In modern industry, industrial machines are at the heart of production. So that they operate reliably and securely, The choice of suitable electric cable is essential. A bad cable can cause production stops, overheating, even electrical risks. Yet, Choosing a cable for an industrial machine is not always easy : types, norms, environment of use ... so many criteria to consider.
In this article, We offer a complete guide to choose a cable for industrial machine, According to your sector, your technical requirements and the standards in force.
What types of cables for industrial machines ?
In industrial environments, machines require cables adapted to sometimes extreme conditions : high temperatures, repeated flexions, Exposure to oil or humidity, etc. There are several types of electric cables designed to meet these specific needs. Here are the most common :
1.1. Power cables
These cables are used to supply the machines with electrical energy. They must bear high currents and provide good resistance to mechanical and environmental aggressions. Examples :
H07RN-F
The H07RN-F cable is a flexible rubber cable. It is extremely resistant to mechanical constraints. It is designed for mobile installation in an industrial or outdoor industrial environment. Its thick sheath offers effective protection against abrasion and oil. This flexible industrial cable is ideal for supplying portable machines or compressors.
Nyy
The NYY cable is a rigid pvc sheath cable, Used for fixed installations, buried or indoors. It offers good shock resistance, UV humidity and light. It is an economical cable for standard industrial power supplies. Recommended for fixed engines, Electric cabinets or machine tools.
N2j
The N2XH cable is a halogen -free version, With XLPE insulation (reticulated) and lszh sheath (Low Smoke Zero Halogen).
It guarantees increased fire safety, With little toxic smoke in case of fire.
Ideal for sensitive industrial installations or public buildings with high attendance.
1.2. Control cables
The control cables are used to transmit control signals between the equipment : sensors, contactors, automates, control cabinets. Popular types :
CY cable
CY cable is an armored control cable, With copper braid for protection against electromagnetic interference.
It is flexible, reliable, and ensures stable signal transmission in disturbed environments.
Perfect for automated machines, sensors, or factory control systems.
YY cable
YY cable is a non -armored multiconductor cable, economic, used in environments without major disruption.
Its flexibility makes it easy to install in electric cabinets or simple control lines.
Suitable for basic industrial applications, such as machine conveyors or lighting.
Sy cable
The SY cable is reinforced by a galvanized metal braid, offering excellent mechanical protection.
It is an armored control cable, Robust and durable, adapted to frequent movement or vibrations zones.
Ideal for machine tools, Industrial robots, or dynamic production chains.
1.3. Communication and data cables
These cables are essential for automation systems and industrial networks. They allow data transmission between the different components (automates, smart sensors, HIM…). Examples :
RS-485
Ces industrial cables allow communication between automata, Scada sensors and systems. They are often shielded to avoid any electromagnetic disturbance.
Essential in connected factories or industry projects 4.0.
Industrial ethernet cable (Cat5e, Cat6a)
These armored network cables are designed to withstand industrial environments (vibrations, dust, humidity). Their armor allows rapid and reliable transmission of data.
Used to connect programmable automata, IP cameras, or men-machine interfaces.
1.4. Special cables for extreme conditions
For extreme environments, Some cables offer specific properties :
Silicone cables : support temperatures up to +180 ° C, For industrial ovens or hot engines.
Cerameal silicon cables : Instant resistance at high temperature of the cable in ceramic silicon under flame removal can reach 1000 ℃ ~ 3000 ℃. The upper limit of normal working temperature is 180 ℃ ~ 200 ℃. It is suitable for extremely high temperature scenes and fire safety requirements.
LSZH cables : halogen-free, Little smoke in the event of a fire - used in agrifood factories.
Cable chains cables : Flexible on millions of cycles - perfect for robotic arms or mobile systems.
Each industrial machine has different requirements. The choice of cables depends on the factors such as the required tension, the type of signal to transmit, the work environment and the mobility of the machine etc. You must choose the right cable according to the actual situation of the cable application. If you have any questions, You can contact a professional cable supplier (For example ZMS Cable) To help you recommend the cable that meets your needs.
2.Criteria for choosing an industrial machine cable
2.1. Voltage and intensity
Above all, It is necessary to determine the nominal voltage and the current necessary to operate the machine.
An industrial industrial cable used in low voltage (0,6/1 kV) will not suit a machine on average voltage (6 kV, 10 kV).
Always choose a cable with sufficient electrical safety margin.
2.2. Operating temperature
Industrial environments can involve extreme temperatures, both in operation and at the stop.
A standard PVC cable can support up to 70 ° C, While a silicone or teflon cable resists up to 180 ° C.
Check the eligible temperature range to avoid the risk of degradation or short-circuit.
2.3. Mechanical conditions
Will your cable be set fixed or subjected to frequent movements ?
In dynamic applications (robots, Shaft chains), Favor a flexible cable with reinforced sheath.
Traction resistance, vibrations and twists is a crucial criterion for a moving machine.
2.4. Resistance to chemical agents
In some industries (automobile, agrifood, chemistry), The cables are exposed to oil, to solvents, or in the water.
It is therefore necessary to opt for a suitable sheath : PUR (polyurethane), rubber, or PE.
An industrial hydrocarbon industrial cable is essential in the fatty or humid environment.
