Control Cable

Control cables are electrical cables specifically designed to transmit low-voltage signals for control and monitoring purposes in industrial applications.

Different types of control cables

There are five main types of control cables: standard multicore industrial cable, CY cable, SY cable, YY cable and security and alarm cable.

Multi-core Cable

Multicore industrial cables have varying degrees of flexibility and their robust design makes them ideal for harsh industrial environments where high-volume cabling is required. Multicore industrial control wires are used to transmit data, signal and power in the same cable to equipment and machinery.

CY Cable

CY cables are screened flexible control cables typically used in applications reliant on interference-free transmission. In industries where interference can impact signalling transmission. A reliable cable is needed for accurate transmission even in areas where electromagnetic fields are generated. CY cable features a multicore flex, tinned copper wire braid and polyethene terephthalate (PET) separator, which protects it from external electromagnetic influences.

SY Cable

SY Cable is an armoured flexible control cable designed for measuring control or regulation under tough mechanical stresses. SY cable uses a galvanised steel braided multicore cable protected by a transparent sheath. Stronger than CY and YY cables, this SY cable is widely used in installations where free movement is required without tensile stresses.

YY Cable

YY control cable is a highly flexible unshielded multicore power and signal control cable able to support a range of applications, including engineering, plant installations, car production, bottling plants and many more. It is made up of plain electrolytic fine copper wire strands with PVC-based insulation. Plus, it is suitable for outdoor use, especially when placed in an electrical enclosure and protected from direct sunlight and indoors in dry or moist conditions.

Security & Alarm Cable

A security alarm cable is a type of shielded control cable used to connect security systems. The sheath provides protection against frequency interference, which could otherwise cause false alarms to occur. Security alarm cables consist of several strands of wire, all contained within a protective sheath.

Control cable vs. power control cable

While both control cables and power control cables transmit electrical signals, they have distinct differences in their function, voltage capacity, and applications. Here’s how to differentiate between the two:

Power Control Cable

Designed for high-power applications, power control cables safely deliver electrical energy to power motors, actuators, and other industrial machinery. These cables typically handle voltage levels ranging from 600V to 5kV or even higher.

Control Cable

Carrying low-voltage signals (300V-600V), control cables are vital for monitoring and controlling industrial equipment in instrumentation, automation systems, and control panels.

How to choose the right control cable for your needs

Selecting the right control cable is crucial for ensuring reliable and efficient signal transmission in your industrial applications. When choosing a control cable, consider factors like the required voltage rating, number of cores, flexibility, and environmental conditions it will be exposed to. At RS, we offer a wide range of high-quality control cables, ensuring you find the perfect fit for your specific needs. Plus, our sales team can provide guidance and recommendations based on your application requirements.

How to order control cables from RS?

RS Hong Kong is your trusted supplier of high-quality electrical components like control cables, electric wires, twisted pair cables and more. We offer an extensive selection from renowned brands like Alpha Wire, Igus, and Lapp, ensuring you find the perfect cable to suit your specific needs.

Plus, ordering your control cable is easy and convenient with these options:

• Online: Explore our comprehensive online catalogue, review the price and specifications, and add your selected control cable to your cart. Then, proceed to checkout for fast and secure online payment.
• Phone: Call us at 852 2421 9898, and our knowledgeable team will assist you with placing your order and answer any questions you may have.

How delivery works at RS Hong Kong

RS Hong Kong offers flexible delivery options to meet your specific needs, ensuring your control cables arrive promptly. For more details on delivery services and fees, please refer to our Delivery page.