AWC eUpdate Newsletter September 2008
When to Use Cross-Linked Cables Instead of PVC
Extremely high temperatures, continuous flexing, and plenty of stress and abrasion -cables used in
harsh environments, such as commuter railways and military applications, will endure some of the most severe
conditions anywhere! Relying on regular PVC cabling, which cannot tolerate excessive heat, can be
dangerous. There is an alternative: Cross-Linked Cables. Cross-linked cables have greater stability at
high temperatures than PVC cables.
Scientific Content Alert: All plastic materials, including PVC, are made of complex molecular chains
called polymers. In their natural form, these molecular chains are not chemically bonded to one another.
This means that if heat is introduced to the substance, those chains will be weakened and allow flow.
Creating cross-linked bonds between these molecular chains substantially increases stability at higher
temperatures. Other benefits of cross-linked cables include:
- Excellent Flame Resistance
- Improved Durability and Toughness
- Higher Ampacities
- Greater Chemical Resistance
- Easier Installations (Small Diameters, Flexible Stranding)
Cross-linking can be accomplished either chemically or by radiation, the preferred method. The radiation
process uses a strong, direct electron beam (see illustration) instead of potentially damaging pressure
or high temperatures. The radiation method can even be done on small conductor sizes.
Image courtesy of General Cable.
Benefits of Radiation versus Chemical Cross-Linking:
- Greater Cable Flexibility
- Wider Range of Economical Insulation Thicknesses
- Better Electrical Properties - No Chemical Catalyst Residue
- No Separator Tapes - Less Pressure
- Free Stripping
- No Color Change or Fade
- No Water Used
When selecting cables for transit or other applications that endure harsh environments, the important
benefits associated with irradiated cross-linked cables make them a great choice. For a quote on
irradiated cross-linked cables, please speak with your sales representative.
Play Allied Wire & Cable Trivia: The Baby Edition
It's Trivia time again! Spring of 2007 brought wedding fever; the summer of 2008 met Allied Wire and Cable
with a Baby Boom. Five AWC families welcomed new members recently, including a set of twins! The first 5
people to correctly match these babies with the proud Allied parent will receive an Allied Prize Pack
overflowing with goodies.
Answers should be emailed to trivia@awcwire.com or faxed to 484-928-6700.
Please include your full name, company name, and shipping address along with your answers. Good luck!
Parent A:
Mark Berry
PA Sales
|
Parent B:
Kristen Casey
Accounting
|
Parent C:
Mike Reardon
NH Sales Manager
|
Parent D:
Natalie Beers
Marketing Manager
|
Parent E:
Jess Houck
PA Sales Assistant
|
Baby 1: Mason
February 5, 2008
|
Baby 2: Wyatt
February 18, 2008
|
Baby 3: Haylie
April 28, 2008
|
Baby 4: Conner
July 22, 2008
|
Babies 5 & 6:
Sean and Aiden
August 29, 2008
|
And we'd like to send out congratulations to the expectant parents: Stefanie Mascherino (PA Reception)
and Jim Thivierge (NH Warehouse Manager) who are both awaiting December babies, and Emily Johnson (PA Sales),
who's expecting in February.
Look for the answers in next month's newsletter!
Click here to see the answers