3-Way Shielded Cable: Everything You Need to Know

HOW IT IS? WHAT IS A 3-WAY SHIELDADO CABLE FOR?

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The Ultimate Guide to 3-Core Shielded Cable: Technology and Applications

 

3-core shielded cable represents an indispensable technological solution in modern industrial and automation environments. Its primary function is to ensure the integrity and clarity of low-voltage signals, protecting them against electromagnetic interference (EMI) and radio frequency interference (RFI). This comprehensive guide will therefore cover the technical standards, various applications, and specifications that make this component crucial for engineers, installers, and students in the field. Through a detailed analysis, we will explore why the correct specification and installation of this cable are fundamental to the stability and safety of any system. Consequently, a thorough understanding of 3-core shielded cable is a competitive advantage.

 

The Strategic Importance of 3-Core Shielded Cable

 

First, the strategic importance of 3-core shielded cable lies in its ability to mitigate electrical noise. In environments with motors, frequency inverters, and other sources of EMI, control and instrumentation signals are extremely vulnerable. Therefore, the shield acts as a protective barrier, diverting these interferences to ground. This ensures that data transmitted between sensors, PLCs, and other devices is accurate and reliable, thus avoiding unexpected production shutdowns and equipment failures that could generate high costs.

 

3-Core Shielded Cable Construction and Materials

 

Analyzing the construction of the 3-core shielded cable , we observe high-quality components. Internally, it has three electrolytic copper conductors, chosen for their excellent conductivity. Furthermore, each conductor is individually insulated with dielectric materials such as PVC, PE, or HEPR, which withstand different operating temperatures. The shielding, in turn, is commonly made of an aluminized polyester tape in contact with a tinned copper drain. Consequently, this robust construction is what gives the cable its superior performance in electrically aggressive environments and is a determining factor in its specification.

 

Technical Standards Applicable to 3-Core Shielded Cable

 

Compliance with technical standards is vital to ensuring the safety and quality of 3-core shielded cables . In Brazil, ABNT standards, such as NBR 7289 and NBR 10300, establish the requirements for the construction, materials, and performance of instrumentation cables. Additionally, depending on the application, international standards such as UL (Underwriters Laboratories) may be required. Therefore, when specifying a 3-core shielded cable , it is essential to verify that the product is certified and meets all relevant regulatory guidelines. This compliance ensures predictable electrical and mechanical behavior.

 

Shielding on 3-Way Shielded Cable

 

Shielding effectiveness is the technological heart of 3-core shielded cable . Shield coverage, usually expressed as a percentage, indicates how well the cable blocks external interference. For most industrial applications, 100% coverage through aluminized tape is the standard. However, in some cases, a braided copper mesh can be used in conjunction with it for greater mechanical protection and effectiveness at low frequencies. Therefore, choosing the right shielding type directly impacts signal integrity and is a crucial point in automation design.

 

The Role of Drain in 3-Core Shielded Cable

 

Many people wonder about the function of the drain wire in a 3-core shielded cable . This component, a tinned copper conductor in direct contact with the aluminum tape, plays a crucial role. Primarily, it facilitates the connection of the shield to the system grounding point. Instead of attempting to connect the fragile aluminum tape, the installer connects the drain wire, thus ensuring a low-impedance, high-efficiency termination. Consequently, the drain ensures that noise currents picked up by the shield are effectively drained to ground, protecting the signal.

 

Applications of 3-Core Shielded Cable in Automation

 

In industrial automation, the applications for 3-core shielded cable are vast and critical. It is often used to connect pressure, temperature, and flow sensors to programmable logic controllers (PLCs). Furthermore, it is the ideal choice for connecting transmitters with 4-20 mA current or 0-10 V voltage signals. In these systems, signal accuracy is crucial for process control. Therefore, using a cable with adequate shielding prevents erroneous readings that could compromise the entire plant operation, making 3-core shielded cable essential.

 

Use of 3-Way Shielded Cable in Instrumentation

 

Analytical and precision instrumentation systems also rely heavily on 3-core shielded cable . Laboratory equipment, data acquisition (DAQ) systems, and high-sensitivity electronic balances are examples where the slightest interference can invalidate measurements. Thus, the cable ensures that the low-amplitude electrical signal generated by these devices reaches its destination intact. Shielding, in this context, is not just a recommendation, but a technical requirement for the validity and repeatability of the results obtained.

