EV charging cable guide: make the right choice

15 Jul.,2024

 

EV charging cable guide: make the right choice

Choosing the right EV charging cable is easier than it might seem. Our short guide helps you get the best possible charging speed, durability and user-friendliness.

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What do you need to know?

If you are looking for a single cable that will give you the fastest possible charge at any charging point, there are three things you must know: That you need a Mode 3 cable, what if your car has a Type 1 or Type 2 inlet, and the capacity of its onboard charger.

Get a home charger

The very first thing you should know is that if you haven&#;t already, you should install a home charger. Home chargers are available with fixed cables and with outlets. No matter what you choose, you will need a cable for charging away from home. Read more about why you should install a home charger here.

Choose a Mode 3 EV charging cable

The Mode system goes from 1 to 4, but what you want is a Mode 3 charging cable. Mode 3 chargers are the standard for EV charging and can be used at any publically available charging point.

  • Mode 1 is outdated and no longer used.
  • Mode 2 cables are the standard emergency cables that are delivered with most electric vehicles. They have a regular plug for a standard wall socket at one end, a Type 1 or Type 2 at the other, and an ICCB (In Cable Control Box) in the middle. Mode 2 cables are not meant for everyday use and should only be an option in situations when there no charge point is available.
  • Mode 3 is the modern standard for EV charging cables at home chargers and regular charging facilities. These charge points use regular AC, or alternating current, while fast chargers use DC, or direct current.
  • Mode 4 is the system used at roadside fast chargers. There are no loose Mode 4 cables.

Choose the right Type

In the world of EV cables, Type refers to the design of the vehicle side plug, which can be either a Type 1 or Type 2. These correspond to Type 1 and Type 2 vehicle inlets. A Type 2 charging cable is the current standard. If you have a relatively new car, this is most likely what you have. Type 1 inlets can be found on older models of Asian brands, such as the Nissan Leaf . If in doubt, make sure to check the inlet on your car.

Choose the right amp, kW and phase version

Getting right amps, kilowatts, and knowing if you need a 1-phase or 3-phase cable is often what new EV owners find most challenging. Fortunately, there is an easy way to make the right choice. If you&#;re looking for a cable that will give you the fastest possible charge at any charge point, all you have to know is the capacity of your onboard charger. Use the table below to select a cable with a kW rating equal to or higher than the capacity of your onboard charger. Note that 3-phase cables can also use 1-phase. You can also find and buy the right cable for your car at the Norgeseliten webstore

If you only plan to use the cable at home, you may also want to consider the kW output capacity of your home charger. If the capacity of the home charger is lower than that of your car, you can use the table above to choose a cheaper and lighter cable with the right specification. If it can only charge at 3,6 kW, there is little point in having a 32 amp / 22 kW EV charging cable, at least until you buy a new car.

Choose the right length

EV charging cables are available in different lengths, usually between 4 to 10m. A longer cable gives you more flexibility, but also heavier, more cumbersome and more expensive. Unless you know you need the extra length, a shorter cable will usually suffice.

Choose the right EV charging cable quality

All EV charging cables are not the same. There are several significant differences between high-quality and low-quality cables. Higher-quality cables are more durable, are made with better materials and stronger protections against the strains expected from everyday use.

Quality cables are also better suited for extreme conditions. One thing many cable owners will have noticed is that the cable becomes stiff and unwieldy when the temperature drops. Higher-end cables are designed to remain flexible even in severe cold, making them easier to use and stow away.

Water getting on to the terminals and into the vehicle inlet is another common problem that may cause corrosion and a poor connection over time. One way to help avoid this issue is to select a cable with a cap that doesn&#;t collect water and dirt when the cable is in use.

High-end cables usually also have a more ergonomic design and a better grip. For something you may use every day, usability is worth considering.

Choose recyclable

Even the most durable charging cable must be replaced in the end. When that happens, every component should be fully recycled. Unfortunately, most EV charging cable plugs are water- and impact-proofed through with a process called potting, which involves filling the interior of the plug with plastic, rubber, or resin compound. These compounds make it nearly impossible to separate and recycle the components later. Fortunately, there are cables made without potting and reusable materials that can be completely recycled after use.

Choose the right accessories

Without a bracket, strap, or bag, an EV charging cable can be difficult to store and transport tidily and safely. At home, being able to coil and hang up the cable will help you keep it out of the way and protect it from water, dirt, and being run over by accident. In the car, a bag that can be fixed in the trunk helps keep the cable stowed away and not moving during driving.

An EV charging cable is also relatively expensive and a tempting target for burglars. A lockable docking and storage unit helps you protect your cable from being stolen, while also keeping it away from the floor.

