The main difference between armored and unarmored models of medium voltage cables lies in their construction, classification, scope of application, and purpose.
In terms of construction, the medium voltage armored cable has a metal reinforcement layer, usually steel strip or steel wire armor, used to protect the cable from external mechanical forces and damage, while also preventing mice and termites from biting. The armor has a large bending radius and can be grounded to protect the cable. Without armor, cables do not have this layer of protection and are mainly composed of multiple insulated conductors and insulation protection layers, used for power transmission.
In terms of classification, medium voltage armored cables can be subdivided into steel belt armor, fine steel wire armor, and thick steel wire armor, while unarmored cables include various types such as flame-retardant rubber sleeves, power, communication, and fiber optics.
In terms of usage scope and purpose, MV armored cables are suitable for areas that are susceptible to mechanical damage and erosion due to their mechanical protective layer and resistance to external forces, such as direct burial in rock areas, while unarmored cables are mainly used indoors or in situations where they are not easily affected by external mechanical forces.
In addition, the price of medium voltage armored cables is usually 10% to 15% higher than unarmored cables, and armored cables can withstand greater tensile forces and have a longer service life.
