Service Hotline
+86 13564958513
I. Product Overview
The 0.5mm² twin core solar cable features two insulated conductors, each with a cross - sectional area of 0.5 square millimeters, encased within a single outer sheath. Unlike larger - gauge solar cables designed for high - power applications, this compact cable is engineered for low - current direct current (DC) power transmission. Its small size makes it ideal for scenarios where space is limited, such as in miniaturized solar - powered devices, small - scale residential add - on systems, or intricate wiring setups where flexibility and a narrow profile are crucial.
II. Structure and Materials
2.1 Conductor
Material: Constructed from high - purity oxygen - free copper (purity ≥99.97%), the conductors are often tinned to enhance corrosion resistance. Despite the small cross - sectional area, the high - quality copper ensures acceptable electrical conductivity for low - power applications. The tin coating protects the copper from oxidation, maintaining stable performance even in outdoor or humid environments.
Stranding: Usually 采用细绞合结构 (finely stranded structure). This design maximizes flexibility, allowing the cable to be easily routed through tight spaces, around sharp corners, and in confined enclosures without risking damage to the conductors.
2.2 Insulation Layer
Inner Insulation: Cross - linked polyethylene (XLPE) or cross - linked polyolefin (XLPO) is commonly used as the inner insulation material. Even with the limited space, these materials provide reliable electrical insulation, effectively preventing electrical leakage and short circuits. They also offer good thermal stability, enabling the cable to operate within a temperature range of approximately - 40°C to + 90°C, suitable for most general - purpose outdoor and indoor solar - related applications.
Insulation Thickness: Carefully optimized to balance insulation effectiveness and overall cable diameter. The thin yet durable insulation layer ensures adequate protection while keeping the cable as compact as possible.
2.3 Outer Sheath
Material: Composed of UV - stabilized, halogen - free thermoplastic elastomer (TPE). This outer sheath provides essential protection against environmental factors. It resists UV radiation, moisture, and mild abrasion, ensuring the cable's longevity in outdoor installations. The sheath's flexibility also complements the inner conductors' flexibility, facilitating easy installation.
Color Coding: Typically color - coded for polarity identification. For instance, a black outer sheath may represent the negative conductor, while a white or gray sheath could signify the positive conductor, simplifying correct connection during installation in small - scale systems.
III. Technical Specifications
Parameter | Details |
Cross - Sectional Area per Core | 0.5 square millimeters |
Total Cross - Sectional Area | 1 square millimeter |
Rated Voltage | Usually 300V DC - 600V DC |
Current Rating (90°C) | Approximately 6A per core, 12A in total |
DC Resistance (20°C) | ≤36.0Ω/km per core |
Overall Diameter | Around 3 - 4mm |
Minimum Bend Radius | 3 - 5 times the cable diameter (9 - 20mm) |
Flame Retardancy | Complies with IEC 60332 - 1 - 2 |
Certifications | TÜV EN 50618 (for low - voltage sections), IEC 62930 (partial compliance), RoHS |
IV. Key Features
4.1 Ultra - Compact Design
The 0.5mm² twin core solar cable's small size is its standout feature. With an overall diameter of just 3 - 4mm, it can be easily integrated into spaces where larger cables would be impractical, such as inside small solar - powered sensors, portable solar chargers, or in the intricate wiring of small - scale rooftop solar add - on systems for sheds or greenhouses.
4.2 Flexibility
Thanks to its finely stranded conductors and flexible outer sheath, the cable offers exceptional bendability. It can be routed through tight conduits, around complex structural elements, and in confined electronic enclosures without kinking or damaging the internal components, making it highly suitable for applications that require precise and convoluted wiring.
4.3 Cost - Effectiveness for Low - Power Use
For low - current, low - power solar applications, this cable provides a cost - effective solution. Its smaller size means less material usage, resulting in lower production costs compared to larger - gauge solar cables. This makes it an attractive option for projects with limited budgets, such as DIY solar projects for small - scale home use or community - based initiatives with modest power requirements.
4.4 Adequate Electrical Performance
Despite its small size, the cable maintains reliable electrical performance for its intended low - power applications. With a rated current of 12A in total, it can effectively transmit power from small solar panels to low - voltage devices or battery charging systems, ensuring stable operation of small - scale solar setups.
V. Application Scenarios
5.1 Small - Scale Residential Add - Ons
In residential settings, the 0.5mm² twin core solar cable can be used for supplementary solar installations, such as powering a small shed, greenhouse, or outdoor lighting system. It can connect a few small solar panels to a battery or a low - voltage inverter, providing a simple and cost - effective way to harness solar energy for specific, low - power needs around the home.
5.2 Solar - Powered Devices
Ideal for powering various small solar - powered devices, including solar - powered garden lights, weather stations, wireless sensors, and portable solar chargers. Its compact size and flexibility allow for easy integration into the device's design, enabling seamless power transfer from the solar panel to the device's internal components.
5.3 Educational and DIY Projects
In educational institutions, science fairs, and DIY hobbyist projects, this cable is a popular choice. It enables students and enthusiasts to build and experiment with small - scale solar systems without the need for complex and expensive wiring solutions. Its simplicity and affordability make it accessible for learning about solar energy and hands - on experimentation.
5.4 Micro - Grid and Off - Grid Sub - Systems
In larger off - grid or micro - grid systems, the 0.5mm² twin core solar cable can be used for specific sub - systems with low - power requirements, such as powering the control circuitry, monitoring devices, or small - scale communication equipment within the system. It helps in creating a more modular and efficient wiring layout for these specialized components.
VI. Installation and Maintenance
6.1 Installation Guidelines
Termination: Use small - gauge connectors specifically rated for 0.5mm² cables. Crimping or soldering techniques need to be precise to ensure a secure electrical connection, as the small conductors can be easily damaged if not handled carefully. For example, miniature crimp connectors or fine - pitch soldering pads are commonly used.
Routing: When routing the cable, take advantage of its flexibility but still follow the minimum bend radius requirements to avoid damaging the insulation and conductors. Secure the cable using small - sized cable ties or clips, especially in areas where it may be subject to movement or vibration. Keep the cable away from heat sources and sharp edges to prevent damage.
Polarity Check: Due to the cable's use in small - scale and often intricate systems, double - check the polarity of the connections. Incorrect polarity can easily disrupt the operation of small - scale devices or charging systems. Use a multimeter to verify the correct connection before powering on the system.
6.2 Maintenance Tips
Regular Inspection: Conduct visual inspections of the cable at least once a year, or more frequently if used in harsh environments. Look for signs of wear, such as fraying of the outer sheath, exposed conductors, or discoloration of the insulation. Check the connectors for any signs of looseness, corrosion, or overheating, as these can be more critical in small - scale systems.
Cleaning: If dirt or debris accumulates on the cable, clean it gently using a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using abrasive materials or chemicals that could damage the thin insulation or outer sheath. In outdoor applications, more frequent cleaning may be required to remove dust, dirt, or bird droppings.
Performance Monitoring: Periodically check the electrical performance of the cable - connected system. A significant drop in power output or unexpected device malfunctions could indicate a problem with the cable or its connections. If issues arise, perform a detailed inspection and consider replacing the cable if necessary to ensure the continued operation of the small - scale solar setup.
In conclusion, the 0.5mm² twin core solar cable serves as a specialized solution for low - power, space - constrained solar applications. Its unique combination of compact size, flexibility, and cost - effectiveness makes it a valuable asset in a variety of small - scale solar projects, contributing to the widespread adoption of solar energy at the micro level.