 

3-Way Shielded Cable in Audio and Video Systems

 

Although more common in industry, the 3-core shielded cable also finds application in professional audio and video systems. It can be used to connect microphones, mixers, and other audio equipment that requires a balanced connection to eliminate hum and buzz. In this case, two conductors carry the signal, and the third is used for return, with the shield connected to ground. This ensures clean, high-fidelity audio transmission, essential for recording studios and live events.

 

3-Way Shielded Cable Electrical Specifications

 

When selecting a 3-core shielded cable , engineers must carefully analyze its electrical specifications. Insulation voltage, for example, indicates the maximum voltage the cable can withstand, typically 300V or 600V. Other important parameters include capacitance and mutual inductance, which affect signal shape at high frequencies or long distances. Therefore, a careful analysis of the cable's datasheet is a crucial step, ensuring that the component is fully compatible with the system's electrical requirements.

 

Mechanical Resistance of 3-Core Shielded Cable

 

In addition to its electrical properties, the mechanical strength of a 3-core shielded cable is crucial, especially in industrial installations. The outer covering, usually made of PVC, must be resistant to abrasion, oils, grease, and moisture. For more demanding applications, polyurethane (PU) or other special compounds can be used. This ensures the cable maintains its structural integrity even when installed in cable trays, gutters, or in environments with constant movement, ensuring a long service life and reducing the need for corrective maintenance.

 

Correct Installation of 3-Way Shielded Cable

 

Proper installation is as important as the quality of the 3-core shielded cable . The most critical point is undoubtedly the shielding treatment. The golden rule is to ground the shield at only one end of the cable, usually at the panel or signal source end. Grounding at both ends can create a "ground loop," which, paradoxically, can induce noise in the system. Consequently, following this installation practice is mandatory for the shielding to fulfill its protective function with maximum efficiency.

 

Advantages of Using 3-Core Shielded Cable

 

The advantages of opting for a 3-core shielded cable are clear and measurable. First, there's a significant increase in system reliability (Signal-to-Noise Ratio). Furthermore, operational safety is enhanced, as incorrect control signals can lead to dangerous machine actions. Finally, although the initial cost may be slightly higher than that of an unshielded cable, the investment quickly pays for itself by avoiding production downtime, diagnostic costs, and rework. Therefore, shielded cable represents a smart, low-risk choice.

 

Challenges in Specifying 3-Core Shielded Cable

 

Despite its benefits, specifying 3-core shielded cable can present challenges. The choice of insulation and sheathing material, for example, must be compatible with the temperature and chemical environment of the application. Cable flexibility can also be a factor, especially in installations with robots or moving parts. Additionally, correctly sizing the conductor gauge (cross-section) is crucial to avoid voltage drops over long distances. Overcoming these challenges requires solid technical knowledge and attention to design details.

 

Flexibility and Bending Radius of the 3-Core Shielded Cable

 

Flexibility is an important mechanical characteristic of 3-core shielded cable , especially in non-rectilinear installations. Manufacturers specify a minimum bend radius, which must be observed during installation to avoid damaging the internal conductors or the shield. Forcing a bend that's too sharp can tear the aluminum tape or stress the conductors, compromising the cable's performance. Therefore, installers must always adhere to this specification to ensure the component's long-term physical and electrical integrity.

 

The Future and Evolution of 3-Core Shielded Cable

 

The future of 3-core shielded cables is aligned with Industry 4.0 trends. With increasing connectivity and the increasing density of electronic devices in production environments, the demand for cables with even greater noise immunity is expected to grow. Therefore, we can expect the development of new dielectric and shielding materials with superior performance. Furthermore, the integration of diagnostics into the cable itself may become a reality, allowing real-time monitoring of its integrity and further strengthening its position.

 

Troubleshooting 3-Way Shielded Cable

 

When communication failures occur, the 3-core shielded cable can be one of the sources of the problem. Diagnosis typically involves checking the continuity of the conductors with a multimeter and inspecting the shield's ground connection. A megger can be used to test the insulation resistance between the conductors and the shield. Often, the problems lie not in the cable itself, but in a poorly terminated or improper grounding. Therefore, a methodical troubleshooting process is essential to identify and correct the fault.

