2 core 12v cable - temp rating and insulation

Question

question

Dylan Tucker asked Feb 18, '23

2 core 12v cable - temp rating and insulation

Hi everyone - I’m currently making purchases for my system and a buying cable (2 core 1.5mm for all the 12v work). What seemed like a simple task gas given me a bit of option paralysis that I was hoping for some help with. I’ve read that I need arctic rated cables but these cables are extremely thick such as this (9mm outside diameter which seems excessive for 12v). I then also see sites run by electrics experts who are selling very stock standard 2 core as their 12v option. I’m also confused because the auto electrics in the van aren’t this protected. I’m the UK where it doesn’t get that cold or hold (-10 Celsius is about as cold as it gets and very rarely).

any advice appreciated, thanks for reading

system design

2 |3000

Attachments: Up to 8 attachments (including images) can be used with a maximum of 190.8 MiB each and 286.6 MiB total.

Modifications Space

Node Red Space

Answer 1 · 2023-02-18T20:27:24Z

sharpener answered · Feb 18, 2023 at 08:27 PM

For fixed wiring that will remain undisturbed I don't think you need worry. I have installed ordinary PVC 1.5mm^2 wiring outdoors where it gets down to -8 without any issues.

Where arctic cable is useful is for connections that need to stay flexible, e.g. temporary outdoor wiring for portable appliances and the like. TLC are a bit cheaper than your link £1.01 per meter plus VAT.

2

2 |3000

Attachments: Up to 8 attachments (including images) can be used with a maximum of 190.8 MiB each and 286.6 MiB total.

Dylan Tucker commented · Feb 18, 2023 at 09:29 PM

Thanks! That tlc link is for 3 core but I know what to look for now. I saw this from screwfix but it says it’s 7 strands which seems low - am I right in assuming that?

thanks again

0 ·

Dylan Tucker commented · Feb 18, 2023 at 09:35 PM

Here we are how is this

https://www.tlc-direct.co.uk/Products/CA1dot5F2.html

0 ·

Answer 2 · 2023-02-18T22:45:51Z

sharpener answered · Feb 18, 2023 at 10:45 PM

They are both to the 3182Y spec. I think the "7 strand" description must be an error. Either will do IMO.

2 |3000

Attachments: Up to 8 attachments (including images) can be used with a maximum of 190.8 MiB each and 286.6 MiB total.

Answer 3 · 2023-02-19T06:34:42Z

kevgermany answered · Feb 19, 2023 at 06:34 AM

Also bear in mind voltage drop/heating with thin cable. For some of the runs I needed 4mm and the alternator to battery feed is 10mm.

Arctic cable is meant for the 230V side. You should use 2.5mm three core.

2 |3000

Attachments: Up to 8 attachments (including images) can be used with a maximum of 190.8 MiB each and 286.6 MiB total.

question