Buried cables pose significant risks: they might be crushed by bulldozers, gnawed by rats, or have their cores broken by soil subsidence. Even more concerning is the risk of the outer sheath cracking after only six months, causing work stoppages. Replacing a cable can cost several times more than buying a new one.
If you’re struggling with these issues, we’re the right choice.
Why our SWA cables offer peace of mind?
- Densely laid steel wire for lightning and trampling protection: Our galvanized steel wire armor isn’t just for show. The tightly wound, tightly sealed wires ensure the core remains stable even when run over by heavy trucks or buried in rocky terrain.
- All-copper, no shortcuts: Many low-priced cables use recycled copper or aluminum-clad copper. We use only oxygen-free refined copper, ensuring high conductivity, stable signal transmission, and no overheating.
- 20-year-lasting outer sheath: We use virgin materials for both insulation and sheathing, without adding recycled materials. They withstand wind, sun, oil, and corrosion without becoming brittle or cracking. Vertical Laying,
- No Tear Resistance: The steel wire layer not only provides protection but also acts as a tensile support. Even with a drop of hundreds of meters, there’s no need to worry about cable deformation.
- Cheap and Uncompromising Pricing: Factory direct sales, eliminating the middleman’s markup. For the same budget, you can get a higher level of protection.
- Timely Delivery Guaranteed: Our factory production line operates 24/7. We have solutions for urgent and large orders, ensuring your project schedule isn’t delayed.
Tell me your specifications (number of cores, cross-sectional area, environmental requirements) now. You don’t necessarily have to place an order yet. Add me on WeChat/leave your phone number, and I’ll send you a fair quotation and a few sample cables. Compare them with others—cut them open, burn them, twist them with pliers—and you’ll know the quality at a glance.
What is a steel wire armored control cable?
A steel wire armored control cable is a multi-core control cable primarily used for transmitting control signals, monitoring signals, or low-power electricity. Its key feature is an outer layer of galvanized steel wire armor (SWA), providing high tensile strength and resistance to mechanical damage.
Unlike steel tape armored (STA), SWA steel wire armor is more suitable for laying methods requiring high tensile or bending strength, such as hanging or frequently moved environments.
Common standards:
International: BS 5467, IEC 60502
Domestic: GB/T 9330, JB/T 8734
Rated voltage is typically 300/500V or 0.6/1kV.
Structure of Steel Wire Armored Control Cable
SWA control cables feature a multi-layered protection design, comprising, from the inside out:
1. Conductor — Multi-strand copper core (2-61 cores), cross-section 1.5-10mm².
2. Insulation — PVC, XLPE, or LSZH (low smoke halogen-free).
3. Filler — PVC or non-woven fabric filler, ensuring roundness.
4. Inner Sheath — PVC sheath, providing additional protection.
5. Armor — Galvanized steel wire armor (SWA), high tensile strength.
6. Outer Sheath — PVC, LSZH, or oil-resistant material.
Comparison of Different Standards: BS 5467 vs IEC 60502
BS 5467 (British/Commonwealth Standard): Traditional armored cable standard, typically with voltage ratings of 600V/1000V. Widely used in projects in the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and former British colonies.
Typical Model: SWA/PVC/SWA/PVC (Double-armored, double-sheathed).
IEC 60502 / BS EN 50525 (EU/International Standard): A common standard for modern industrial projects.
Voltage Rating: 0.6/1kV (600/1000V).
Features: Greater emphasis on flame retardancy and environmental performance.
Common models
| model | Detailed Explanation of Meaning | Main features and application scenarios |
|---|---|---|
| Cu/XLPE/SWA/PVC | Copper core XLPE insulated, steel wire armored, PVC sheathed control cable | General purpose, high mechanical protection, direct underground burial |
| 6942X SWA PVC | BS 5467 standard 2-core steel wire armored PVC control cable | Common UK/European projects |
| BS 6724 Cu/LSZH/SWA | Copper core low-smoke halogen-free, steel wire armored control cable | High fire safety, such as in public buildings |
| CY/SWA/PVC | Copper braided shielded control cable + steel wire armor, PVC sheath | Add shielding to resist interference, for automated equipment |
| KVV32 | Copper core PVC insulated, PVC sheathed, steel wire armored control cable | Basic type, high tensile strength, suitable for direct burial or hanging installation. |
| KVVP32 | Copper core PVC insulated, copper wire braided shielded, PVC sheathed, steel wire armored control cable | Total shielding, strong anti-interference, industrial control systems |
| KVVP2-32 | Copper core PVC insulated, copper tape shielded, PVC sheathed, steel wire armored control cable | Copper tape shielding, economical anti-interference |
| KYJV32 | Copper core XLPE insulated, PVC sheathed, steel wire armored control cable | Higher temperature resistance (90℃), high temperature environment |
| ZR-KVV32 | Flame-retardant KVV32 | Locations with high fire safety requirements, such as buildings or tunnels |
| KVVR32 | Copper core PVC insulated, flexible, PVC sheathed, steel wire armored control cable | It is flexible and suitable for frequent movement. |
Why choose SWA control cables? (Application scenarios)
1. Direct Burial: No conduit required; cables can be directly buried in the soil, saving construction costs.
2. Vertical Laying with High Drops: Steel wires support the cable’s own weight, preventing breakage.
3. Outdoor Exposed Installation: UV-resistant outer sheath + steel tape, suitable for overhead or cable tray installations.
4. Hazardous Areas: Oil platforms, chemical plants, and other locations requiring explosion-proof and impact-resistant protection.
FAQ
Q: Are SWA control cables waterproof?
A: Standard SWA cables have a waterproof outer sheath (such as PE or PVC) to prevent moisture intrusion. However, if the cable is to be submerged in water for extended periods or requires underwater operation, it is recommended to choose a model with a double sheath or water-resistant tape filling.