicals.

Types of SWA Cable

There are several types of different types of SWA cables, which are utilized for different purposes. The most common among them are:

  • Low Voltage SWA Cable—Utilized in 600/1000V domestic, commercial, and industrial wiring installations.
  • Medium Voltage SWA Cable—Ideally used in power distribution networks with voltages of up to 33 kV.
  • Fire-Resistant SWA Cable—It is particularly heat-resistant and fire-resistant to provide a secure power supply in case of fire.

Uses of SWA Cable

SWA cables are used on a large scale by industries owing to their strength and durability. General uses are:

  • Underground Power Distribution—Utilized for underground use to provide a safe and secure power supply.
  • Outside and Industrial Use—Applied in constructions, factories, and sun power systems.
  • Security and Monitoring System—Powered security lights and monitoring cameras in secure and safe ways.
  • Rail and Transportation System—Applied in transportation and rail transport system signalling and power distribution.

SWA cable advantages

There are many reasons SWA cable is the best option for heavy-duty use:

  • Mechanical Protection—Steel wire armoring provides protection from external pressure and mechanical abrasion.
  • Weather Resistance—Chemical, excessive heat, and humidity resistant.
  • Durability—Low maintenance needed and high life span make SWA cable an economical cable solution.
  • High Load Capacity—Can support extremely heavy electrical loads without compromising performance.
  • Versatility—Comes in many applications, from underground to high-rise buildings.

SWA Cable Installation

Correct SWA cable installation is highly necessary to provide safety and effectiveness. Some essential steps used for the installation process are discussed below:

  • Planning and Preparation
  • Define the size and voltage of the cable to use according to the intended application.
  • Follow local safety standards and electricity laws.
  • Cutting and Termination
  • Cut the cable at the right size with the correct equipment.
  • Strip off the outer covering and lay out steel wires with care.
  • The terminations and cable glands were fitted appropriately to the joint created.
  • Cable Laying
  • For cabling underground, dig a trench to the correct level and lay the cable over a bed of sand.
  • Protect by conduit or tape prior to filling the trench with backfill material.
  • Testing and Commissioning Test insulation resistance and continuity prior to energization of installation.
  • Take proper precautions and do good earthing and bonding to the steel wire armoring.

Choosing the Best SWA Cable

SWA cable choosing depends on a number of factors such as:

  • Voltage and Current Rating—Provide the cable with an adequate level of electrical load rating.
  • Environmental Conditions—Consider humidity, temperature, and chemical exposure.
  • Cable Size and Length—Use the best size cable to prevent voltage drop and be effective.
  • Regulatory Compliance—Allow the cable to conform to practice in the industry and safety standards.

Maintenance Tips and Safety Tips

Adopt the following safety practices and maintenance procedures for maximum SWA cable performance and life:

  • Regular Inspection—Check for wear and tear, rusting, and damage.
  • Proper Handling—Refrain from back-and-forth folding or pulling the cable during installation.
  • Safe Connections—Terminals and glands must be drawn tightly so that there are no electrical breakdowns.
  • Safety Standards Compliance—Adhere to electrical codes and standards to provide safety.

Summary

Steel Wire Armoured (SWA) cable is the most critical element of advanced electrical equipment, offering the highest level of security and reliability. Since it is multi-useful, it can be utilized in any area of application, ranging from underground power supply to machine equipment. Its construction, benefits, and best installation methods lead you to utilizing a secure and efficient electric network for any business.

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