British standard for vehicle wiring

[jack&mle]

Hi

I fit automated gate for a living and I know about sizing cable for this type of application.

What I do no know, if there is a major difference between cables used to wire an automated gate or a headlight in a car ( both are using the same amount of current).

The only reason why I should not use the same cable would be the insulation material (I don't know why but it could be a factor).

What are your opinions?

Thanks

Jack

[elwe]

I believe the insulating material in car wiring is rated to at least 120 degrees C. I don't know about general wire though.

[dangerrous]

Most up to date wiring on a production car is rated close to the drawn current tolerance, and is measured in mm2 fine strand and is usually of good quality for minimal resistance, while your domestic applications need only to accomodate general usage. I wouldn't recommend your twin and earth flex for auto looms as it's bulky. Not sure about the insulation but the previous post makes sense, the temperatures in an engine bay may be too much for domestic flex.
if you look in an RS book I'm sure it will explain the grades of insulation and wire in more detail. here's a link to them
www.rswww.com
Look under : Electrical, Automation & Cables

Edited by dangerrous on Thursday 28th September 13:35