Types of Armored Cables Explained

By Jianyun Cable – Professional Manufacturer of Quality Electrical Cables

Armored cables are essential in modern electrical installations where mechanical protection is required. By incorporating a layer of steel wire, aluminum wire, or tape armor, these cables safeguard the inner conductors against impact, crushing, rodent attack, and accidental damage – making them ideal for direct burial, outdoor exposure, industrial environments, and harsh conditions.

This 2025 technical guide explains the main types of armored cables, their construction, advantages, applications, and how to select the right armored cable type for your project.

1. What Are Armored Cables?

Armored cables are power or control cables with an additional protective layer of metal armor surrounding the inner cores. The armor provides mechanical strength and protection while maintaining electrical safety. Common ratings are low voltage (0.6/1 kV) and medium voltage (6–35 kV), with XLPE or PVC insulation and various sheath materials.

2. Why Use Armored Cables?

• Direct burial without conduit
• Protection against mechanical damage (digging, heavy equipment)
• Rodent and termite resistance
• Improved safety in industrial and outdoor environments
• Grounding continuity (steel armor can serve as CPC)
• Compliance with many electrical codes for exposed or buried runs

3. Main Types of Armored Cables

The most common armored cable types are:

1. SWA (Steel Wire Armored) – Galvanized steel wire armor
2. AWA (Aluminum Wire Armored) – Aluminum wire armor
3. STA (Steel Tape Armored) – Steel tape armor
4. ATA (Aluminum Tape Armored) – Aluminum tape armor
5. Interlocked Armor (MC – Metal Clad) – Continuous aluminum or steel interlocked tape

4. Detailed Comparison of Armored Cable Types

5. Typical Construction of Armored Cables

Standard layers (e.g., XLPE/SWA/PVC):

• Conductor: Copper or aluminum (Class 2 stranded)
• Insulation: XLPE (90°C) or PVC (70°C)
• Inner Sheath/Bedding: PVC or LSOH
• Armor: SWA (steel wire), AWA (aluminum wire), or tape
• Outer Sheath: PVC, PE, or LSOH – UV & weather resistant

6. Common Applications by Armored Cable Type

• SWA: Direct burial, underground feeders, industrial plants, outdoor power distribution
• AWA: Single-core cables (to avoid magnetic heating), corrosive or marine environments
• STA/ATA: Indoor or light outdoor use, less mechanical stress
• Interlocked Armor (MC): Cable tray installations, exposed industrial runs, flexible routing

7. Key International Standards for Armored Cables

• IEC 60502-1 (LV armored cables)
• IEC 60502-2 (MV armored cables)
• BS 5467 (UK SWA XLPE/PVC)
• BS 6724 (UK LSZH armored)
• AS/NZS 5000.1 (Australia/New Zealand)
• VDE 0276 (Germany)
• UL 1569 (MC cable – USA)
• CPR Euroclass (Europe) – Cca or better common

8. How to Choose the Right Armored Cable Type

1. Determine voltage rating (LV 0.6/1 kV or MV 6–35 kV)
2. Calculate load current & future expansion
3. Choose conductor: Copper vs Aluminum
4. Select insulation: XLPE (preferred) vs PVC
5. Decide armor type: SWA for max protection, AWA for single-core
6. Choose sheath: PVC (general), LSOH (public buildings), PE (direct burial)
7. Verify required certifications & test reports
8. Consider installation environment (buried, tray, corrosive)

9. Final Thoughts

Armored cables provide essential mechanical protection in demanding electrical environments. SWA remains the most popular for direct burial and high-impact areas, while AWA excels in single-core applications and corrosive conditions. Selecting the correct armored cable type ensures safety, reliability, and long service life.

For premium armored power cables – SWA, AWA, STA, LSZH, fire-resistant – with full international compliance, rigorous testing, and expert technical support, contact Henan Province Jianyun Cable Co., Ltd. – your trusted partner for quality armored cable solutions.