Instrumentation Cable
Galaxy is a leading supplier of instrumentation cables.
Instrumentation Cables
Galaxy is a leading supplier of stock and custom instrumentation cables. Galaxy can supply various types of instrumentation cable in various AWG sizes, voltage ratings, compounds, shielding constructions, and conductor counts. Galaxy can also recommend the correct instrumentation cable for specific applications.
What is an Instrumentation Cable?
Instrumentation cables are multi-conductor cables that are used in industrial environments, designed for power and signal transmission. These cables are often installed through ducts, wire instrumentations, conduit, and in some cases outdoor direct burial applications. Often times instrumentation cables installed in buildings are required to be plenum rated. Plenum rated cables are cables that comply with flammability and smoke specifications set forth by the National Electrical Code (NEC). Instrumentation cables are primarily UL rated, can be shielded or unshielded, and are offered in 300V and 600V.
Instrumentation Cable Applications
There are many and varied instrumentation cable applications; these include, but are not limited to:
- Industrial Automation
- Factory Control Systems
- Oil and Gas Refineries
- Alarm Circuitry
- Sensors
Galaxy Differentiators / Advantages for Instrumentation Cable
Galaxy can supply instrumentation cables with low minimum quantities and competitive lead times. During the selection process it is critical to understand the application of the end use. Galaxy will help navigate the possibilities and provide the correct instrumentation cable to match the application. If a stock instrumentation cable is not available, Galaxy can assist in the design of the perfect custom cable for the intended application.
Instrumentation Cable Features
Galaxy offers instrumentation cables with the following characteristics:
- Multi-Conductors
- Foil and Braid Shields
- Twisted Shielded Conductors
- UL Rated
- UV Resistant
Instrumentation Cable Materials
Instrumentation cables from Galaxy are available with the following materials:
- Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)
- PVC/Nylon (VNTC)
- Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE)
- Cross-linked Polyethylene (XLPE)
- Chlorinated Polyethylene (CPE)
- Hypalon
Instrumentation Cable Technical Specifications
Galaxy offers instrumentation cable in the following ranges of technical specifications:
- Gauge: 4/0 to 30AWG
- Voltage: 300V – 600V
- Temperature: Up to 150°C
FAQs about Instrumentation Cables
Why choose an instrumentation cable over a standard Mil-Spec or UL-rated electronic cable?
Instrumentation cables are typically chosen because of their ability to withstand harsh and demanding environments. These cables may be exposed to high and low temperatures, chemicals, and other physical stressors. In such cases, an instrumentation cable is the correct choice.
Terminology Notes
There are various terms used in the wire and cable industry related to this type of cable. They include:
- PLTC, which stands for Power Limited Tray Cable. These cables are typically used for applications that have power limited circuits such as an alarm system.
- VNTC, which stands for Vinyl Nylon Tray Cable. A VNTC cable is constructed using THHN or TFFN conductors with a PVC outer jacket. These cables are flame retardant.
- Plenum rated, which refers to the flammability and smoke specifications of a cable.
Instrumentation cable and tray cable are very similar and are sometimes used interchangeably.
Contact Galaxy Wire & Cable for Instrumentation Cable
Contact Galaxy for further assistance with instrumentation cables.