Electrical Wiring and Cable Management Flashcards

What is the minimum bending radius typically required for PVC-insulated cables to prevent damage to the insulation?

Answer: 6 times the overall cable diameter

PVC-insulated cables generally require a minimum bending radius of 6 times the overall cable diameter to prevent insulation cracking or conductor damage.

Which cable color is used for the line (live) conductor in a single-phase fixed wiring installation in the US?

Answer: Brown or Black

In US fixed wiring, the line (hot) conductor is typically black or red, with brown used in newer harmonized wiring standards.

When installing cables in a wall, what is the primary reason for using a cable detection tool before drilling?

Answer: To locate hidden electrical cables and avoid electrocution

A cable detection tool identifies hidden cables behind walls to prevent drilling through live conductors, which could cause electrocution or fire.

What does the term 'derating' mean when applied to cables?

Answer: Reducing the current-carrying capacity due to environmental conditions

Derating reduces a cable's current-carrying capacity when it is grouped with other cables, installed in conduit, or subjected to high ambient temperatures.

Which of the following is an acceptable method for supporting horizontal cable runs in a commercial installation?

Answer: Cable tray with appropriate supports at specified intervals

Cable tray with correctly spaced supports provides secure, code-compliant horizontal cable management that prevents sagging and mechanical damage.

What is the purpose of cable segregation in an electrical installation?

Answer: To prevent interference between different circuit types and reduce fire risk

Cable segregation separates circuits by type (power, data, ELV) to prevent electromagnetic interference and limit fire spread between systems.