SY control cable
An SY control cable is a flexible instrumentation cable designed for measuring, control or regulation in the field of process automation.[1] It is a highly flexible multicore cable, with (class 5) copper conductors and a galvanised steel wire braid (GSWB) for mechanical protection. The cable is typically manufactured with PVC insulation, bedding and a transparent PVC sheath.[2] The transparent sheath means signs of deterioration, damage or corrosion can be detected with ease.
SY has a voltage rating of 300/500V and meets the requirements of both BS6500[3] and VDE0250 standards.
Uses
As well as automation and process control, SY Control Cable is used in the rail and transport industry, building and construction, and transmission, distribution and power networks. Found on assembly and production lines, conveyors, in computer units and machine tool manufacture, SY Cable is designed for use in fixed installations and as an interconnecting cable between fixed and mobile equipment.
Origin of the name SY
In CENELEC[4] code – the European Committee for Electrotechnical Standardisation – the S in SY stands for steel wire braid, and the Y for PVC. SY Control Cable can be referred to more generally as Instrumentation Cable, Flexible or Braided Control Cable and Control Flex.
CY and YY Control Cables
There are three different types of Control Cable in the area of process automation: CY, YY and SY Cable. With its GSWB braid SY is suited to installations with medium to high mechanical stress. YY and CY Control Cable are very similar in construction, but without the mechanical protection provided by the steel wire. YY is a versatile cable that works well in environments with only light mechanical stress and CY Cable has a tinned copper wire braid and polyester binder tape, which provide protection against external electromagnetic influences.