What Is SGT Wire?
SGT wire is a single core cable intended for battery-operated systems up to 50 volts. The cable has polyvinyl chloride (PVC) insulation and stranded copper conductors. It's primarily intended for heavy current applications with a range of gauge sizes starting at 6 and going up to 4/0. Available in black and red, the wire meets automotive standards for use in vehicle battery and ground systems.
8 items
SGT Wire Construction
SGT battery cable has a stranded conductor made up of multiple small strands of pure copper. Strand sizes vary from 0.02 inches up to 0.031 inches depending on the cable size. The size and construction of the cables mean you should use cable lugs as connectors. The cable has flexible PVC insulation that’s resistant to automotive oils, fuel, fluids, and abrasion. There's no jacket.
SGT Wire Applications
SGT cable applications include use as starter, alternator, and winch wiring for cars, trucks, buses, RVs, boats, and heavy vehicles using 12-volt and 24-volt battery systems. While flexible, the cable has sufficient rigidity to stay in place when supported by cable ties and vehicle harnesses. Other applications include power and traction systems in 48-volt forklift trucks and golf carts. The wire's maximum operating temperature of 105 degrees Celsius means it's suitable for under-bonnet use in vehicles.
SGT Wire Specifications
The following applies to SGT wire stocked by AWC:
| Conductor: | Stranded pure copper conductors |
| Insulation: | PVC |
| Insulation Thickness: | 0.06 - 0.078 inches |
| Voltage Rating: | 50 volts |
| Maximum Temperature Rating: | 105°C |
| Minimum Temperature Rating: | -40°C |
| Sizes: | 6 AWG to 4/0 AWG |
| SAE Specification: | SAE J1127 for low-voltage battery cable |
| Automotive approvals: | Chrysler MS-3450 and Ford M1L-56A |
Similar Low-voltage Automotive Wires
AWC stocks three types of automotive battery cable; SGT, SGX, AND STX.
SGX Wire
SGX low-voltage battery cable uses cross-linked polyethylene insulation (XLPE). SGX wire has a higher maximum temperature rating of 125 °C compared to SGT wire. It's suitable for use in modern turbocharged vehicles where under-bonnet temperatures are high. The wire's XLPE insulation is tough. abrasion-resistant, and withstands oil, water, and vehicle fluids.
STX Wire
STX wire has similar properties to SGX wire except that it has slightly thinner insulation. This wire is available in a limited range of sizes from 6 to 2 AWG.
Can You Use SGT Wire for Welding?
No, SGT wire isn't suitable for welding. AC and DC welders typically have open-circuit voltages in the range of 80 to 100 volts, which exceeds the voltage rating of SGT cable. Another factor to consider is that SGT wire isn't as flexible and will kink and catch on obstructions more readily than welding cable.