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I. Structural Characteristics
(I) Twin-Core PV Cables
Twin-core PV cables contain two insulated conductors encased within a single outer sheath. These two conductors typically transmit the positive and negative direct currents respectively. This integrated design simplifies the appearance and installation process. The specifications of the two conductors are generally the same, and common cross-sectional areas of the core wires include 4mm², 6mm², etc.
(II) Single-Core PV Cables
Single-core PV cables have only one conductor, which is wrapped with an insulation layer and an outer sheath. The single conductor independently transmits electric current. In practical use, to form a complete positive and negative circuit, two single-core cables are usually used in combination. The conductor cross-sectional area specifications are diverse, ranging from a smaller 1.5mm² to a larger 35mm².
II. Performance Parameters
(I) Current-Carrying Capacity
The current-carrying capacity of twin-core PV cables depends on the specifications of a single core, with the two cores jointly undertaking the current transmission. For example, for a 4mm² twin-core cable, if the rated current of a single core is 32A, the total current that the twin-core can carry can reach 64A in some scenarios. The current-carrying capacity of single-core PV cables is determined by the specifications of their own conductors. A single-core cable with a cross-sectional area of 4mm² also has a rated current of about 32A. When two such single-core cables are used in combination, the carrying capacity is similar to that of a twin-core cable of the same specification. However, in an actual circuit, the layout and connection of the two single-core wires may affect the overall performance.
(II) Resistance and Power Loss
Since the two conductors of the twin-core cable are within the same sheath, to a certain extent, it can optimize the current distribution, resulting in relatively stable resistance and small power loss. When single-core cables are used to form a circuit, if factors such as the routing distance and environment of the two wires are inconsistent, it may lead to differences in resistance, thus causing certain fluctuations in power loss.
III. Application Scenarios
(I) Twin-Core PV Cables
Residential Solar Systems：In home rooftop solar power generation systems, twin-core PV cables can conveniently connect solar panels to inverters, simplifying the wiring process, reducing installation time and error rates, and are suitable for rooftop environments with limited space.
Small Commercial Projects：For solar projects in small commercial buildings such as small offices and shops, twin-core cables can meet the medium-power transmission requirements, and their simple structure facilitates wiring construction inside the building or on the roof.
(II) Single-Core PV Cables
Large Solar Power Plants：In large-scale ground-mounted solar power plants, single-core cables can be flexibly combined according to specific requirements, making it convenient for large-scale cable laying and circuit design. Especially in complex array layouts, the flexibility of single-core cables has more advantages.
Special Environments and Customized Projects：In some special environments such as high-temperature and highly corrosive areas, or in customized projects with special requirements for cable layout, single-core cables can be individually selected with appropriate protection levels and specifications to more accurately meet the project requirements.
IV. Comparison of Advantages and Disadvantages
(I) Twin-Core PV Cables
Advantages: The installation is convenient, which can reduce the wiring workload by half; the integrated design reduces the risk of polarity connection errors; the appearance is simple and it occupies less space, making it suitable for installation environments with limited space.
Disadvantages: Due to the integration of two conductors, the cable is relatively thick, and its flexibility may be inferior to that of single-core cables. In some scenarios that require frequent bending or turning in narrow spaces, the installation difficulty will increase; when one of the core wires has a problem during maintenance and replacement, the entire cable may need to be replaced.
(II) Single-Core PV Cables
Advantages: It is flexible to use, and single-core cables of different specifications can be selected for combination according to actual needs; the single cable is thin and has good flexibility, making it easy to route in complex environments; it is convenient for maintenance, and a single faulty cable can be replaced separately.
Disadvantages: During installation, two cables need to be handled simultaneously, resulting in a larger workload and an increased possibility of polarity connection errors; if the layout of the two cables is unreasonable, it may affect the circuit performance and safety.