Definition and Structural Analysis of YJLV Cables

一,Basic knowledge

1.1 YJLV Cable Core Definition

YJLV cables are power transmission cables featuring an aluminium conductor, cross-linked polyethylene insulation and a polyvinyl chloride sheath. Promoted for their 'high value for money and lightweight design', they are one of the mainstream choices for medium and low-voltage power transmission;

The full name is "Cross-linked Polyethylene Insulated Polyvinyl Chloride Sheathed Aluminium Core Power Cable". The model code is broken down as follows: YJ (Cross-linked Polyethylene Insulation), L (Aluminium Conductor), V (Polyvinyl Chloride Sheath). It is suitable for 50 Hz AC power systems operating at various voltage levels.

1.2 Core Structure and Material Properties

1. Conductor (aluminium core): Significantly lower in cost than copper cores, weighing only around 50% of copper cables of the same cross-sectional area, making it easier to transport and install; conductivity is slightly inferior to copper, so the cross-sectional area must be increased by 1–2 sizes to achieve the same current-carrying capacity; care must be taken to ensure that connection terminals are treated to prevent oxidation;
2. Insulation (cross-linked polyethylene YJ): Withstands long-term operating temperatures of up to 90°C and short-term temperatures of 130°C (far exceeding the 70°C limit of standard PVC insulation); offers excellent resistance to ageing, UV radiation and chemical corrosion; features high dielectric strength, ensuring transmission safety and reducing power loss;
3. Sheath (Polyvinyl Chloride V): Abrasion-resistant and flame-retardant (compliant with the GB/T 18380 flame-retardant standard), moisture-proof and oil-resistant, suitable for a variety of installation environments (requires conduit protection when not buried directly), providing reliable external protection for the internal structure.

4. 

1.3 YJLV Core categories 

1. By voltage rating: low voltage (0.6/1 kV, suitable for building power distribution and small-scale industrial applications), medium and high voltage (8.7/10 kV, 26/35 kV, suitable for urban power grids and large-scale projects, requiring special structural design);
2. By special properties: flame-retardant type (YJLV-ZR), fire-resistant type (YJLV-NH, with mica tape added), armoured types (YJLV22 steel tape armoured, YJLV32 fine steel wire armoured, suitable for direct burial and corrosive environments);
3. By application: general-purpose, photovoltaic-specific (UV/high-temperature resistant, suitable for photovoltaic power station busbars), rail transport-specific (Class A flame-retardant/fire-resistant, suitable for underground railways and airports).

 二,Key Specifications and Performance

2.1 YJLV Cable Key technical specifications

1. Voltage ratings: 0.6/1 kV (standard low voltage), 8.7/10 kV, 26/35 kV (medium and high voltage);
2. Conductor specifications: Common cross-sectional areas (10 mm² to 400 mm²), available in single-core and multi-core (4-core, 5-core) configurations;
3. Temperature resistance: Continuous operating temperature 90°C, short-circuit withstand temperature 250°C (for up to 5 seconds);
4. Mechanical properties: Bending radius ≥ 15 times the cable outer diameter to prevent mechanical damage to the insulation;
5. Current-carrying capacity: Approximately 75–80% of that of copper cables (YJV) for the same cross-sectional area; the cross-sectional area must be adjusted according to the current load (refer to GB/T 16895.15);
6. Standards and specifications: GB/T 12706.1-2020 (Chinese National Standard), IEC 60502 (International Standard); international certifications such as CE and UL can be provided to meet export requirements

2.2 YJLV Cable Key Performance Benefits 

1. Excellent value for money: costing only 60%–70% of copper cables of the same specification, significantly reducing initial project investment, making it particularly suitable for projects involving large cross-sections and long-distance installations;
2. Lightweight: its low weight facilitates installation at height, across large spans and in vertical shafts, reducing labour and equipment costs;
3. Stable and durable: Inherits the excellent properties of cross-linked polyethylene insulation, offering resistance to ageing and corrosion, a long service life, and reduced long-term operational and maintenance costs;
4. High adaptability to different scenarios: Through a range of variants, it can be adapted to various installation environments (direct burial, cable trenches, tunnels) and performance requirements (flame-retardant, fire-resistant).

2.3 A comparison with the core of copper cable (YJV) 

三,YJLV Cable Key application scenarios

1. Industrial sector: feeders to factory power distribution panels and main distribution lines in industrial estates, with the YJLV22 steel-tape armoured type being the preferred choice (for protection against mechanical damage);
2. Construction sector: Main distribution trunk lines in buildings, installation in vertical shafts of high-rise buildings (with notable weight-saving advantages), and concealed installation in residential and commercial buildings;
3. Renewable energy sector: PV power station busbars (select PV-specific types), wind farm power distribution, helping to reduce costs and improve efficiency in renewable energy projects;
4. Transport infrastructure: Metro and airport power distribution systems (select Class A flame-retardant/fire-resistant types), power supply for tunnel lighting;
5. Projects prioritising cost-effectiveness: Various fixed installation projects with limited budgets and moderate current loads requiring a replacement for copper cables (YJV).

   

 四,FAQ

Q: What is the service life of YJLV cables?

A: With proper installation and maintenance, the service life can exceed 30 years, which is broadly comparable to that of YJV cables;

Q: Can YJLV cables be used as a substitute for YJV cables?

A: This depends on the current-carrying capacity and the specific application; they can be used as a substitute in fixed installations involving large cross-sections or where cost is a key consideration, but are not recommended for applications involving high current-carrying capacities or sensitive equipment;

Q: What are the key maintenance points for YJLV cables?

A: Regularly inspect the terminals for oxidation, address any poor contact issues promptly, and avoid prolonged operation under overload conditions;

Q: What certifications are required for YJLV cables intended for export?

A: CE certification is required for export to the EU, and UL certification is required for export to the US. We can provide the relevant certification reports according to the target market.