What is High Temp Wire?

Author: Henry Gagne Published on: December 14, 2020 Published in: Cable Guide

You could be using it with your oven, microwave, or other appliance and wonder what a high temp wire is. A few people are also surprised by how much they have to pay to have little quantities of this wire. Whether you use this at work, researching this for school work, or just trivial functions at home, we’ll discuss what high temperature wire really is. This is to answer some of the misinformation you’ll find over the web and explain why it’s priced higher than most types of wire. 

You can install cables in harsh environments and extreme temperatures. Let’s say, for example, a sew-2 wire, tggt wire, or an mgt wire.  You have to make sure that you choose the right cables and wires for specific conditions. It’s essential to make sure the wire’s lifespan is not compromised. Using cable and wire products not in their recommended temperature range will result in failure or even accidents. 

What is High Temp Wire?

A high temperature wire, also called “high temp wire,” is often defined as a wire that can tolerate 125 degrees Celsius or higher temperatures. It can also mean they can manage not just heat but also the cold. High temp wires can also handle ratings as low as 90 degrees celsius. From its conductor to its insulator, high temperature wire constructions are rated 125, 150, 200, 450, and 550 degrees celsius. Its variety can include braidless silicone, braided, silicone wire, mgt, and tggt wires. 

These wiring kinds usually consist of a conductor (tinned copper, copper-plated, nickel-coated copper or annealed) and insulation. They may also have an extra jacket that consists of a fibreglass or k-fibre material. 

2 key components make sure high temp wires are suitable for each application: wire temperature rating and ampacity. 

1. Wire temperature rating – These ratings are defined as the wire’s ability to withstand maximum continuous temperature in its lifetime. If a wire’s temperature rating is not suitable for its environment and ambient temperature, its lifespan will be compromised. 
2. Ampacity – This is the maximum current an insulated conductor can carry safely without exceeding the jacket’s temperature limitation and insulation. If a wire is undersized, the heat will cause circuit overloading and exceed the wire temperature capacity. Causing compromisation. 

What is thermal wire used for?

Thermal wire and cables such as teflon wire or tefzel wire are used to extend thermocouples. These wires connect one thermocouple to another to the point of cold junction compensation or CJC.

Styles of High Temperature Wire

Besides the AWM high-temperature wires listed above, the table below provides examples of UL Listed high temp wires per UL 83A.

Conclusion

For specific applications that need to sustain a certain temperature, extreme heat or resistance, specialized cables like high temp wires are needed. Always remember that choosing the right product is advised to avoid replacements, damages, or accidents. Here at Tevelec, we have a wide variety of wire and cable products that can withstand heat or extreme temperatures. If you cannot decide or have difficulty choosing, contact us to answer your queries right away. 

Other Popular Cables By Tevelec

• Mini split cable
• Braided Silicon Rubber