Understanding the most common electrical cable types and their specific uses is essential for safe, efficient, and code-compliant installations. From everyday home wiring to heavy-duty industrial power distribution, each electrical cable type is designed with particular insulation, construction, and protection features. This 2025 guide covers the most widely used electrical cable types and helps you match them to your project needs.

1. Introduction to Electrical Cable Types

Electrical cable types vary by conductor material (usually copper or aluminum), insulation, sheathing, armoring, and voltage rating. Selection depends on environment (indoor/outdoor, wet/dry), load requirements, mechanical stress, fire safety, and local regulations.

2. Common Cables for Residential Use

• NM-B (Non-Metallic Sheathed Cable / Romex): PVC-insulated conductors with an outer jacket. Ideal for dry indoor branch circuits (lighting, outlets).
• UF-B (Underground Feeder): Moisture-resistant version of NM-B for direct burial or wet locations like outdoor lighting.
• Twin & Earth (T&E): Popular in Europe/UK – flat PVC cable with bare CPC (circuit protective conductor) for general wiring.
• NYM-J: Robust PVC-sheathed multi-core cable common in continental Europe for fixed installations.

3. Cables for Commercial and Light Industrial

• THHN/THWN: Individual thermoplastic-insulated wires for pulling through conduits in commercial buildings.
• MC Cable (Metal-Clad): Armored assembly with THHN conductors – excellent for exposed runs and vibration-prone areas.
• Tray Cable (TC-ER): Multi-conductor cable rated for exposed cable trays in offices and light factories.
• LSZH (Low Smoke Zero Halogen) Cables: Used in public buildings for reduced toxic smoke during fires.

4. Power Distribution Cable Types

• XLPE Insulated Power Cables: Cross-linked polyethylene insulation for low and medium voltage – superior heat and moisture resistance.
• Armored Power Cables (SWA / AWA): Steel or aluminum wire armored for underground or outdoor power feeds.
• Medium Voltage (MV) Cables: 5–35 kV screened XLPE cables for primary distribution in campuses and industrial sites.

5. Specialty Electrical Cable Types

• Solar / Photovoltaic Cables (H1Z2Z2-K): UV- and weather-resistant for solar panel connections.
• VFD Cables: Shielded for variable frequency drives to minimize electromagnetic interference.
• Fire-Resistant Cables: Mica-taped with LSZH sheath – maintain circuit integrity in fires.
• Instrumentation Cables: Twisted pair shielded for accurate signal transmission in control systems.

6. Quick Comparison Table

7. How to Choose the Right Cable Type

1. Determine voltage and current requirements.
2. Evaluate installation environment and hazards.
3. Check local building codes and standards.
4. Consider fire performance and future needs.
5. Consult certified professionals for complex projects.

8. Final Thoughts

Knowing the common electrical cable types and their specific uses ensures safe, efficient, and compliant installations. From simple residential NM-B to robust armored power cables, selecting the appropriate electrical cable type makes all the difference in performance and longevity.

Need high-quality electrical cables for your project? Contact Henan Province Jianyun Cable Co., Ltd. for reliable, standard-compliant solutions.