 

3-Way Shielded Cable and Intrinsic Safety

 

In hazardous areas with a risk of explosion, 3-core shielded cable is often used in intrinsically safe (Ex-i) circuits. In these systems, electrical energy is limited to levels that cannot ignite the local atmosphere. In this context, the cable must have specific capacitance and inductance characteristics, as well as a standardized blue outer sheath. Therefore, its correct application is key to ensuring the safety of people and facilities in potentially hazardous environments.

 

Sustainability in the Production of 3-Core Shielded Cable

 

Sustainability has become a relevant factor in the cable industry. Manufacturers of 3-core shielded cables are increasingly seeking to use recyclable materials and production processes with a lower environmental impact. This includes the use of halogen-free thermoplastic compounds (LSZH – Low Smoke Zero Halogen), which, in the event of a fire, emit little smoke and do not generate toxic gases. Consequently, choosing a cable with a sustainable appeal can be a key differentiator for companies with environmentally responsible policies.

 

Conclusion: The Smart Choice for Critical Systems

 

In short, 3-core shielded cable is much more than just a set of wires; it's a precision-engineered component. Its ability to protect signal integrity in harsh environments makes it indispensable for modern industry. From selection based on standards and technical specifications to careful installation, each step is crucial to extracting maximum performance. For engineers, installers, and students, mastering this cable's knowledge ultimately means designing and maintaining more robust, reliable, and safe systems.

Research and Knowledge Centers

In order to stand out and lead through state -of -the -art research, InnovCable closely follows the advances and innovations developed by important centers of excellence and research in the electricity sector, with special attention to the area of cables, both in Brazil and in the international scenario.

Next, we present some of the main centers of knowledge that are a reference for our work:

 Innovcable Knowledge Bases

Databases and academic search mechanisms

 

Prominent journals and journals

  • IEEE TRANSACTIONS ON POWER SYSTEMS: (Available through IEEE XPLORE)
  • IEEE TRANSACTIONS ON POWER DELIVERY: (Available through IEEE XPLORE)
  • IEEE TRANSACTIONS ON COMMUNICATIONS: (Available through IEEE XPLORE)
  • Telecommunications Magazine (Inatel): INATEL
  • Control & Automation Magazine (SBA): SBA
  • Directory of Open Access Journals (DOAJ): DOAJ

 

Institutional repositories and research groups

  • Brazilian Digital Library of Theses and Dissertations (BDTD): BDTD
  • GEPOC – Power Electronics and Control Group (UFSM): GEPOC

 

Technical standards entities

These organizations are responsible for developing and publishing the standards that guarantee the safety, quality and interoperability of electrical cables and communication.

  • ABNT (Brazilian Association of Technical Standards): It is the National Forum of Standardization in Brazil. ABNT standards, such as NBR 5410 (low voltage electrical installations), are fundamental for any project in the country.
  • IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission): The International Electrical Commission is the world leading organization in the elaboration and publication of international standards for all electrical, electronic and related technologies. Many ABNT standards are based on IEC standards.
  • ISO (International Organization for Standardization): Although it is a standardization organization for a wide range of industries, ISO also publishes relevant rules for the cable sector, especially related to Quality Management Systems (ISO 9001).
  • UL (Underwriters Laboratories): A global security science organization, well known for its product certifications. UL standards are an important security reference, especially for products for the US market.
  • Aunt (Telecommunications Industry Association): Main Association for the Information and Communication Technology Industry (ICT). Develops structured cabling standards, such as the ASI/TIA-568 series, which are a world reference for communication networks.

 

Associations, unions and regulatory entities

These organizations represent the interests of industry, promote quality and regulate the sector.

  • Anatel (National Telecommunications Agency): It is the regulator of the telecommunications sector in Brazil. Anatel is responsible for approving and certification of telecommunications products, including network cables and fiber optics.
  • Sindicel (Union of the Industry of Electrical Driver, Treflation and Lamination of Non -Ferrous Metals of the State of São Paulo): It represents industries in the sector, acting in defense of their interests and promoting actions to combat the illegal cable market.
  • Qualifio (Brazilian Association for the Quality of Electric Wires and Cables): Entity that monitors the quality of the electricized wires and cables sold in Brazil, maintaining a list of approved and non -compliance manufacturers.
  • Abinee (Brazilian Association of Electric and Electronic Industry): It represents the electrical and electronic sectors nationally, acting on several fronts, including standardization and regulation issues.
  • BICSI: A global professional association that supports the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) community. Provides education, certifications and publications of standards for design and installation of cabling systems.
  • International Cablemakers Federation (ICF): Global Forum that brings together the CEOs of the world's leading wire and cable companies to discuss industry trends and challenges.

