PE Cable

This thermoplastic material is referred to as PE, or occasionally the more specific compounds MDPE (medium density polyethylene) and HDPE (high-density polyethylene), and can be found on low voltage, medium voltage, and high voltage cables owing to its high dielectric strength.

Commonly specified for external applications, PE cables can sit in cable ducts including those that become waterlogged. Medium Voltage cables with PE sheathing are often available with additional waterblocking layers to provide additional protection in these circumstances. Direct burial is also applicable as an installation method when deemed appropriate under prevailing Wiring Regulations. When applied to instrumentation and data cables, the PE sheathing often sees the cables referred to as 'duct grade'. Cables are usually black in colour and are UV resistant, although this should be confirmed against individual technical datasheets if specifically required or in a location where cables are subject to elevated solar temperatures.