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UV Resistant Cables

For outdoor use, electrical cables are subject to high levels of ultra-violet radiation, as well other atmospheric conditions. In principle, all plastic materials used in the manufacturing extrusion process are susceptible to oxidation. However, different types of plastic possess varying degrees of UV stability. Light and oxygen cause premature ageing of plastics as a result of photo-oxidation. The UV rays contained in sunlight penetrate the molecular chains of the cable jacket. This causes the chains to split and results in the formation of highly reactive radicals, which continue to attack the molecular structure of the plastic. The ultimate consequence of this process is that plastics age and become brittle far quicker in outdoor use. PVC cables in particular are subject to increased wear as the added volatile plasticisers or softeners in the thermoplastic polymer vaporise more quickly.

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