Common Cable Types Used in China

China has a vast and diverse cable industry designed to meet the needs of its rapidly developing infrastructure, industrial sectors, and technological advancements. These cables conform to local standards such as GB/T (Chinese National Standards) and international standards like IEC to ensure safety, performance, and durability. Below is a detailed exploration of the most widely used cable types in China.

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1. BV/BVR Cables (PVC-Insulated Copper Cables)

Description:
BV cables consist of single-core copper wires with PVC insulation, while BVR cables are the flexible variant with stranded copper conductors.

Applications:
- Fixed wiring in residential, commercial, and industrial installations.
- Lighting and power circuits.
- Control panels and switchboards.

Features:
- Rated for 450/750V.
- BV is suitable for fixed installations, while BVR offers flexibility.
- Flame-retardant options available for enhanced safety.

Standards:
- GB/T 5023.3-2008.

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2. VV/VLV Cables (PVC-Insulated and Sheathed Power Cables)

Description:
VV cables have copper conductors, while VLV cables use aluminum conductors. Both are insulated and sheathed with PVC, making them suitable for low-voltage power transmission.

Applications:
- Power distribution in buildings and industrial facilities.
- Indoor fixed installations.
- Power supply in rural and urban areas.

Features:
- Rated for up to 0.6/1 kV.
- Cost-effective options for power distribution.
- Flame-retardant and low-smoke halogen-free (LSHF) variants available.

Standards:
- GB/T 12706.1-2008.

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3. YJV/YJLV Cables (XLPE-Insulated Power Cables)

Description:
These cables feature cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE) insulation for superior heat resistance and durability. YJV uses copper conductors, while YJLV uses aluminum.

Applications:
- Medium- and low-voltage power transmission.
- Underground installations.
- Industrial plants and renewable energy systems.

Features:
- Rated for 0.6/1 kV to 35 kV.
- Higher current-carrying capacity compared to PVC cables.
- Resistant to moisture, chemicals, and UV exposure.

Standards:
- GB/T 12706.2-2008.

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4. NH Cables (Fire-Resistant Cables)

Description:
NH cables are designed to maintain electrical integrity during fire conditions, ensuring critical systems remain operational.

Applications:
- Emergency lighting and alarm systems.
- Hospitals, airports, and public buildings.
- Data and communication networks.

Features:
- Flame-retardant and low-smoke halogen-free properties.
- High-temperature resistance.
- Suitable for harsh environments.

Standards:
- GB/T 19666-2005.

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5. RV/RVV Cables (Flexible Copper Cables)

Description:
RV cables are single-core flexible cables with PVC insulation, while RVV cables are multi-core versions with an additional PVC sheath.

Applications:
- Internal wiring for appliances and electronics.
- Portable devices and tools.
- Control circuits and signal transmission.

Features:
- Rated for 300/500V.
- Highly flexible and easy to install.
- Suitable for dry indoor environments.

Standards:
- GB/T 5023.3-2008.

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6. AAC/ACSR (Overhead Conductors)

Description:
AAC (All Aluminum Conductor) and ACSR (Aluminum Conductor Steel Reinforced) are widely used for overhead power lines in China.

Applications:
- Long-distance power transmission.
- Utility and rural electrification projects.
- High-voltage distribution networks.

Features:
- Lightweight and corrosion-resistant.
- ACSR provides added strength for long spans.
- Cost-effective for overhead installations.

Standards:
- GB/T 1179-2008.

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7. Coaxial Cables

Description:
Coaxial cables are widely used for signal transmission in telecommunications and broadcasting systems.

Applications:
- Cable TV and satellite connections.
- Broadband internet services.
- CCTV and security systems.

Features:
- Shielded to reduce interference.
- High-frequency signal transmission.
- Weather-resistant options for outdoor use.

Standards:
- GB/T 14864-93.

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8. Fiber Optic Cables

Description:
Fiber optic cables use light to transmit data, offering high-speed and high-capacity communication capabilities.

Applications:
- Internet backbones and data centers.
- Telecommunication networks.
- Smart city and IoT infrastructure.

Features:
- Immune to electromagnetic interference.
- High bandwidth and speed.
- Long-distance transmission without significant loss.

Standards:
- GB/T 9771-2008.

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9. Solar Cables (Photovoltaic Cables)

Description:
Specialized cables designed for photovoltaic systems to withstand UV exposure, weather, and temperature extremes.

Applications:
- Solar panel installations.
- Renewable energy systems.

Features:
- Flame retardant and halogen-free.
- Resistant to high temperatures and moisture.
- Long service life.

Standards:
- GB/T 30046-2013.

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10. High-Voltage Cables

Description:
High-voltage cables are used for electricity transmission across long distances and in large-scale industrial applications.

Applications:
- Utility power grids and substations.
- High-voltage industrial systems.

Features:
- XLPE insulation for durability and reliability.
- Shielded for safety.
- Suitable for harsh conditions.

Standards:
- GB/T 11017-2002.

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Conclusion

China's cable industry caters to a wide range of applications, from domestic wiring to advanced industrial and communication systems. Local and international standards ensure the cables are safe, reliable, and high-performing. As China continues to lead in infrastructure development, renewable energy, and technology, the demand for innovative and specialized cables is expected to grow significantly.