"Wire" - what is it, definition of the term
A conductive strand, usually composed of copper or aluminum and covered by an insulating material, serves to transfer electrical current or signals between components; its flexibility and low resistance enable reliable connections within circuits, devices, and systems.
Detailed information
Conductive strands consist of one or more metal cores, typically copper or aluminum, insulated by polymeric or rubber compounds. The metal core provides low‑resistance pathways for electric current, while the insulation prevents accidental contact with other conductors, surfaces, or living organisms. Common constructions include solid cores for rigid installations and stranded bundles for flexibility in moving parts.
Classification of these conductors is based on voltage rating, temperature rating, and shielding. Low‑voltage types serve household lighting and control circuits; medium‑voltage varieties supply industrial machinery; high‑voltage versions deliver power over long distances. Temperature categories range from 60 °C to 200 °C, dictating permissible operating environments. Shielded variants incorporate metallic foil or braid to reduce electromagnetic interference.
Installation practices require secure mechanical support, proper routing, and adherence to bend radius limits to avoid conductor fatigue. Connections must be made with compatible terminals, ensuring tight compression and corrosion‑resistant contact. Protective conduits or raceways are employed where exposure to physical damage is likely.
Rodents, particularly rats and mice, pose a significant threat to these conductors. Their incisors can gnaw insulation, exposing the metal core and creating short‑circuit hazards. Damage often occurs in concealed spaces such as walls, ceilings, and utility tunnels, where food sources and nesting sites attract pest activity. Evidence of gnaw marks includes clean, uniform cuts through the outer jacket and frayed metal strands.
Mitigation strategies include:
- Installing metal or rigid plastic conduit that rodents cannot easily chew.
- Applying rodent‑resistant tapes or sleeves made of reinforced fibers around exposed sections.
- Sealing entry points with steel mesh or cement to block access to wiring pathways.
- Conducting regular inspections in high‑risk areas, looking for fresh gnaw marks or droppings.
- Using bait stations and traps to reduce local rodent populations.
Maintenance protocols call for replacing any conductor with compromised insulation, testing for continuity and insulation resistance, and documenting the location and cause of each repair. Prompt remediation restores electrical safety and prevents recurrent damage.