High-temperature wires are used in elevated temperature environments that are too hot for standard wire insulation to be effective. The proper choice of high-temperature wire depends on the application, with the two most common types being silicone insulated and Teflon insulated wires. So which ones are the best choice for you – silicone or Teflon wires?
Temperature range
Silicone wires are resistant to a temperature range of -60°C to 200°C. They have good flexibility, durability, and chemical resistance, but they are not flame retardants.
Teflon insulated wires have a temperature range of -60°C to 260°C. Teflon insulated wires can be used in high-temperature applications that require excellent thermal conductivity and insulation properties, such as heaters and solar panels. They are also used for low-temperature applications, such as refrigeration equipment.
Environmental influence
Teflon and silicone are not flame retardants, which is required by the National Electric Code (NEC) for most applications. The NEC requires flame-retardant insulation in enclosed locations where flammable gases or vapors may be present.
If a high-temperature wire is exposed to open flame, the insulation material will burn and emit toxic fumes. This can be prevented by using a fireproofed version of either Teflon or silicone insulation.
Can you make them fireproof?
The Teflon insulating material can be made fireproof by adding another layer of Teflon over it. The added layer will melt before the base insulation, thus preventing toxic fumes from being emitted in case of fire exposure.
Also, there are some silicone wires that can be fireproofed so that they can meet NEC requirements. This is more expensive than Teflon wire and requires more time and effort because it must be done before the silicone jacket is put on. But, it does give you a better result when you’re working with high-temperature applications.
So then, which one to choose – silicone or Teflon wires?
Using the proper choice of wire depends on the application. Silicone insulated wires are best suited to stable temperatures and Teflon insulated wires are better suited to rapidly fluctuating temperatures.
In case you are still not certain which ones you should use, you can contact the versatile cable distributor in Canada and US for more information. Or you could simply hire a professional to do the work for you.
Given the importance of this kind of work, and all the dangers of improperly done electrical installations, in general – we recommend contacting certified professionals.
It just might save you from injury, material damage, and other unpleasant occurrences.
Doing your own repairs is only fun if you know what you are doing.
Conclusion
Silicone insulated wires are best suited where stable temperatures are present, and Teflon insulated wires are better suited to rapidly fluctuating temperatures. Silicone is flame resistant, while Teflon is not. With these considerations in mind, the proper choice of wire will be the one that best meets your specific application needs.