Electrical Cable - Acceptablity of PVC for Sub zero temperature

[skm]

We need to install cable at a project site where the temperature goes 30 degrees below zero during winter. Is it OK to use PVC as the insulation and outer sheath material. As per my information PVC can be used upto -5 deg C and bcomes hard and brittle at lower temperature.

Is it OK to go with PVC insualtion but PE outer sheath for such an application.

 

[davidbeach]

Is -30 deg C within or outside the rated temperature range of the cable. If outside the rated temperature range, then no it is not appropriate.

 

[dpc]

I'd confirm with the manufacturer in any case. -30 deg C is pretty cold - pretty much any insulation is going to be stiff at that temp. You should put the temperature requirements in your cable specification.

There will probably be two temperature limits: one for installation - pretty tough pulling in PVC cable at -30 I would guess - and a limit for operation after installation.

 

[jghrist]

According to information I have from Cablec, Corp., PVC passes a cold bend test at -10°C. Polyethylene (PE), chlorinated polyethylene (CPE), neoprene, and Hypalon pass at -40°C.

 

[BJC]

If your going to pull cable in cold weather ( I would say
+ 40 degrees or below} make sure it's warm. Build the necessary temporary shelters and heat it. It can take a couple of days to heat a large reel of cable. In addition you may have to heat the ducts by blowing hot air through them.
Any cable at 20 below makes a giant slinkly toy.