By iPAC Automation Pvt Ltd. Power cables and instrument candles in Instrumentation and control engineering services What is power cable? A power cable is an electrical cable designed for the transmission and distribution of electrical power. It is used to connect power sources, such as generators or transformers, to electrical equipment, such as motors, machines, appliances, or other electrical loads. Power cables are commonly used in various applications, including residential, commercial, industrial, and utility settings. Power cables are typically insulated and sheathed to provide electrical insulation and mechanical protection. The insulation materials used in power cables include PVC (polyvinyl chloride), XLPE (cross-linked polyethylene), or EPR (ethylene propylene rubber). The sheathing material is usually made of PVC or another durable material that offers resistance to external factors such as moisture, chemicals, abrasion, and environmental conditions.

By iPAC Automation Pvt Ltd. What is instrument cable? An instrument cable, also known as a signal cable or control cable, is an electrical cable used for transmitting low voltage and low current signals in various industrial and automation applications. Unlike power cables that transfer electrical power, instrument cables are specifically designed to carry signals from sensors, transmitters, and other control devices to monitoring, control, and measurement equipment. Here are some key characteristics and features of instrument cables: 1. Signal Transmission: Instrument cables are designed to carry signals rather than power. They transmit low voltage and low current signals, typically up to 24VDC and 20 mA. These signals can include analog, digital, or control signals used for monitoring parameters, controlling equipment, or transmitting data. 2. Shielding: Instrument cables require shielding to protect the signals from electromagnetic interference (EMI) and radio frequency interference (RFI). The shielding helps to minimize signal distortion and noise pickup caused by external electromagnetic fields. 3. Conductor Size: Instrument cables typically have smaller conductor sizes compared to power cables since they carry low current signals. The conductor sizes for instrument cables range from 0.5 mm to 1.5 mm, depending on the specific application requirements.

By iPAC Automation Pvt Ltd. 4. Multicore Configuration: Instrument cables are often available in multicore configurations, meaning they consist of multiple insulated conductors bundled together within a single cable. Each core within the cable can carry a different signal, allowing for the transmission of multiple signals simultaneously. 5. Insulation: The conductors in instrument cables are individually insulated to prevent any electrical interference or short circuits between them. Common insulation materials used include PVC (polyvinyl chloride), XLPE (cross-linked polyethylene), or other specialized insulating materials depending on the application's requirements. 6. Sheathing: Instrument cables typically have a protective outer sheath that provides mechanical strength and protection against environmental factors such as moisture, chemicals, abrasion, and temperature variations. The sheathing material can be regular PVC or other materials based on the specific application needs.

By iPAC Automation Pvt Ltd. Differences between the power cable and instrument cable Power Cable: ● Used for higher voltage transmission, typically up to 400 A and 32KVAC. ● Primarily used for energy transfer in power transmission and distribution, overhead equipment, and other high-power applications. ● Power cables have a thicker and larger conductor size ranging from 1.5 mm to 630 mm. ● They do not require shielding as their main purpose is to transfer power, not signals. ● Most power cables come in a single core configuration. ● The sheathing of power cables is strong, sturdy, and resistant to external factors such as corrosion and high temperatures. ● Due to dealing with high power, power cables generate a large electromagnetic field around them. Instrument Cable: ● Used for a smaller amount of voltage and current, typically up to 24VDC and 20 mA. ● Primarily used for signal transfer in industrial automation and other signal control applications. ● Instrument cables have thinner cables with a diameter ranging from 0.5 mm to 1.5 mm.

By iPAC Automation Pvt Ltd. ● They require shielding as their purpose is to transfer signals. ● Instrument cables are often multicore cables, allowing multiple signals to be transferred simultaneously. ● Control wires in instrument cables do not require the same level of sheathing and often have regular PVC insulation. ● Designed to carry low power, instrument cables do not generate significant electromagnetic fields and are protected from noise and electromagnetic radiation. Benefits of using instrument cable for instrumentation and control engineering services 1. Signal Integrity: Instrument cables are designed to maintain the integrity of the signals being transmitted. They have excellent shielding properties that protect against electromagnetic interference (EMI) and radio frequency interference (RFI). This shielding helps ensure accurate and reliable signal transmission, minimizing signal distortion and noise pickup. As a result, instrument cables enable precise measurement, monitoring, and control of processes. 2. Noise Immunity: Instrument cables are specifically engineered to minimize the impact of external noise sources on the transmitted signals. They provide a high level of noise immunity, making them suitable for environments with electromagnetic fields, radio frequency interference, and other

By iPAC Automation Pvt Ltd. electrical noise. The shielding within instrument cables prevents unwanted noise from affecting the signals, ensuring the accuracy and reliability of measurement and control systems. 3. Multiple Signal Transmission: Instrument cables often come in multicore configurations, allowing for the transmission of multiple signals within a single cable. This feature is beneficial in instrumentation detailing and designiand control engineering services, as it enables the connection of various sensors, transmitters, and control devices to monitoring equipment or control systems. Using a single instrument cable to transmit multiple signals simplifies installation, reduces cable clutter, and improves overall system efficiency. 4. Flexibility and Durability: Instrument cables are designed to withstand the demanding conditions of industrial environments. They are typically constructed with flexible materials, such as PVC or polyethylene, which allow for easy routing and installation. Moreover, instrument cables are built to be robust and durable, with resistance to mechanical stress, moisture, oils, and chemicals. These qualities ensure the longevity and reliability of the cable in harsh operating conditions.

By iPAC Automation Pvt Ltd. 5. Compatibility: Instrument cables are widely used and standardized in the instrumentation and control engineering field. They are compatible with various types of instrumentation and control devices, including sensors, transmitters, actuators, and control systems. This compatibility simplifies the integration and interconnection of different components within a system, facilitating seamless communication and functionality. Insights from Waman Sanap, CEO of iPAC Automation, an instrumentation detailing and designing services.