When it comes to electrical installations, choosing the right cable is one of the most important steps to ensure safety, efficiency, and long-term reliability. Among the many cable types available, the Twin and Earth TPS cable is one of the most widely used for residential, commercial, and even light industrial applications. But when you need to power larger appliances or high-demand circuits, one question comes up again and again: how much current can a 6mm Twin and Earth TPS cable actually carry?
In this article, we will explore what a Twin and Earth TPS cable is, what it's used for, what factors affect its performance, and most importantly, how much load a 6mm TPS electrical cable can safely handle. Along the way, we'll provide practical examples, comparisons, and professional insights to help you make the right decision for your project.
What Is 6mm Twin and Earth TPS Cable?
The 6mm Twin and Earth TPS Cable is a widely used low-voltage fixed wiring cable within the TPS (Thermoplastic Sheathed) family. Its name clearly reflects its structure and function: the "Twin" refers to the two main insulated conductors, typically used as the live and neutral wires, while the "Earth" refers to the additional grounding conductor, which may be bare copper or covered with a green/yellow sheath, ensuring enhanced electrical safety. The "6mm" designation indicates that the cross-sectional area of the main conductors is 6 square millimeters, giving the cable a higher current-carrying capacity that makes it suitable for circuits powering heavy-duty appliances. The outer thermoplastic sheath provides durability, insulation, and resistance to wear, making it a reliable choice for a variety of electrical installations.
With a typical voltage rating of 450/750V, the 6mm Twin and Earth TPS Cable is designed for safe and efficient use in residential, commercial, and industrial settings. It is commonly applied in high-power circuits, such as those supplying electric water heaters, ovens, cooktops, air conditioners, and other appliances that require stable, higher current delivery. Thanks to its larger conductor size, this cable offers reduced heat generation, excellent durability, and reliable performance under continuous load, making it a trusted option for electricians, contractors, and end users alike.
haw Does It Do and Why Is It Important?
The purpose of a TPS cable is to provide safe and stable current flow to different appliances, sockets, and fixtures. For example, a smaller 1.5mm² cable may be perfectly adequate for lighting circuits, while 2.5mm² is often used for socket outlets powering televisions, laptops, or kitchen appliances. Larger sizes such as 4mm² can handle cooktops or hot water systems, and the 6mm² Twin and Earth TPS cable is the go-to option for ovens, induction cooktops, or even small sub-boards that need higher current delivery. In every case, the inclusion of the earth conductor ensures added safety by reducing the risk of electric shock during faults.
Factors That Affect the Current-Carrying Capacity
The amount of current a TPS cable can carry isn't fixed-it depends on several environmental and installation conditions. For instance:
- Ambient temperature: Higher temperatures reduce a cable's ability to carry current safely.
- Installation method: A cable clipped directly to a wall dissipates heat better than one buried under insulation.
- Cable grouping: When multiple cables are installed together, heat builds up, reducing current capacity.
- Ventilation and spacing: Good airflow around a cable helps maintain safe operating temperatures.
That's why electricians always refer to international standards such as IEC, AS/NZS, or BS guidelines when determining the safe current load for a specific cable size.
How Much Current Can a 6mm Twin and Earth TPS Cable Carry?
Under typical conditions, a 6mm Twin and Earth TPS cable can safely carry between 35 and 40 amps of current. This makes it a practical choice for demanding household and light commercial applications. For example, a modern induction cooktop that operates continuously at high power levels will perform reliably on a 6mm TPS cable. Similarly, electric ovens, which may draw over 30 amps when operating at full load, require this cable size to prevent overheating or voltage drop. In workshops or garages where a small sub-board is needed to power multiple tools, the 6mm cable again proves to be an excellent solution.
Comparison of Different TPS Cable Sizes and Their Applications
To better understand where the 6mm Twin and Earth TPS cable stands, let's compare it with other common sizes:
| Cable Size (mm²) | Approx. Current Capacity (Amps) | Typical Applications |
|---|---|---|
| 1.5mm² | 10–15A | Lighting circuits, small appliances, low-power outlets |
| 2.5mm² | 18–25A | General-purpose sockets, small air conditioners, power tools |
| 4mm² | 30–35A | Electric cooktops, larger air conditioners, hot water systems |
| 6mm² | 35–40A | Ovens, induction cooktops, heavy-duty appliances, sub-boards |
From this table, it becomes clear why a 6mm TPS cable is often the preferred choice for kitchens and utility areas. It provides the balance between higher current capacity and safety without requiring oversized conductors.
How to Choose the Right Cable Size
The choice of cable size depends on the load requirements of your installation as well as the conditions in which the cable will be installed. A homeowner looking to install a new oven must consider that it requires a continuous supply of 32 amps, which makes 6mm TPS cable the ideal match. In workshops or commercial spaces where multiple devices may run at once, choosing a larger cable helps prevent overloads and maintains stable performance. Even for outdoor applications, where cables often run over longer distances, a thicker cable reduces the risk of voltage drop and keeps efficiency high.
Points to Keep in Mind
Using the right cable is only part of the equation. It is equally important to ensure proper installation and operation. Overloading a circuit with too many appliances can cause overheating, while incorrect installation may lead to dangerous heat accumulation. Good ventilation and correct termination of the earth conductor are essential. Most importantly, cables should always comply with recognized safety standards such as IEC, AS/NZS, and BS to guarantee both safety and longevity.
Why Partner with Dongguan Greater Wire & Cable Co., Ltd.?
At Dongguan Greater Wire & Cable Co., Ltd., we are dedicated to producing cables that combine performance, safety, and durability. Every cable is designed and manufactured in full compliance with international standards, including IEC, AS/NZS, and BS. We subject our products to rigorous testing for voltage resistance, flame retardancy, and bending endurance, ensuring they remain reliable even under challenging installation environments.
Beyond supplying standard sizes, we also offer flexible customization services. Customers can request specific colors, lengths, or packaging styles to meet different market and project requirements. Our factory, covering over 50,000 square meters and equipped with advanced automation systems, allows us to maintain short delivery times and a stable supply chain. With more than 50 authoritative certifications and exports to over 80 countries worldwide-including Australia, the Middle East, and beyond-we are a trusted global partner.
Equally important, our professional customer service team is available 24/7 to provide expert guidance in cable selection, helping you find the most suitable solution for your needs.
A 6mm Twin and Earth TPS cable has the capacity to carry around 35 to 40 amps, making it ideal for powering ovens, induction cooktops, and other heavy-duty appliances. By understanding what Twin and Earth TPS cables are, how they function, and what factors influence their performance, you can make better-informed choices for your electrical installations. With the right guidance and reliable products, your projects will not only run smoothly but also meet the highest standards of safety.
For high-quality TPS cables that combine precision, compliance, and trustworthiness, look no further than Dongguan Greater Wire & Cable Co., Ltd.
Contact us today:
Tel/WhatsApp/Wechat: +86 135 1078 4550 / +86 136 6257 9592
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