Cable Knowledge
When Should I Choose Armoured Cable?
Armour adds mechanical protection, but it does not automatically make a cable waterproof, fireproof or suitable for every burial condition. The armour type and outer sheath must match installation stresses and corrosion exposure.
Typical Reasons for Armour
Armoured cable may be selected for direct burial, industrial plants, tunnels, cable trenches and routes exposed to impact or pulling stress. Conduit or guarded tray may provide an alternative depending on local rules.
Common Armour Constructions
Steel wire armour is widely used where tensile and mechanical protection are needed. Steel tape armour gives radial protection in many fixed installations. Single-core AC cable requires special attention because magnetic steel around one conductor can cause heating.
Moisture and Corrosion
Armour is not the water barrier. The bedding, sheath, water-blocking layers and installation drainage determine moisture performance. Damaged sheath can expose steel to corrosion.
Termination and Bonding
Cable glands must fit the cable diameter and armour type. Armour continuity, bonding and earth-fault performance must be verified; do not assume the armour alone is an adequate protective conductor without calculation.
Armour Does Not Solve Every Burial Risk
A steel-armoured cable can still fail after sheath damage and water entry. Route drainage, bedding, joints, sheath integrity and corrosion protection remain part of the underground design.
- Specify water protection separately.
- Check magnetic armour on single-core AC circuits.
- Calculate armour bonding and fault duty.
Information to Confirm
- Direct burial, impact or tensile risk
- Single-core or multicore AC circuit
- Water and corrosion exposure
- Required armour construction
- Gland, bonding and grounding method
- Outer diameter and bending radius
Engineering note: Armour selection and earthing must be coordinated with the electrical protection design.
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