Traits that Make for Quality Battery Cable Wire

[Greg Anixter]

When you year the term battery cable wire, you’re probably working with battery cable, since wire is a single conductor and cable is made up of many small conductors braided together. Most so called battery wire is actually battery cable for one (or more) of the reasons that will be covered below.

If you’re looking for battery cable (wire), it probably means you have a problem with your battery or electrical connections. This could be a problem with the wire but it could also be a problem with the battery or the connection. Test the battery’s health using a multimeter and if the reading indicates low voltage, you may want to try charging the battery. If the battery will not hold a charge, it may be time to replace the battery itself. That is to say, your wire or cable may not be the culprit.

In that case, check the battery terminals and the connections. Corrosion may also cause issues with power; if there is corrosion on the terminals, you may want to try cleaning it with a terminal cleaner. If the issue persists, you may need new cable.

There are several types of cable that can be used for battery cables, including but not limited to cables actually termed as “battery cables.” For example, some welding cables can be used for battery power supply hookups.

If you’re looking for battery cables to replace aging electrical infrastructure or simply to hook up a new battery, here are some things to look for.

• Cable Gauge and Voltage Rating - Perhaps the most important thing to assure yourself of is that you are working within the limits of the cable or wire you choose. You can use a wire gauge chart or simply make sure you do not exceed the voltage rating of the battery cable. Working within the constraints of your equipment is not only a matter of efficiency but also of safety.

 

• Flexibility - Some battery cables, specifically marine grade battery cables, are specifically manufactured with a higher strand count to ensure the best degree of flexibility possible. This makes the cable better able to withstand some mechanical stressors and also makes it possible to bend the cables into place to make connections.

 

• Durable Insulation - Many battery cables are made with EPDM, XLPE or other heavy-duty, high-durability materials as part of their jacketed insulation. All things being equal, the toughest insulation you can find is also the best. Many of them are resistant to sunlight and ozone, weather, extreme temperatures, moisture, gasoline, oil, acids, alkali and even abrasion influences.

If you have more targeted questions about what makes quality in battery cable, get on the phone with the Electrical Wire and Cable Specialists from EWCSWire.com. They’re never more than a call away at 800-262-1598 and would be more than happy to answer your questions, although they can also provide you with some of the highest quality, made-in-the-USA electrical wires and cables (including battery cable) out there. Give them a call today to learn more.