The main armored cable families are Steel Wire Armoured (SWA), Steel Tape Armoured (STA), Aluminium Wire Armoured (AWA), and Aluminium Tape Armoured (ATA). Each provides different levels of mechanical protection, weight, and flexibility, influencing where and how they’re used.
SWA offers maximum crush resistance and is ideal for harsh, high-impact environments. STA provides strong protection with lighter weight and greater flexibility than SWA, making it easier to route in confined spaces. AWA is lighter and corrosion-resistant, suitable for outdoor or damp environments where metal corrosion is a concern. ATA combines good protection with lighter weight, often used in installations that require easier handling and installation. Beyond armor, the cable’s inner components (conductors, insulation, shielding, and jacket) determine electrical performance, temperature tolerance, and environmental resistance. Always verify compliance with relevant standards and ensure termination methods are compatible with the armor type.
How to choose the right armored cable
- Environment: indoor/outdoor, direct burial, soil moisture, chemical exposure, rodent risk
- Mechanical demands: impact, abrasion, bending, and installation routing
- Electrical needs: voltage rating, current, conductor size, shielding requirements
- Temperature & chemicals: insulation and jacket material compatibility
- Compatibility: termination glands, connectors, and mounting methods
- Documentation: third-party certifications, batch traceability, and test reports