Conclusion

In short, this is what you have to know:

  • Buy a home charger if you don&#;t have one already
  • You are looking for a Mode 3 charging cable. A Mode 2 cable is nice to have as an emergency solution.
  • Check the inlet type on your car model. A Type 2 charging cable is the standard for all new models, but some older Asian brands have Type 1.
  • Select a cable with amp and kW ratings that correspond with or are higher than the capacity of the onboard charger in your car. If you plan only to use the cable at home, also consider the capacity of your home charger.
  • Find a cable length that provides adequate flexibility without adding unnecessary cost, size, and weight.
  • Invest in quality. High-end cables are more durable, easier to use, and often better protected against strains, accidents, water, and dirt.
  • Do your part for the environment. Choose a fully recyclable product.
  • Plan for storage and transport. Ensure that you get accessories that help you store the cable in an orderly way, protected from accidents and theft.

Insulated Wire, What's Protecting Your Cable? - PWC

What is Insulated Wire? 

Insulated wire or cable consists of a non-conductive material resistant to an electric current. It surrounds and protects the wire or cable inside.

What Are The Benefits of Insulated Wire? 

The obvious benefit of insulated wire is the color. While this may seem simple, it&#;s very important, especially in sophisticated wire and cable applications. Colored insulation can help you determine the difference between wires when there are many running together. Designated wires for different applications can help the wired network remain organized.  

Wires that are insulated are also corrosion and crush resistant. Ensuring your wire will last is essential to the longevity of your installation. 

You will get efficient and thoughtful service from SUNUA.

 

 

What Causes Wire to Corrode? 

Chemical exposure, environmental pressure, weather, and flexibility issues can cause the wire to corrode.

Chemicals &#; For many household appliances and underground cable applications, there are harmful chemicals. 

Luckily, Performance Wire & Cable offers HALAR cathodic protection cable. This insulated wire is highly resistant to chlorine, hydrogen gases, and other chemicals that lead to corrosion. HALAR wire is commonly used directly in water and damp environments because of its properties.  

KYNAR insulated cables are also a good choice if you&#;re looking for chemical resistance.

Weather &#; There are insulated wires explicitly made to perform in high temperatures and those best suited for very fridged temperatures. Cross-linked polyethylene, also known as XLPE cables, are perfect for these types of applications. Additionally, insulated wire offers protection against wetness. 

Flexibility &#; If a cable is going to be bent frequently, it must have proper insulation to give it freedom of motion. If not, the wire will not last.

Pressure &#; It&#;s no secret that wires are also commonly used underground. There can be an incredible amount of pressure on the wire from the weight of the earth above it. To maintain maximum performance, wires cannot succumb to being crushed. 

HMWPE cathodic protection cables provide outstanding resistance to crushing and pressure. The wire insulation is a high molecular weight polyethylene material protecting your copper cables.

Why Choose Insulated Wire? 

Not only is insulated wire corrosion-resistant, but it is also cost-effective.  It&#;s better to buy insulated wire than wire that needs to be repaired or replaced. Replacement or repair of wire will lead to service disruption and cost, which is not ideal.  

Safety is essential in wiring applications. Wires carry current that can cause electric shock when touched or cause electrical explosions, shorted wire systems, and more.  Insulated wire is the safest choice.

Insulated Wire, What&#;s Protecting Your Cable? 

There are varieties of available insulations for wire and cable. Insulated wire or cable is coated with a non-conductive material that is resistant to an electric current, which surrounds and protects the wire and cable inside.

Cable and wire insulation prevents the wire&#;s current from coming into contact with other conductors, it preserves the wire material against environmental threats and resists electrical leakage. There are three major categories of wire insulation, each with a variety of styles.  These include plastic, fluoropolymers, and rubber.

Plastics

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)

This is an inexpensive and easy-to-use material. This type of wire insulation can be used in diverse applications. The temperature range is -55°C to 105°C and it is flame, moisture, and abrasion-resistant. PVC insulated wire holds up against gasoline, ozone, acids, and solvents and is safe for medical and food-related purposes as it is odorless, tasteless, and non-toxic.

