Plastic Coated Wire and Cable Key Terms

Become familiar with plastic coated wire and cable key terms

By Denise Brown

From electrical wiring to computer components, plastic coated wire and cable is everywhere. Because there are different coatings for different applications, it’s important that you buy the right plastic coatings for your wiring needs. You should have a good understanding of plastic coated wire and cable key terms. As you read this guide, you'll learn about some of the components of these types of wiring and cable products.

Plastic resins

The manufacturer mixes plastic resins in various combinations to give plastic coated wire different strengths and properties. Resin is the basic component of plastic.
Try: Plasticx Universe has a list of plastic resins, with links to companies that manufacture each type, along with organizations and informational resources for people who want to learn more.

Plasticizers

A plasticizer is a compound inserted into the plastic mixture to give the plastic its flexibility. This is good for plastic coated cable and wire that needs to fit into tight spots. Plasticizers also make the plastic impact- and abrasion-resistant.
Try: Learn more about plasticizers at Tooling U.

Stabilizers

Stabilizers are the part of the plastic mix that provides heat and UV damage resistance. Stabilizers are responsible for keeping the plastics from degrading rapidly.
Try: You can find information about plastic stabilizers at IndiaMART.

Flame retardants

Flame retardants in a plastic compound prevent the spread of fire in plastic coated wiring. If the wiring does catch on fire, the flame retardants reduce the amount of smoke and pollutants released into the atmosphere.
Try: You can see flame retardant plastic coated wire and cable at Continental Cable.

Filler

Filler is often used in a plastic resin mix to cut back on the costs of using petroleum-based products. Fillers can be made from a variety of materials. Scientists continue to explore the possibility of using different renewable sources as fillers.
Try: The United States Department of Agriculture is exploring ways to use corn by-products as filler.

Extrusion

Extrusion is the process used to make plastic coatings. Extrusion machines force thermoplastics through a die, which shapes them into the desired dimensions.
Try: The Spiratex company can manufacture custom wire coating using its extrusion machines. It also has a selection of standard tubing products.