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The 6mm twin core solar cable, with each core boasting a cross - sectional area of 6 square millimeters, is a versatile cable well - suited for a broad spectrum of solar power applications. While sharing some similarities with the 16mm variant, it has its own unique characteristics that make it a popular choice for medium - scale solar installations.
I. Structural Design and Materials
1.1 Conductors
Material: Similar to larger - gauge cables, the conductors of the 6mm twin core solar cable are made from high - purity oxygen - free copper (purity ≥99.97%) and are often tin - plated. This ensures good electrical conductivity, although the smaller cross - sectional area means it has a slightly higher resistance compared to the 16mm cable. However, for medium - distance power transmission in moderately - sized PV systems, it still enables efficient power transfer with minimal power loss.
Stranding: Stranded construction provides the cable with flexibility, allowing installers to navigate around complex building structures, through conduits, and in various rooftop setups. This flexibility is crucial during installation, as it enables the cable to be routed easily in environments where space might be limited or where precise positioning is required.
1.2 Insulation Layer
Inner Insulation: Cross - linked polyethylene (XLPE) or cross - linked polyolefin (XLPO) serves as the inner insulation material. It offers reliable electrical insulation, effectively preventing electrical leakage and short circuits. With the ability to withstand temperatures ranging from - 40°C to + 90°C, and tolerate short - term spikes up to + 120°C, it ensures stable performance in different climates, just like its 16mm counterpart.
Insulation Thickness: The insulation thickness is carefully calibrated to strike a balance between providing sufficient protection and maintaining a manageable cable size. Compared to the 16mm cable, the 6mm variant has a relatively thinner insulation layer, which is appropriate for its smaller overall diameter and the power - handling requirements of medium - scale systems.
1.3 Outer Sheath
Material: Constructed from UV - stabilized, halogen - free thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), the outer sheath protects the cable from environmental elements. It resists UV radiation, moisture, abrasion, and exposure to mild chemicals, ensuring the cable's longevity in outdoor solar applications. The outer sheath also helps maintain the cable's structural integrity during installation and operation.
Color Coding: Commonly color - coded for polarity identification, with black typically representing the negative conductor and red or brown indicating the positive conductor. This color - coding system simplifies the installation process, reducing the risk of incorrect connections, similar to the standard used for the 16mm twin core solar cable.
II. Technical Specifications
Parameter | Details |
Cross - Sectional Area per Core | 6 square millimeters |
Total Cross - Sectional Area | 12 square millimeters |
Rated Voltage | 1000V DC or 1500V DC |
Current Rating (90°C) | 41A per core, 82A in total |
DC Resistance (20°C) | ≤3.08Ω/km per core |
Overall Diameter | Approximately 8.5 - 9mm |
Minimum Bend Radius | 6 - 8 times the cable diameter (51 - 72mm) |
Flame Retardancy | Complies with IEC 60332 - 1 - 2 |
Certifications | TÜV EN 50618, IEC 62930, UL 4703, RoHS |
III. Performance Features
3.1 Power Transmission Capacity
With a total current - carrying capacity of 82A at 90°C, the 6mm twin core solar cable is capable of handling the power output of medium - sized PV systems. In residential solar setups with multiple panels or small - to - medium commercial installations, it can efficiently transmit the generated DC power to inverters or the electrical grid. Although it has a lower current - carrying capacity than the 16mm cable, it is more than sufficient for systems with moderate power requirements, providing a cost - effective solution for power transmission.
3.2 Durability and Longevity
Built with quality materials, the 6mm twin core solar cable has a service life that typically ranges from 15 - 25 years. It can endure harsh outdoor conditions, including strong sunlight, heavy rain, and temperature variations. The cable's resistance to mechanical stress, such as minor impacts and vibrations during installation and operation, contributes to its durability. This longevity reduces the frequency of cable replacements, minimizing maintenance costs for solar system owners.
3.3 Installation Ease
The twin - core design simplifies the installation process compared to using two separate single - core cables. It reduces the time and effort required for routing and connection, and the flexible nature of the cable makes it easier to install in tight spaces. The standard color - coding for polarity and the availability of compatible connectors, like MC4 connectors, further streamline the installation, ensuring a quick and error - free setup, which is especially beneficial for both professional installers and DIY enthusiasts working on medium - scale solar projects.
IV. Application Scenarios
4.1 Residential Solar Systems
For residential rooftops with medium - sized PV arrays, typically ranging from 8 - 15kW, the 6mm twin core solar cable is an ideal choice. It can efficiently connect multiple solar panels on the roof to the inverter installed in the garage or utility room. Its flexibility allows for easy routing around roof structures, chimneys, and other obstacles, ensuring a neat and organized installation. Homeowners looking to increase their solar power generation capacity without the need for a high - capacity cable like the 16mm variant can rely on the 6mm cable for reliable power transmission.
4.2 Small Commercial Installations
Small commercial buildings, such as local shops, restaurants, and small offices, often have solar installations with power outputs in the range where the 6mm twin core solar cable performs well. These cables can handle the power generated by the solar panels on the building's roof or surrounding areas and transmit it to the building's electrical system. Their ease of installation and cost - effectiveness make them a practical option for small businesses aiming to reduce their energy costs through solar power.
4.3 Off - Grid and Remote Area Sub - Systems
In off - grid or remote area solar setups, the 6mm twin core solar cable can be used for specific sub - systems with moderate power requirements. For example, in a remote cabin with a small solar power system, it can connect the solar panels to a battery bank for energy storage and then distribute the power to essential electrical loads like lighting, small appliances, and communication devices. Its durability ensures reliable operation in these challenging environments where access to maintenance may be limited.
In summary, the 6mm twin core solar cable offers a reliable, cost - effective, and easy - to - install solution for medium - scale solar power applications. Its specific characteristics make it a valuable component in a wide range of solar projects, bridging the gap between the lower - power - handling small - gauge cables and the high - capacity 16mm cables.