Difference between DC and AC cables

DC cable and AC cable, as the two most common wires and cables, the differences between them are mainly reflected in the following aspects:

1. The way of transmitting voltage is different: in DC cables, the current is unidirectional, so its transmission is DC. DC power in the transmission process there is no change in voltage amplitude, will not produce a large change in current.

2. The magnitude of current is different: the magnitude of current transmitted by DC cables does not change with time, hence they can carry a large amount of current. The size of the current transmitted by the AC cable will change periodically with time, and its maximum value occurs at the peak of the sinusoidal wave, so the maximum value of a cycle allows the transmission of a smaller current.

3. Different transmission losses: DC cable power loss is mainly conductor DC resistance loss, insulation loss part of the smaller; AC cable AC resistance is slightly larger than the DC resistance, so the AC cable transmission loss is larger.

4. Different insulation requirements: DC cable insulation requirements are lower, because DC power has no inductance and surge, the insulation requirements are lower. The insulation requirements of AC cables are higher, because AC power will produce inductance and surge, the insulation requirements are higher.

5. Different application scenarios: DC cables are mainly used in DC transmission systems, such as China and Brazil are also using DC transmission lines to transmit electricity. While AC cables are commonly used in industrial frequency power systems, such as most of the power transmission is still completed in the AC transmission lines.

6. Cable structure is different: DC cable structure is relatively simple, generally by one or more mutually insulated conductor and outsourcing insulation made of protective layers. The structure of the AC cable is relatively complex, generally stranded by several or several groups of wires, similar to the rope cable.

7. Cables are generally labeled on the package or insulation with the model number, including category, application, conductor material, characteristic code/derivative code, insulation code and cable standard.

In general, the differences between DC cables and AC cables are mainly in the way of transmitting voltage, current magnitude, transmission loss, insulation requirements, application scenarios and cable structure. When choosing wire and cable, you need to choose the right type of cable according to the specific application scenarios and needs.