 

Research Giants: Ponta Universities in Brazil in the area of Electric Cables and Communication

Brazil has a robust ecosystem of public universities that are true references in research and development in the areas of electrical and communication engineering. Several of them house state -of -the -art laboratories and international recognition research groups that act directly with power cable themes, optical fibers, dielectric materials and communication systems.

Next, we highlight some of the top first -line universities and their respective centers of excellence on the subject:

1. State University of Campinas (Unicamp)

Main focus: Optical and photonic communications

Considered one of the largest telecommunications innovation centers in Latin America, Unicamp, especially through its Faculty of Electrical and Computing Engineering (FEEC) and the Gleb Wataghin Institute of Physics (IFGW), is an absolute leader in optical fiber research and communication systems. Proximity and historical collaboration with CPQD (Telecommunications Research and Development Center) solidifies its position.

  • Laboratories and prominent groups:
    • Optical and Microwave Communications Laboratory (Lapcom): Focused on research of optical amplifiers, doped fibers and electromagnetic wave propagation.
    • Integrated Photonic Laboratory (LIF): It brings together various laboratories and researchers for the development of photonic devices, special optical fibers and communication systems.
    • Group of ultra -rarefilled phenomena and optical communications (gfurco): Performs advanced studies on optical fibers, devices and phenomena at very high transmission speeds.

 

2. Federal University of Itajubá (Unifei)

Main focus: power systems and high voltage

Unifei is a historical reference and of great prestige in electrical power systems in Brazil. Its Institute of Electrical and Energy Systems (ISEE) is one of the most important in the country, with strong performance in studies involving power cables, electrical insulation and energy transmission.

  • Laboratories and prominent groups:
    • High voltage laboratory (lat-efei): One of the most renowned in the country, performs tests and high voltage tests on cables, insulators and other electrical systems equipment. It is pioneering and fundamental for the development of the national electricity sector.
    • Institute of Electrical and Energy Systems (ISEE): It brings together various laboratories and research groups in areas such as system protection, energy quality and automation, all intrinsically linked to the performance and application of electrical cables.

 

3. University of São Paulo (USP)

Main focus: power systems, power electronics and telecommunications

USP, with its multiple campuses, has extremely strong and diverse research. Both the Polytechnic School (POLI-USP) in São Paulo and the São Carlos School of Engineering (EESC-USP) have excellence laboratories and research groups that work on cable related topics.

  • Laboratories and prominent groups:
    • High voltage laboratory (EESC-USP): Located in São Carlos, it works in the study of high voltage phenomena, insulating materials and electrical discharges.
    • Research Laboratory in Electrical Systems Protection and Automation (POLI-USP): Develops research in electrical systems protection, where modeling and cable behavior in absences are essential.
    • Telecommunications Laboratory (EESC-USP): With groups dedicated to microwave and optics, develops research relevant to the communication cables area.

 

4. Federal University of Santa Catarina (UFSC)

Main focus: power electronics and energy systems

UFSC is a hub of excellence recognized worldwide in power electronics. Developed research is crucial for cable application to energy conversion systems, engines and renewable sources connection.

  • Laboratories and prominent groups:
    • Institute of Power Electronics (INEP): One of the most productive research groups in the world in the area. Develops state -of -the -art technology for converters and power inverters, which connect through cables to various loads and sources.

 

5. Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG)

Main focus: Telecommunications and Applied Electromagnetism

UFMG has a consolidated postgraduate program in Electrical Engineering, with research groups relevant to the area of communication and electromagnetism, which give the theoretical and applied base for the development of cable and wave guides technologies.

  • Laboratories and prominent groups:
    • Department of Electronic Engineering (DELT): It has research laboratories in telecommunications and networks, where it is studied from fiber optic communication to wireless communication systems, which often depend on a robust wable infrastructure.

