RV PVC Insulated Flexible Copper Wire
RV is a PVC insulated flexible copper wire designed for electrical
installations requiring flexibility and ease of handling. It is
widely used in household appliances, power tools, and small
electrical equipment where frequent bending or movement occurs.
Name Breakdown
- R: Flexible Copper Conductor
- V: PVC Insulation
Applications
- Household Appliances: Internal wiring for refrigerators, washing machines, air
conditioners
- Power Tools: Connections for drills, grinders, and other portable equipment
- Electronic Devices: Wiring for computers, printers, and office equipment
- Lighting Systems: Flexible connections for lamps and lighting fixtures
- Control Circuits: Secondary circuits in control panels and automation systems
Why Choose RV Cable?
- Excellent Flexibility: Ideal for applications requiring frequent bending or movement
- Easy Installation: Stranded conductor simplifies routing and termination
- Cost-Effective: Affordable solution for flexible electrical connections
- Wide Availability: Commonly used and readily available in various sizes
- Safety Compliance: Meets international electrical safety standards
RV cable is suitable for low-voltage flexible applications where
movement is expected. For wet locations or outdoor use, consider
sheathed variants like RVV. Always follow local electrical codes
and manufacturer's recommendations for specific applications.
Technical Specifications
| Nominal Section (mm²) | Number/Diameter of Core (mm) | Maximum Outer Diameter (mm) | Reference Weight (kg/km) |
|---|
| 0.3 | 16/0.15 | 2.3 | 6.4 |
| 0.4 | 23/0.15 | 2.5 | 8.1 |
| 0.5 | 16/0.2 | 2.6 | 9.1 |
| 0.75 | 24/0.2 | 2.8 | 12.2 |
| 1.0 | 32/0.2 | 3.0 | 15.1 |
| 1.5 | 30/0.25 | 3.5 | 21.4 |
| 2.5 | 49/0.25 | 4.2 | 24.5 |
| 4 | 56/0.20 | 4.5 | 51.6 |
| 6 | 84/0.30 | 6.4 | 75.1 |
| 10 | 84/0.30 | 8.0 | 12.4 |
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What does "RV" stand for in cable terminology?
- R: Stands for a flexible, stranded copper conductor (according to
international/IEC wiring codes)
- V: Stands for PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) Insulation
In short, RV is a single-core, PVC-insulated, flexible copper wire.
2. What is the primary purpose of RV wire?
RV wire is designed as a general-purpose, flexible connecting wire
for internal wiring of electrical equipment, appliances, control
panels, and machinery where frequent bending, movement, or
vibration is expected after installation.
3. What are the common voltage and temperature ratings?
- Standard Voltage Rating: 300/500 Volts
- Temperature Range: Typically -15°C to +70°C for continuous operation
- Maximum Conductor Temperature: 70°C
4. Where is RV wire most commonly used?
It is widely used for internal and fixed connections in:
- Household Appliances: Wiring inside refrigerators, washing machines, and air
conditioners
- Control Panels & Cabinets: Internal hook-up wiring for terminals, contactors, and devices
- Electrical Equipment: Internal wiring of transformers, tools, and instruments
- Low-Voltage Installations: Fixed secondary circuits in dry, indoor locations
5. Can RV wire be used for in-wall house wiring or outdoor
projects?
No. RV is NOT suitable for building power distribution (in-wall
wiring) or outdoor use. It lacks a protective outer sheath for
mechanical protection and is not rated for direct burial, damp
locations, or sunlight (UV) exposure. For house wiring, use BV/BVR
for outdoor flexible use, choose RVV.
6. What is the packaging method for this type of wire?
Stretch Film Packaging
7. What standards does RV wire comply with?
RV wire is typically manufactured to international standards such
as:
- IEC 60227 (International standard for PVC insulated cables)
- National Standards: GB/T 5023 (China), BS 6004 (UK), and others
Look for relevant safety certifications like CE, RoHS, or CCC
depending on the target market.
8. What conductor sizes (gauges) are available?
RV wire is available in a range of flexible conductor
cross-sectional areas (CSA), commonly from:
- Small: 0.5 mm², 0.75 mm² (for signal/control currents)
- Standard: 1.0 mm², 1.5 mm², 2.5 mm²
- Larger: Up to 35 mm² or more for higher current applications
9. What are the key installation guidelines?
- Environment: Dry, indoor locations only
- Bending Radius: Minimum of 5-6 times the cable diameter to avoid conductor damage
- Protection: Must be installed inside conduits, trunking, or the enclosure of
equipment for mechanical protection
- Termination: Stranded ends should be properly terminated (e.g., with ferrules)
when used in screw-type terminals to prevent fraying
10. How do I choose between RV and other wires for my project?
Follow this simple guide:
- Choose RV for flexible, internal connections inside appliances, machines, or
control panels
- Choose BV/BVR for fixed, permanent wiring inside walls or conduits in a building
- Choose RVV if you need a flexible, sheathed cable for power supply to movable
equipment or as an extension cord
Single Core Hard Copper Wire PVC Insulated Wire UL758 IEC 60227
