Cable and Wire Key Terms

Study common cable and wire terminology to get the right parts for the job

By Denise Ryan

Whether you need industrial cable and wire for power, data or security applications, familiarizing yourself with the common terms and specifications will ensure you get the proper cable or electrical wiring for your needs. Knowing common terms like “flexible adapters,” “flex cable” and “halogen free,” will help you communicate with vendors or distributors to get the right wiring for the specific job.

Flex cable

Your application may require a dependable flex cable that accounts for cable movement while ensuring the proper operation throughout the life of the cable. Look for versions specifically designed to withstand the type of torsion or bending that it will face.
Try: See illustrations of bending, rolling, torsional and variable flex cable designs, along with applications and descriptions, at CM Corporation.

Teflon wire

Teflon wire, which is wire and cable wrapped in a Teflon jacket, can withstand high temperature jobs like appliance wiring or electronics applications. Whether the wire has a rating for 250, 600 or 1000 volts, it's typically safe for use in conditions up to 200 degrees Celsius.
Try: View Teflon wire styles and learn more about their heat resistance and applications through Wesbell Wire and Cable.

Halogen free cable

If you'll be using cable in potentially flammable areas, consider halogen free cable to avoid toxic fumes should the cable burn. Halogen free cables are also eco-friendly, producing a lower carbon output than other versions.
Try: Find halogen free single conductor cable, control cable, data cable and motor connection cables at AWC Wire.

Wire cutter

Contractors working with industrial cable or electrical wire will require a wire cutter to trim everything from insulated wires to coated cables. Some models feature the ability to cut through several wires at once to shorten preparation time.
Try: Find specifications and operations for wire cutter and wire stripper models through Wenco Products.

Cable clips

Keep a variety of cables positioned accurately and organized for easy access by affixing them with cable clips. Clips can also keep cables and wires from tangling, bending and crimping.
Try: See a selection of cable clip styles, along with other organizing accessories like cable clamps, straps, cable ties and surface mounts, at Cable Wholesale.

Flexible adapters

Organize and increase the efficiency of fiber optic cables with flexible adapters that connect each cable to the proper port. Flexible adapters allow you to route individual cables from a variety of directions without crimping or bending.
Try: Get additional information, including photos and specifications, on flexible adapter styles through Fiber Optic Cables.