The difference between wires and cables in solar panels

Wires and cables are indispensable parts of any electrical system, and many people may think these two pieces of knowledge are different names for wires. They are different and the same in solar panels, the following solar panel manufacturer Findy Solar will introduce the difference between wires and cables through this article.

 

Usually, solar panels are installed on the roof or in a high place, with the solar panels at a 90-degree angle to the direct sunlight. It is convenient for solar power panels to convert solar energy into usable electrical current. Once converted into an electrical resource, wires and cables carry it to the power unit.

 

So how do you distinguish between a wire (Wire) and a cable (Cable)? Although people often mix the two terms in their daily lives, it doesn't change the fact that they are different.

 

Wire

Wire refers to a single conductor (used to connect the components of a photovoltaic system, of which there are various types. Typically, it connects four components: the solar panel, the inverter, the charge controller, and the battery.) , single or solid wires contain a single metal core, while stranded wires consist of multiple stranded conductors. A protective sheath insulates the single wire, but the bare wire is also available. Solid wire types are recommended for static applications, especially domestic electrical wiring. For the same load-carrying capacity, the solid wire has a more compact diameter compared to stranded wire. Selecting the proper type of wire in a solar PV system is critical to its operation and efficiency. Using the wrong type of solar wire may not provide the proper voltage to power the electrical units or cause the battery bank to fail to charge fully.

 

Cables

Cables are composite materials with several wires or conductors held together by a sheath. They can handle high UV radiation and high temperatures and are weather-resistant. Usually, they are installed outside or inside the solar panel. The diameter of the cable varies depending on the number of conductors it contains. Solar cables are classified based on the number of wires and their specifications. In general, there are three types of cables used in photovoltaic systems. DC solar cables, solar DC main cables, and solar AC connection cables.

 

Do you now know the difference between wires and cables in solar panels? If you want to know more about solar panels, welcome to our website. If you need to purchase or customize solar panels, welcome to contact Findy Solar.

 

Reprinted from Findy solar - “The difference between wires and cables in solar panels”