What Are the Advantages of Portable Power Cable？

Portable Cord vs Power Cable | Allied University

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In our This vs. That series, we compare and contrast two seemingly similar products. Many items may look alike at first glance, but they can significantly affect your next application. Today, let's delve into the differences between portable cords and power cables.

Although portable cords and power cables are often listed together in wire and cable catalogs, you might have wondered what sets these two apart. While both serve the primary function of transmitting electrical power, understanding their differences is crucial. Let’s explore.

What Is a Portable Cord?

A portable cord has two or more conductors and is optimal for temporary supply applications requiring flexibility. It typically consists of bare copper conductors, but the stranding, insulation, and jacket type vary depending on the intended use. A portable power cable offers a range of jacket options that determine its physical properties and suitability for different conditions. Notably, all portable cords withstand extreme environments and resist oil, chemicals, and abrasions. Some jackets offer additional resistance to water and other hazards.

Identifying a portable cord's jacket type is straightforward, thanks to a coding system made up of letters that specify the cable’s construction and applications. The same codes also indicate voltage ratings. For instance, “S” signifies “service” and that the cable is rated up to 600 volts, unless another letter modifies this rating. “J” stands for “junior service” and indicates a 300-volt rating.

The portable cord is versatile, catering to commercial, industrial, indoor, outdoor, and residential needs. It is ideal for appliances, small tools, construction equipment, and even marine electrical applications. When used in motors or appliances, it is also known as a “service cord.”

What Is a Power Cable?

Power cables, unlike portable cords, are designed for permanent installations. They can be used for overhead wiring, exposed wiring, and direct burial applications. Comprising one or more electrical conductors with a covering, power cables come in various constructions, materials, and ratings to meet diverse application needs.

Power cables are prevalent in electric utilities, industrial, and commercial sectors. You can find them in diesel-electric locomotives as DLO cables, oil and gas drilling rigs, motor leads, power supply systems, shipyards, and certain mining applications. They are also used in low-voltage applications like thermostat controls, heating, and A/C installations, signal systems, and intercoms.

How Do They Compare?

Both cables serve similar purposes, but their application settings differentiate them. The most critical distinction is that portable cords are meant for temporary power supply, whereas power cables are typically used for long-term or permanent installations.

Mingda offers additional products and information you may need, so be sure to check it out.

If you're still uncertain whether you need a portable cord or a power cable, let Allied guide you! You can compare the full specs of portable cords and power cables yourself or consult an expert by emailing [email protected]

Power Cable and Portable Cord

Power Cables and Portable Cords

Galaxy is a leading supplier of both custom and stock power cables and portable cords. Galaxy can supply various types of power and portable cords, both stock and custom, in different AWG sizes, voltage ratings, compounds, shielding constructions, and conductor counts. They can also recommend the right power and portable cords for specific applications.

What are Power Cables and Portable Cords?

Power cables and portable cords provide power to a product. With numerous options available, choosing the correct power cable or portable cord can be confusing. Important selection criteria include national and international standards, the working environment of the product, plug specifications, and electrical requirements.

Benefits of Power Cables and Portable Cords

The applications of power cables and portable cords are almost limitless. Galaxy can provide off-the-shelf power cables and portable cords or help design custom products to meet exact needs and requirements. They can combine various AWG sizes and shielding types under one common jacket to perform multiple functions within one construction.

Power Cable and Portable Cord Applications

Galaxy supplies power cables and portable cords to various markets across several industries:

• Medical
• Oil & Gas
• Military/Defense
• Industrial
• Transportation
• Process Control
• Robotics

Galaxy Differentiators / Advantages for Power Cables and Portable Cords

There are many combinations of power cables and portable cords with different characteristics. Galaxy’s wire and cable experts can guide you in selecting a cable solution that perfectly meets your specific application requirements.

Features

Galaxy offers power cables and portable cords with:

• Multiple configurations
• Multiple conductors
• Various shielding options
• National and international standards
• Multiple NEMA plug options
• UL and CSA ratings
• Color choices

Power Cable and Portable Cord Technical Specifications

Galaxy offers power cables and portable cords with the following technical specifications:

Want more information on Portable Power Cable? Feel free to contact us.

• Gauge: 2 AWG – 18 AWG
• Voltage: 120V – 600V
• Temperature: -40°C to +90°C