Service Hotline
+86 13564958513
Solar photovoltaic 2 core cables, featuring two insulated conductors encased within a unified outer sheath, are indispensable for the seamless operation of photovoltaic (PV) systems. Engineered to transmit direct current (DC) power generated by solar panels, these cables offer a blend of high - performance, durability, and installation convenience, making them suitable for diverse solar energy applications.
I. Construction and Material Composition
1.1 Conductors
The conductors of solar photovoltaic 2 core cables are typically fabricated from high - purity oxygen - free copper, often with a purity exceeding 99.97%. This premium copper minimizes electrical resistance, facilitating near - lossless power transfer and ensuring efficient utilization of solar - generated energy. A common practice is tin - plating the conductors, which provides an additional layer of protection against oxidation. In coastal PV installations, for example, the tin - coated conductors effectively resist the corrosive effects of salt - laden air, maintaining stable conductivity over extended periods. The stranded conductor design imparts flexibility, enabling installers to route the cables around complex architectural structures, through narrow conduits, or within densely - packed solar panel arrays with ease.
1.2 Insulation Layer
Inner Insulation: Cross - linked polyethylene (XLPE) or cross - linked polyolefin (XLPO) is commonly employed as the inner insulation material. These advanced polymers offer excellent electrical isolation, effectively preventing electrical leakage and short circuits. Capable of withstanding a wide temperature range, from - 40°C to + 90°C, and tolerating short - term temperature spikes up to + 120°C, they ensure consistent performance in various climatic conditions, whether it's the extreme cold of arctic regions or the intense heat of deserts.
Insulation Thickness: Manufacturers carefully calibrate the insulation thickness to strike a balance between insulation performance and cable size. A thicker insulation layer enhances protection but may increase the cable's diameter, potentially complicating installation. By optimizing this parameter, the cables can be easily installed in tight spaces while maintaining stringent safety standards.
1.3 Outer Sheath
Constructed from UV - stabilized, halogen - free thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), the outer sheath provides comprehensive protection for the cable. It shields against harmful UV radiation, moisture, abrasion, and exposure to mild chemicals. In industrial PV plants where the cables may be exposed to chemical fumes and particulate matter, the TPE outer sheath acts as a reliable barrier, safeguarding the internal components and ensuring the cable's long - term integrity. To simplify installation and prevent connection errors, color - coding is standard, with black typically indicating the negative conductor and red or brown signifying the positive conductor.
II. Technical Specifications
Parameter | Details |
Cross - Sectional Area per Core | Common sizes: 1.5mm², 2.5mm², 4mm², 6mm², 10mm² |
Total Cross - Sectional Area | Twice the per - core area |
Rated Voltage | Typically 1000V DC or 1500V DC |
Current Rating (90°C) | Varies by size (e.g., 4mm² core: 32A per core, 64A total) |
DC Resistance (20°C) | Size - dependent (e.g., 6mm² core ≤3.08Ω/km) |
Overall Diameter | Ranges from 6 - 12mm based on size |
Minimum Bend Radius | 6 - 8 times the cable diameter |
Flame Retardancy | Complies with IEC 60332 - 1 - 2 |
Certifications | TÜV EN 50618, IEC 62930, UL 4703, RoHS |
III. Key Performance Attributes
3.1 Efficient Power Transmission
Solar photovoltaic 2 core cables are designed to minimize power loss during DC power transmission. The combination of low - resistance conductors and high - quality insulation ensures that the power generated by solar panels is effectively transferred to inverters, batteries, or the electrical grid. In a 10kW residential PV system, a well - selected 2 core cable can reduce power loss by up to 95% compared to inferior alternatives, maximizing the energy harnessed from the sun.
3.2 Long - Term Durability
Crafted from high - quality materials and constructed to meet strict standards, these cables have a service life of 15 - 30 years. They can withstand harsh outdoor conditions, including strong winds, heavy snow, intense sunlight, and temperature fluctuations. In high - altitude solar farms frequently battered by storms, the robust construction of 2 core cables allows them to resist mechanical stress and environmental degradation, significantly reducing maintenance and replacement costs over their lifespan.
3.3 Installation Ease
The twin - core design simplifies the installation process compared to using two separate single - core cables. Installers can handle the cable as a single unit, reducing installation time by up to 40%. Compatibility with standard connectors, such as the widely - used MC4 connectors in PV systems, further streamlines the connection process, making it accessible for both professional installers and DIY enthusiasts. The cables' flexibility enables easy routing through tight spaces and around obstacles during installation.
3.4 Safety Assurance
Adherence to international safety standards, such as the IEC 60332 - 1 - 2 for flame retardancy, ensures the safety of solar photovoltaic 2 core cables. The insulation and overall construction are designed to prevent electrical leakage and reduce the risk of electric shock. In the event of an electrical fault, the flame - retardant properties of the cable prevent the spread of fire, protecting the PV system and its surroundings.
IV. Diverse Application Scenarios
4.1 Residential PV Installations
In residential settings, 2 core cables are essential for connecting rooftop solar panels to inverters or battery storage systems. For a small - scale 5kW home PV system, a 4mm² 2 core cable can efficiently transfer power. Their user - friendly installation process and reliable performance make them a popular choice among homeowners looking to embrace solar energy and reduce their dependence on the grid.
4.2 Commercial and Industrial PV Projects
Commercial buildings and industrial facilities with large - scale PV installations rely on 2 core cables to handle high power outputs. In a shopping mall with a 50kW PV system, a 6mm² or 10mm² 2 core cable can ensure the seamless transmission of electricity to the building's internal grid or back to the main power grid, contributing to significant energy cost savings and sustainability goals.
4.3 Off - Grid and Remote Area Power Systems
In remote locations such as islands, rural villages, or research stations, 2 core cables are crucial components of off - grid PV systems. They connect solar panels to batteries for energy storage and distribute power to electrical loads. Their durability ensures a stable and reliable power supply, even in challenging and inaccessible environments.
4.4 Solar - Powered Devices
Smaller - gauge 2 core cables are suitable for powering a variety of solar - powered devices, including solar streetlights, water pumps, and portable solar chargers. Cables with a cross - sectional area of 1.5mm² or 2.5mm² can provide a reliable power connection for these low - power applications, enabling their efficient operation.
In conclusion, solar photovoltaic 2 core cables are integral to the efficient functioning of PV systems. Their advanced design, reliable performance, and wide - ranging applications make them essential for the growth and development of the solar energy industry, facilitating the transition to a sustainable energy future.