A Quick Coil Cord Primer

By Contributed Article | February 07, 2014

This quick coil cord primer explains when to use coil cords and what to look for when you’re choosing products for your applications.

coil-cord-300x300Durability, low force-to-extend, excellent retractile memory, and high flex life are all important customer requirements for coil cords. From 12 AWG to very-fine-wire 38 AWG and tinsel, coiled cords are manufactured in single- or multi-conductor configurations. Standard and extra-flexible stranded conductors are available in both copper and high-strength copper alloys.

Conductor Insulation

Polypropylene, polyethylene, polyester, PVC, and TPE are most commonly used. Other insulations include FEP, PFA, and ETFE.

Coil Cord Shielding

We recommend the use of spiral wire shield to maximize the cord’s retractile properties. Aluminum/polyester tape is also available, as well as a combination of the two. Increased shielding will often necessitate a heavier cable jacket in order to produce the desired retractile memory.

Coil Cord Jacketing

Choice of jacketing compound is dependent on the application and environment in which the cord will be used. Materials include polyurethane, polyester, PVC, and TPE. All coil cords should be terminated and prepped for your specific application.

Coil Cord Specifications

coil-cord-2A=Axial lead* length
B=Retracted length of coil, extended length of coil
C=Coil O.D.
D=Tangential lead* length
E=Cable O.D.
* For the purpose of explanation, both tangential and axial leads are shown.

 

Information courtesy of Bay Associates Wire Technologies.

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