In modern electrical and industrial systems, single-core flexible cables play a vital role in ensuring safe and efficient power transmission. With the rapid rise of automation, renewable energy, and smart devices, the demand for flexible, durable, and high-performance cables is growing faster than ever. Understanding the different types, structures, and applications of single-core flexible cables helps you make the right choice for your projects-whether it's industrial machinery, control systems, or household installations.
What Is a Single-Core Flexible Cable?
A single-core flexible cable consists of a single conductor made up of multiple fine copper strands, providing excellent flexibility and electrical conductivity. Unlike solid-core wires, these cables can bend and move without damage, making them ideal for dynamic installations and tight spaces.
They are commonly used in electrical control panels, lighting systems, machinery wiring, and power distribution where flexibility, safety, and performance are essential. Their ability to adapt to vibration, movement, and mechanical stress makes them indispensable in modern industries.
Structure and Key Features of Single-Core Flexible Cable
A high-quality flexible cable is more than just copper and plastic-it's a carefully engineered product designed for performance and safety.
- Conductor: Made of high-purity multi-stranded copper wire for excellent electrical conductivity and flexibility.
- Insulation: Common materials include PVC, XLPE, Silicone Rubber, and TPE, each offering specific advantages in temperature resistance and environmental durability.
Performance Features:
- Exceptional flexibility and bend resistance
- Excellent thermal stability (up to 180°C for silicone type)
- Oil, abrasion, and flame resistance
- Compliance with IEC, UL, VDE, and CE standards
These characteristics ensure the cable performs reliably in harsh industrial conditions and high-demand applications.
Main Types of Single-Core Flexible Cable
This section highlights the most widely used single-core flexible cables, each suited for different applications and environments.
PVC Insulated Single-Core Flexible Cable
- Features: Cost-effective, easy to install, and available in multiple colors for circuit identification.
- Applications: Common in lighting systems, household wiring, and electrical cabinets.
- Advantages: Flame retardant, lightweight, and compliant with standard voltage ratings up to 450/750V.
XLPE Insulated Single-Core Flexible Cable
- Features: Cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE) insulation provides superior heat and electrical resistance.
- Applications: Suitable for industrial power transmission, motor connections, and high-temperature environments.
- Advantages: Withstands higher operating temperatures (up to 90°C) and offers excellent dielectric strength.
Silicone Rubber Single-Core Flexible Cable
- Features: Outstanding flexibility and temperature resistance from -60°C to +180°C.
- Applications: Widely used in new energy systems, medical equipment, and aerospace industries.
- Advantages: Anti-aging, weather-resistant, and halogen-free, ensuring safety and long lifespan.
TPE / EPR Single-Core Flexible Cable
- Features: Thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) or Ethylene Propylene Rubber (EPR) insulation provides superior elasticity and mechanical strength.
- Applications: Perfect for robotics, electric vehicles, and movable machinery.
- Advantages: Eco-friendly, halogen-free, and designed for high-flex movement applications.
Each cable type has its unique advantages, and selecting the right one depends on the environment, temperature, and required mechanical performance.
How to Choose the Right Single-Core Flexible Cable
Selecting the correct cable type ensures safety, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. Consider the following key factors:
- Operating Environment: Choose based on temperature, humidity, and exposure to oil or UV light.
- Electrical Requirements: Match conductor size and current-carrying capacity to system demand.
- Flexibility Needs: For moving equipment or robotic applications, prioritize high-flex types such as TPE or silicone rubber cables.
- Compliance & Certification: Always verify that cables meet VDE, CE, CB, or UL standards for quality assurance.
Common Applications and Industry Use Cases
Single-core flexible cables are found across a wide range of industries, including:
- Industrial Automation Equipment – For control wiring and signal transmission
- Electrical Control Cabinets – For compact and efficient internal wiring
- Renewable Energy Systems – Including solar PV and wind power installations
- Building and Smart Home Systems – For lighting, alarms, and power distribution
Their adaptability and performance make them the preferred choice for both fixed and flexible installations.
How to Purchase Quality Single-Core Flexible Cable
When it comes to electrical safety and long-term reliability, choosing the right supplier is just as important as choosing the right cable type.
At Dongguan Greater Wire & Cable Co., Ltd., we are proud to be a professional manufacturer with over 30 years of experience in producing high-quality flexible cables. Our products are certified with VDE, CE, CB, and many other international standards.
Whether your project is large-scale industrial or customized OEM/ODM, we provide:
- Full product range and customization service
- Professional pre-sales and after-sales technical support
- Fast delivery and comprehensive customer service
Our experienced engineering team ensures that every cable meets your performance and safety requirements-helping you build smarter, safer, and more efficient systems.
📞 Contact Us:
- Dongguan Greater Wire & Cable Co., Ltd.
- Tel/WhatsApp/WeChat: +86 135 1078 4550 / +86 136 6257 9592
- Email: manager01@greaterwire.com