Industrial cords are designed to support heavy duty, demanding applications that require the electrical cords to hold a significant amount of weight or withstand harsh conditions. Some common uses for industrial cords are to power large household appliances, medical equipment, outdoor electrical equipment, and other power-intensive projects.
A “y-splitter” is a common term used to describe a cable that has a single connector on one end and dual connectors on the other. The shape makes it look like the letter “Y,” hence the name. They duplicate one electrical current into two separate outputs, or vice versa, converting two currents into one. A y-splitter cable allows two cords to run to or from the same power supply. They are useful for industrial applications such as splitting fiber optic cable signals or connecting multiple air hoses to one power source.
Multi-conductor, or multi-core, refers to wires or cables that combine two or more conductors, or power feeds, inside of one insulation jacket. Multi-conductors are twisted within the insulation sheath but can also be concentrically laid throughout the cord. Multi-conductor cords simplify an electrical connection that would otherwise need multiple wires into one cohesive cord.
A wire’s gauge is an indicator of thickness. Specifically, it measures the diameter of the wire. The lower the gauge, the thicker the wire is. The diameter of the wire matters because it helps determine load capacity, or how much electric current can safely run on the wire. Wire gauges also help find wire electrical resistance, or the strength at which the cord will oppose the flow of electricity through it. Lower resistance means that less electricity will be expended on creating unnecessary heat and more power will go directly where it is needed. Lower gauge wires can run more power while maintaining electrical efficiency. Different gauge measurements are suitable for different projects depending on the amperage of the circuit the cord will be running from and the wattage of the appliance being powered. A good rule to follow is the more power needed, the lower the gauge should be of the wire.
To get a maximum amperage of 30 from your circuit, you’ll need a wire gauge of 10. Typical appliances that can run on a 30-amp circuit are central air conditioners, refrigerators, and electric water heaters.
To get a maximum of 50 amps, you’ll need a wire gauge of at least 6. Appliances like ovens and dryers typically require a 50-amp circuit.
The correct wire gauge to get a maximum of 20 amps is 12. Some appliances that use 20-amp circuits are standard kitchen and bathroom receptacles, computers, and washing machines.