 

 

Research Institutes

National scenario

 

1. CPQD (Telecommunications Research and Development Center) - Brazil

Main focus: Information and Communication Technologies (ICT)

Headquartered here in Campinas, CPQD is the largest ICT Research Institute in Latin America and a key piece in the history of Brazilian telecommunications. It develops from optical component technology to full software and hardware platforms for 5G/6G networks, IoT and cyber security. For a communication engineer, it is a mandatory reference.

  • Relevant areas and platforms:
    • Optical communications: Poor research on photonic devices, special optical fibers and high capacity transmission systems.
    • Wireless connectivity: Systems development and testing for 5G, 6G and Open Ran.
    • Validation and tests: Accredited laboratories for testing and equipment certification, including cables and components, for compliance with Anatel standards.

 

2. CEPEL (Electricity Research Center) - Brazil

Main focus: generation, transmission and distribution of electricity

CEPEL is the research arm of the Eletrobras Group and the largest electrical research institute of the southern hemisphere. Its performance is vital to the safety and evolution of the National Interconnected System (SIN). CEPEL research on high voltage equipment, materials and systems have a direct impact on the specifications and operation of power cables.

  • Areas and prominent groups:
    • EQUIPMENT AND MATERIAL LABORATORY (LEM): Performs high voltage tests and high current in cables, transformers and other active electrical system.
    • Transmission Technologies: Research applied on transmission lines, substations and high voltage equipment, including cable behavior under extreme conditions.

 

3. Inmetro (National Institute of Metrology, Quality and Technology) - Brazil

Main focus: scientific and industrial metrology, compliance assessment

Although first a regulatory and metrology entity, Inmetro has very high level laboratories that conduct research to establish the country's measurement standards. Its scientific metrology and technology board is critical to ensuring that rehearsals in cables and other products are accurate and reliable throughout Brazil.

  • Areas and prominent groups:
    • Electric Metrology Laboratory (Label): Responsible for maintaining and disseminating national standards for electrical quantities, base for all cable tests.

 

International scenario

 

1. Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft-Germany

Main focus: Applied research in multiple areas of engineering

Fraunhofer society is the largest applied research organization in Europe, with 76 institutes scattered throughout Germany. Each institute has a specific focus, and several are world references in the areas of communication and energy.

  • Prominent institutes:
    • FRAUNHOFER INSTITUTE FOR TELECOMMUNICATIONS (Heinrich Hertz Institute - HHI): World leader in fiber optic networks, photonic components, video compression (creators of patterns such as H.264/stroke and H.265/HEVC) and wireless communication.
    • FRAUNHOFER INSTITUTE FOR ENERGY ECONOMICS AND ENERGY SYSTEM TECHNOLOGY (IEE): Focused on energy transition, develops technology for renewable integration, smart networks and stability of power systems.

 

2. NIST (National Institute of Standards and Technology) - USA

Main focus: science of measurement, standards and technology

North American equivalent of Inmetro, but with an even more comprehensive performance in fundamental and applied research. The NIST is crucial for US technological development, creating standards and measurement technologies that allow innovation throughout the industry.

  • Laboratories and prominent groups:
    • Communications Technology Laboratory (CTL): Develops fundamental research in metrology for 5G/6G networks, network resilience and quantum communication.
    • Material Measurement Laboratory (MML): Conducts research on material properties, including polymers used in cable isolation and advanced electronics materials.

 

3. NIC (National Institute of Information and Communications Technology) - Japan

Main focus: Information and Communication Technologies

NICT is Japan's main public research institute in the ICT area. It is known for its record -compliance with fiber optic transmission, having shown the highest transmission rates in the world on several occasions, as well as strong research on quantum and security networks.

  • Prominent groups and initiatives:

4.

Main focus: microelectronics, nanotechnology and photonic in silicon

Leti is an institute of the Commissioner of Atomic Energy and Alternative Energy (CEA) of France and a global leader in miniaturization of technologies. They are pioneers in “photonic silicon”, which seeks to integrate optical components directly into silicon chips, a revolution for short and medium distance communications.

  • Prominent groups and initiatives:

These institutions represent the forefront of academic research in the sector, training highly qualified professionals and developing technology that drives the entire cable industry.

InnovCable
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