Re: [CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO] Plenum Cable?

In a message dated 3/24/00 10:46:12 AM Hawaiian Standard Time,
jvicars@... writes:

<< Plenum Cable" from MSC. It is 18ga. ,
6 conductor, but the insulation looks mighty thin. Does anyone know
what this stuff is for and can I use it for wiring my unipolar steppers
at 5 amps/phase?? >>
Joe,

Plenum cable is a class 2 power limited cable. It is most often used for
air conditioner control or alarm and access control applications. You can
also get cat 5 or cat 3 commmunication cable in plenum rating. And oh yes,
fire alarm cable. Plenem rated cable has a certain smoke and flamability
index that allows it to be used in the plenum ceilings of commercial
buildings. Most times, the jacket is made of some high temp plastic and the
insulation on the individual wires are teflon. Usually pretty expensive if
you get the teflon. There are lower cost versions made of I don't know what.
They are usually a coarse multi strand so they will not stand a lot of
flexing. If you do use it for a CNC application, try to get the shielded
version to control emf radiation. 18 Ga is plenty for 5 amps as long as the
run is fairly short.

Peter
THRD, Inc.