Why is TPS cable required to be stranded?

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neb

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#236393 31-May-2018 02:32

Question says it all, in the US mains cable is usually solid-core because it's cheaper, while here TPS cable above 1mm2 has to be stranded, but no explanation is given as to why. Anyone know?

SATTV

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#2026054 31-May-2018 07:20

The earth cable must be multi stranded for safety reasons, I have seen larger than 1mm TPS with solid conductors but earth is multi stranded.

I think multi stranded would be more flexible and create less high resistance joinets than solid conductors.

John

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andrewNZ

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#2026055 31-May-2018 07:24

Even 1mm2 is stranded now. Solid conductors break if you're not careful.

Suckerpunch

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#2026058 31-May-2018 07:26

My guess... It's stronger, handles movement better, is harder to break so lasts longer and therefore safer?

neb

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#2026943 1-Jun-2018 14:45

The use of stranded makes sense for things like extension cords that get moved around a lot, but not so much for fixed house wiring that's permanently tacked into place. So it looks like it's mostly speculation rather than a definitive "it's required for safety reason XYZ".

Just wondering in any case, came up while talking to a US person. Given that they allow NEMA 1 plugs/sockets and wire nuts and other invitations to suicide, I figured the solid-core thing was just more unsound US electrical practice, but can't find any strong evidence to support this.

andrewNZ

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#2027168 1-Jun-2018 18:47

Any electrician will tell you, solid 1mm is a pig for breaking at the terminations. Broken wires cause fires. (Source: Am electricians).
We were actually discussing this at work the very afternoon you started the thread.

neb

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#2027171 1-Jun-2018 18:59

andrewNZ: Any electrician will tell you, solid 1mm is a pig for breaking at the terminations. Broken wires cause fires. (Source: Am electricians).
We were actually discussing this at work the very afternoon you started the thread.

Ah, and that would be the reason. Thanks!