The ins and outs of battery cables

Like solar cables, battery cables are a crucial part of the electrical system. Battery cables are used to transfer electric currents from the batteries of a vehicle to the entire vehicle. A battery cable is made up of several wires that are encased in a synthetic material. The battery cable features different battery terminals on both ends to allow for a reliable connection. Battery cables can also be used for connecting electrodes to welding equipment as well as charger machines. These cables are also very useful in tooling constructions, the automobile market as well as shipbuilding. Battery cables are very similar to welding cables. In this post, we discuss battery cables in depth.

Uses of battery cables

• Battery cables can only be used for applications that use less than 60 volts of power
• These cables are used to transfer electric currents between elements of vehicle batteries and other aspects of vehicles
• Battery cables can be used to connect the batteries of cars to vehicle starters
• Battery cables are most suitable for applications where no sharp curves are involved as well as those with a direct shot to the source of power. 
• Battery cables are also applied in a variety of industries including the welding industry hence the comparisons between welding cables and battery cables

Features of battery cables

Jacket protection

Battery cables feature a smooth layer of thermoplastic polyvinyl chloride. This coating helps to protect the cable from cracking, abrasion, elements of the weather, oil, and other acidic factors. 

Flame resistance

Typical battery cables meet the UL-558 and UL-553 standards. This means that they are resistant to flame hence useful in their applications. 

Water resistance

Like welding cables, battery cables are resistant to water. In addition to this element, these cables are also resistant to grease and oil. 

Sturdiness

Battery cables feature a very sturdy design that protects them from cuts, tears, and other forms of damages. Battery cables are also well protected from other elements that may cause accidents.

Changing battery cables from vehicles

Every once in a while, battery cables need to be changed in vehicles. Before embarking on the task of changing battery cables, the first and most crucial step would be to wear protective gloves. It is also very essential to ensure that the vehicle is turned off. This is because tampering with battery cables when the car is ignited could result in electric shocks. The next step would be to locate the battery and determine the positive and negative terminals. Once that is done, you can now remove the old or damaged battery cables and replace them with new ones.

Bottom Line

In cold conditions, battery cables do not function as effectively as needed. This is because of the impact that the temperature has on the flexibility of the wires. In comparison to other types of wires like welding cables, battery cables are cheaper and more cost-efficient. In addition to this, battery cables come in different forms. There are two main types of battery cables. These types are the SGT battery cables and SGC battery cables.