Ask the Wire Experts:
EV CHARGING STATION CABLE

CABLE IN EV CHARGING STATIONS

Commercial electric vehicle (EV) charging stations are powered by either renewable energy, fossil fuels, or utilities. Medium voltage cables are used to connect these power sources to substations and transformers. Transformers then step this down into low voltage. Low voltage cables are used to connect the transformer to switchgear to the individual charging stations—distributing the power essential to charge an EV.

While there are standards for EV infrastructure electrical design, there isn’t a universal specification outlining which cable is required. This could vary significantly from project-to-project. For example, you could use single conductors, shielded or non-shielded tray cable, or even armored cable.
 

WHAT TO FOR LOOK WHEN SELECTING CABLE

There are a number of factors to consider before selecting low voltage cable for EV charging stations. First, you need to ensure the conductors are insulated with XLPE (crosslinked polyethylene). Thermoset insulations, like XLPE, are more resistant and have far superior electrical performance characteristics than thermoplastic products (THHN/THWN-2). XLPE insulation has a greater ability to resist leakage current and can handle more spikes and in-rushes over longer periods of time.

XLPE thermoset insulated conductors can be installed underground in conduit or concrete or directly buried. This is critical to keep people safe on the EV charging station site while also protecting the cable from physical and environmental damage.

Properly sourcing wire and cable is also an important consideration. EV wire and cable used in U.S. federally funded projects must be Buy American compliant. The Federal Highway Administration announced that by July 1, 2024, they will not fund projects unless 55% of the total cost of components are made or sourced in the United States.
 

TURN TO AN EXPERIENCED WIRE & CABLE PARTNER

By partnering with Service Wire on your next project, you can rest assured that our wire and cable is compliant for EV infrastructure use. Plus, all materials are 100% sourced and manufactured in the U.S. Contact your rep for more information.
 

EV CABLE SOLUTIONS

Service Wire’s products can be used in an array of applications at an EV charging station. Our most widely used products are bare copper, ServicePro-X^® single conductors, ServicePlex^®, tray cable, and jacketed Type MC.

All of our products are insulated with XLPE crosslinked polyethylene and are Buy American compliant. With our three nationwide locations, we can supply low voltage power cable coast-to-coast—with many items available from stock with one to two-day shipping.

If you’re looking for a wire and cable partner for EV projects, turn to Service Wire. Contact your rep to learn more about our EV charging station cable products today.

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