2.5. Shielding against interference (EMI)
Machines with motors or frequency variators generate electromagnetic disturbances.
To avoid malfunctions of sensor or control systems, use An armored cable (And, CY, etc.).
Shielding protects your signals and guarantees reliable industrial communication.
2.6. Standards and certifications
Make sure that the chosen cables comply with local or international standards :
the / IEC (International technical standards)
CE / RoHS (European compliance)
UL / CSA (For export North America)
LSZH for sites receiving the public
A certified cable for industrial use limits the risk of non-compliance during an audit or quality control.
2.7. Clutter and installation
Think of the space available in cable paths, Cabinets or sheaths.
Some very flexible cables, low -ray, allow space gain and eased installation.
For complex installations, Opt for flexible multiconductor cables.
Choosing an industrial machine cable is not limited to voltage or price. You have to assess the environment, security, sustainability and compatibility with your equipment.
3.Errors to avoid when choosing an industrial cable
3.1. Choose a cable only depending on the price
This is one of the most common errors. Opt for a cheap cable without taking into account its quality or compliance can cause production stops, overheating or repeated breakdowns.
It is better to invest in a certified and sustainable cable adapted to your industrial environment.
3.2. Neglect environmental constraints
Use a standard cable in a damp environment, fat or high temperature can quickly deteriorate it.
Always check water resistance, oils, chemicals or heat depending on the planned use.
3.3. Ignore the radius of curvature and flexibility
A too rigid cable can crack or break in mobile or compact installations.
For moving machines, Choose a flexible cable with a low radius of curvature (type PUR, chain cable).
3.4. Forget the shielding in disturbed environments
In factories with variators, engines or robots, Electromagnetic disturbances (EMI) are frequent.
Without armored cable, control or data signals can become unstable, causing operating errors.
3.5. Install a cable not in accordance with standards
An unrefitted cable can be prohibited during a quality audit, export or passing in security committee.
Check industrial standards : CE, RoHS, UL, or the specific requirements for your sector (agrifood, railway, etc.).
3.6. Do not anticipate growth or modularity
Some industrial installations evolve or self -use. Installing a too limited cable from the start can impose a premature replacement.
Provide a capacity margin or multiconductor cables to anticipate future needs.
Avoiding these errors allows you to optimize the life of your cables, to reduce unforeseen stops and guarantee the safety of your industrial installations. A good choice of cable, It is a long -term profitable investment.
4. Standards and certifications to know
4.1. CE marking - compulsory in the European Union
The marking This attests that the cable complies with European security requirements, health and environment.
Any industrial electric cable sold in the EU must carry this marking.
4.2. ROHS - Limitation of dangerous substances
La directive RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances) limits the use of certain toxic substances such as lead, Mercury or brominated flame delayers.
Look for ROHS compliant cables to comply with environmental obligations, especially in exported machines.
4.3. LSZH (Low Smoke Zero Halogen)
THE LSZH cables give off little smoke and no toxic gas in the event of a fire.
Recommended in closed industrial sites, Places receiving the public, or sensitive environments (agrifood, tunnels, data centers).
4.4. UL / CSA-For the North American market
UL certifications (UNITED STATES) the CSA (Canada) are compulsory for products exported to North America.
For an international industrial machine, Choose an Ul/CSA certified cable from the start to avoid customs blockages.
4.5. Norms those / IEC - International technical referent
At the norms 60228 (or IEC in English) Defines drivers classes, the flexibility, the section, etc.
It is used as a global technical reference to ensure that a cable respects a recognized level of performance.
4.6. Specific sectoral standards
Some industries impose additional requirements :
Agrifood : Detergent resistant sheaths and vegetable oils Railway : Feu-fucked standards (IN 45545) Nuclear / medical : Reinforced insulation standards, sterility, etc.
Find out about the standards specific to your industrial sector before any purchase.
Practical tip
A good industrial cable supplier must be able to provide you with the technical sheet, conformity certificates and test results on demand.
5. Where to buy an industrial machine cable ?
5.1. Choose a specialized supplier
Not all cables are created. It is essential to call on an industrial cable supplier capable of advising you according to your needs (environment, norms, mechanical constraints, etc.).
Avoid generalist platforms where technical information is incomplete.
ZMS Cable has technical experts capable of directing you to the cables best suited to your requirements.
5.2. Demant a clear and complete technical sheet
A good supplier must be able to provide you with each reference :
The temperature range
The type of shielding
Certifications (CE, RoHS, UL, etc.)
The section and structure of the cable
ZMS Cable provides complete technical sheets to avoid expensive error when installing.
5.3. Buy on stock or tailor -made
Some machines require personalized cables (length, color, connectors).
Look for a supplier capable of offering :
Standard cables available in stock Tailor -made cables for specific applications
ZMS CABLE, more than 30 years of experience in the manufacture of electric cables, maintains a regular stock to respond to current requests.
We also offer a tailor -made manufacturing service, depending on the materials, lengths and specifications that you require.
So, You are guaranteed to receive a cable in accordance with your real needs.
Conclusion
Choosing the right cable for industrial machine is not always easy.
If you hesitate between several types or if you have specific constraints, Do not hesitate to consult an experienced supplier before purchasing.
The ZMS Cable team is at your disposal to help you find the most reliable and economical solution.