What is the Difference Between XLPE and PVC?
🆚 Go to Comparative Table 🆚The main difference between XLPE (cross-linked polyethylene) and PVC (polyvinyl chloride) insulated cables lies in their temperature resistance, tensile strength, and environmental impact. Here are the key differences between the two:
- Temperature Resistance: XLPE has a maximum working temperature of 90°C, while PVC has a maximum working temperature of 70°C. XLPE can withstand higher temperatures due to its thermoset material properties, while PVC is a thermoplastic.
- Tensile Strength and Durability: XLPE provides greater tensile strength, elongation, and impact resistance compared to PVC. This is because XLPE molecules are chemically bonded together, contributing to the overall stability of the cable when faced with higher temperature situations.
- Environmental Impact: XLPE is more environmentally friendly than PVC because it does not contain chloride. This makes XLPE insulation a more sustainable choice.
- Current Carrying Capacity: XLPE insulated cables can carry a higher current load than PVC insulated cables of the same cross-section.
- Chemical Resistance: XLPE has better resistance to oil, chemicals, and water compared to PVC.
- Installation: PVC insulated cables are easier to install compared to XLPE insulated cables.
- Cost: PVC insulated cables generally have a higher cost compared to XLPE insulated cables.
In summary, XLPE insulated cables are more suitable for high-tension applications, high temperatures, and environments with exposure to chemicals and water. PVC insulated cables, on the other hand, are suitable for low-tension applications and environments with lower temperatures. The choice between XLPE and PVC depends on the specific requirements of the application and the environmental conditions.
Comparative Table: XLPE vs PVC
The main differences between XLPE and PVC insulated cables are:
| Factor | XLPE Cable | PVC Cable |
|---|---|---|
| Electric Load | Suitable for Greater Loads | Suitable for Regular Loads |
| Installation | Slightly Tougher to Install | Easy to Install |
| Heat Resistance | Good | Average |
| Chemical Resistance | Very Good | Good |
| Maximum Operating Temp. | 120 Degrees C | 70 Degrees C |
| Short Circuit Temp. | 250 Degrees C | 160 Degrees C |
| Lower Operating Temperature | -40 Degrees C for XLPE Grade | -15 Degrees C for General Purpose Compounds |
| Health | Neutral | Toxic |
| Toughness | Poor Compared to PVC | Good |
| Cost Saving | Low Cost Compared to PVC Insulated Cable | High Cost Compared to XLPE Insulated Cable |
| Service Life | Usually Longer than PVC Insulated Cable | Usually Shorter than XLPE Insulated Cable |
| Water Proof Performance in Application Environment | Not as Good as PVC Insulated Cable | Better than XLPE Insulated Cable |
| Environment Protection Aspect | Environment Friendly Due to No Chlorine Content | Contains Chlorine Which Releases Toxic Gases When Burned |
In summary, XLPE cables are generally more robust, heat resistant, and environmentally friendly compared to PVC cables. However, they are also more expensive and not as water-resistant as PVC cables. The choice between XLPE and PVC depends on the specific application and requirements, such as the electric load, operating temperature, and environmental considerations.