The Ultimate 101 Guide: Everything you need to know about Submersible Cable

Are you worried about finding a suitable submersible pump cable, not knowing what a submersible pump cable is, and not knowing how to choose the right submersible pump cable. Don’t worry, we will provide a 101 guide for beginners, covering all relevant knowledge.

Choosing the appropriate submersible pump cable and appropriate size is crucial for the efficient and reliable operation of the submersible pump. Among them, the waterproof performance of the submersible pump cable is particularly important because it works in humid environments or underwater for a long time. In addition, the selection of materials and manufacturing processes directly affects the service life and cost-effectiveness of submersible pump cables, and the small size of submersible pump cables can also affect the performance of submersible pumps. Therefore, choosing the correct submersible pump cable is crucial.

Tullyn is a reliable supplier for such cable. We will provide comprehensive information on how to choose the appropriate submersible pump cable in this guide. Let’s find out everything you need to know about these submersible cables.

What is the submersible cable?

Submersible cable is a type of cable that transmits electrical current to pumps that are underwater water or in wet conditions. Submersible pump cable is a highly specialized, waterproof, pressure resistant, corrosion-resistant, wear-resistant, and reliable electrical cable. It cannot be replaced by ordinary wires or land cables. Using the wrong cable can lead to rapid cable damage, water pump failure, leakage risk, and even safety accidents. Choosing the appropriate submersible pump cable is crucial for ensuring the safe, reliable, and long-term operation of the submersible pump system.

Where can we use this submersible pump cable?

You can use the submersible pump cable in the following applications:

Deep well water intake (household, agricultural irrigation, industrial water supply)

Pumping water from shallow wells, ponds, and rivers

Sewage treatment plant

Mine drainage

Sea water lifting (special attention should be paid to salt corrosion resistance)

Fountain system

groundwater pumping,

fire fighting

borehole drilling,

Construction site foundation pit drainage, etc.

What is the difference between 2 and 3 cores of submersible pump cable?

3-cores submersible pump cable contains a neutral wire, while 2-cores submersible pump cable does not have a neutral wire.

Type of submersible pump cable

There are two types of submersible pump cables, flat type and round type. Each type of submersible pump cable has its unique features and advantages, allowing users to choose the most suitable type based on their own requirements and environmental conditions.

1. Flat Submersible Pump Cable

Flat submersible pump cable, as the name suggests, refers to a type of flat submersible cable. It is usually composed of multiple insulated cable strands, with an additional layer of waterproof insulation material on the outside. The shape of this submersible cable is flat, which allows it to better fit the seabed terrain when laid underwater, providing better concealment and protection. Submersible flat cables are mainly used for data transmission, communication, and energy transmission on the seabed.

Flat submersible pump cables, also can be used where needs narrow pipelines or spaces, are typically used in applications that require compact and low profile design. When traditional circular cables may not be suitable due to space limitations, these cables are usually used. Due to its unique shape, flat cables may have advantages in specific installation scenarios, providing flexibility and ease of handling. They provide a practical solution for installations with limited space.

flat submersible pump cable

2. Round Submersible Pump Cable

The round submersible pump cable has a traditional cylindrical shape and structure, consisting of multiple insulated wires and covered with waterproof insulation material. Their diameter is larger than typical flat cables. This is because the conductors inside the cable are arranged in a circular pattern, rather than parallel arrangement like flat submersible pump cables. This makes this round submersible pump more stable, wear-resistant, very flexible, and easy to install in various environments. They are easier to bend and install, making them a reliable choice for powering submersible pumps in various applications.

3. Twist the submersible pump cable

Composed of twisted wires, it can improve durability and performance. It is suitable for typical light and medium submersible pumps.

4. Armored submersible pump cable

It enhances armor and provides additional protection in harsh conditions. Armored structures provide enhanced mechanical protection against physical damage, wear, and crushing. Therefore, these cables are suitable for harsh and demanding environments.

 4 Things to consider when choosing the submersible pump cables

1. Comparative analysis of material characteristics

Rubber cable: with IP68 waterproof performance, tensile strength of over 10N/mm ², oil and acid corrosion resistance, suitable for working environments ranging from -40 ℃ to 90 ℃

PVC cable: Low cost but poor flexibility, long-term immersion can easily cause insulation layer hydrolysis, only recommended for temporary land use.

2. Principle of electrical parameter matching

A). Selection of cross-sectional area:

2.5mm ² cable: generally suitable for low-power, low-voltage submersible pumps, suitable for environments with depths not exceeding 50 meters. For example, submersible pumps with a power below 0.37kW can use 2.5mm ² cables.

4mm ² cable: For submersible pumps with power ranging from 0.37kW to 1.5kW, it is recommended to choose a 4mm ² cable to ensure the cable’s load-bearing capacity and operational stability.

6mm ² cable: When the power of the submersible pump is greater than 1.5kW, it is recommended to choose a 6mm ² cable to ensure the safety and stability of the submersible pump system during operation.

B). Voltage level: 380V submersible pumps must use 0.6/1kV cables, and 220V equipment can use 300/500V cables

3. Environmental adaptability optimization plan

1. Deep well application: Install stainless steel braided layer protection, with a water pressure resistance strength of ≥ 1MPa
2. Corrosive environment: Use CPErubber outer sheath to improve salt spray resistance by 300%
3. Flowing water area: equipped with Kevlar tensile fiber, with a fracture elongation controlled within 25%

4. Key points of economic evaluation

The calculation of the full life-cycle cost should include:

initial purchase price,

5-year replacement frequency,

and fault maintenance costs

Although the unit price of high-quality rubber cables is 30% higher, their service life can be more than three times that of PVC cables.

By systematically considering indicators such as conductivity, mechanical strength, and environmental tolerance, the use of cross-sectional grading selection method can ensure a 20% safety margin for cable current carrying capacity. Regular insulation resistance testing (with a requirement of ≥ 100M Ω) can effectively prevent leakage accidents.

Do submersible pump cables have any drawbacks?

yes; Submersible pump cables have various drawbacks, including:

Compared to non submersible pump cables, they are very expensive.

Their structure minimizes their application to a harsh environment.

The installation process is technical and requires qualified personnel.

Are you looking for a reliable manufacturer of submersible pump cables?

Choosing the appropriate submersible pump cable can maximize the performance and lifespan of the pump. Factors such as motor horsepower, voltage requirements, operating environment, and safety considerations should considered when selecting the submersible cable. We also shared basic knowledge about these cable types. Choosing the appropriate cable type based on specific application requirements is crucial. By following this guide, you can confidently select and determine the size of submersible pump cables based on your specific application needs, providing efficient and fault free operation for submersible pump systems.

For your information, please kindly check below our submersible pump cable.

1.Round type submersisble cable
2.Flat type submersisble cable