Semi-Rigid PVC (SR-PVC)A form of PVC cable insulation, this is mainly used as primary insulation and is very abrasion-resistant. Semi-rigid PVC is resistant to heat, water, acid, and alkali, as well as being flame-retardant.Plenum Polyvinyl Chloride (Plenum PVC)Plenum PVC, yet another polyvinyl chloride wire insulation material, is great for use in building spaces behind dropped ceilings or raised floors, which are left open to allow for air circulation.Polyethylene (PE) This wire insulation compound is used most on coaxial and low capacitance cables. It carries exemplary electric qualities, although it is flammable. Many times, this cable insulation is used in certain applications because it is affordable and can reduce the dielectric constant, making it an attractive option for cables requiring high-speed transmission. Polyethylene can also be cross-linked to produce high resistance to cracking, cut-through, soldering, and solvents. PE can be used in temperatures ranging anywhere from -65°C to 80°C. All densities of Polyethylene are stiff, hard, and inflexible. Performance Wire and Cable offers HMWPE as popular insulation for products.Polypropylene (PP)Very similar to polyethylene, polypropylene has a wider temperature range of 30°C to 80°C. This wire insulation is used primarily within thin walls.Polyurethane (PUR) From extremely low to very high temperatures, polyurethane is known for its extreme toughness, flexibility, and flex life. Because of the excellent ratings for chemical, water, and abrasion resistance, this material works well in retractile cord applications and can be a good option for salt-spray and low-temperature military purposes.Chlorinated Polyethylene (CPE)Commonly found in power and control cables as well as industrial power plant applications, CPE cable insulation displays very good heat, oil, and weather resistance. More times than not, CPE serves as a lower cost and more environmentally friendly alternative to chlorosulfonated polyethylene.NylonNylon, very flexible wire insulation, is usually extruded over softer insulation compounds. It serves as a tough insulation, exhibiting strong abrasion, cut-through, and chemical resistance.

    Fluoropolymers

    PFAAlthough more expensive than other insulations, PFA has temperature ratings ranging from 250°C to 65°C. PFA insulated wire is an electrically efficient option due to its low dissipation factor.Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) PTFE is resistant to water, oil, chemicals, and heat that can be used in a wide range of temperatures, -73°C to 204°C.Fluorinated Ethylene Propylene (FEP) Commonly used in plenum cable and military applications, this material is widely used due to its processing characteristics and variety of applications.ETFE Tefzel and ECTFE HALAR Stronger and more flexible than PFA or FEP these resources can become thermoset through irradiation. Foaming ECTFE HALAR and ETFE improves data transmission and reduces weight.Polyvinylidene Fluoride (PVDF) PVDF is also commonly called KYNAR and is used in a wide range of industries due to its low cost. It is flexible, lightweight, and thermally stable, as well as chemical, heat, weather, abrasion, and fire resistant.Thermoplastic Elastomers (TPE)Thermoplastic elastomers consist of a mix of polymers, typically a plastic and a rubber. TPE, usually used in automotive and household appliances, can be molded, extruded, and reused, similar to a plastic, while maintaining the flexibility and stretch of rubber.

     

     

    Rubbers

    Thermoplastic Rubber (TPR)In many applications, TPR is used to replace true thermoset rubber. It has improved colorability, higher processing speeds, and a wider usable temperature range. It also displays excellent heat, weather, and age resistance without curing. TPR is not cut-through resistant but can be used in applications where other properties of rubber are preferred.Neoprene (Polychloroprene)This wire insulation material is a synthetic thermoset rubber that exhibits supreme abrasion, cut-through, oil, and solvent resistance. Neoprene is also known for its usability, long service life and use with wide ranges of temperatures. It is remarkably flame retardant and self-extinguishing.Styrene Butadiene Rubber (SBR)Similar to Neoprene, it has a wide temperature range of -55°C to 90°C. SBR is primarily used to insulate Mil-C- cables.SiliconeSilicone is heat resistant, flame retardant, and can be used in temperatures up to 180°C. It is also extremely flexible and good in many electrical applications where wire/cable insulation is needed.FiberglassFiberglass can be used in extreme temperatures up to 482°C. This wire/cable insulation material is moisture and chemical resistant. Its common applications are heat-treating, glass and ceramic kilns, foundries, and extensive applications in aluminum processing.Ethylene Propylene Rubber (EPR)EPR is typically used in temperatures ranging from -50°C to 160°C.  It is commonly used in high-voltage cables. EPR is also heat, oxidation, weather, water, acid, alcohol, and alkali resistant.Rubber Due to the variety of formulas that can be used to create rubber insulation, temperature ranges vary as well. Some good characteristics of rubber insulation include low-temperature flexibility, water and alcohol resistance, electrical properties, and excellent abrasion resistance.Chlorosulfonated Polyethylene (CSPE)CSPE, sometimes referred to as Hypalon, is resistant to chemicals and UV rays. It works well as a low-voltage insulation and performs at a wide range of temperatures. This insulation material can be found in appliance wire, lead wire, coil leads, transformer leads, and motor lead wire.Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM)Stands up to temperatures of 55°C to 150°C while still being flexible at these temperatures. Has an excellent electrical property as well as heat, ozone, weather, and abrasion resistance.

    Contact one of our wire/cable specialists here at Performance Wire and Cable to ensure your wire and cables have the proper insulation for your application.

    The company is the world’s best electric cable compounds supplier. We are your one-stop shop for all needs. Our staff are highly-specialized and will help you find the product you need.