How long does a cable last?

This is because cables do not have an exact lifespan. It is generally acknowledged that a cable will last between 25-30 years, based on typical conditions. Although, we have seen cases where the cable far exceeds this timeframe. In fact, the copper conductor itself will be operational for far longer, potentially for 50-100 years.

However, factors including installation environment, temperature, mechanical damage and load can affect the life expectancy of a cable. Understanding these factors is essential in helping you choose the right products and plan for longevity.

An expert guide on cable design life

Prysmian engineers have put together a comprehensive guide on the life expectancy of a cable. Here’s what they have to say:

Prysmian cables will meet or exceed their design life when correctly selected and installed in accordance with appropriate regulations. The design life of Prysmian cables is in excess of 25 years. 

This design life has been assessed on a maximum loading, which is the cable running at the maximum conductor temperature (70 or 90°C, depending on insulation grade) for 24 hours a day and 365 days a year. 

If a cable is not fully loaded all of the time, then it will be expected to exceed the design life of 25 years. As the loading on any cable is likely to be variable then the cable life will similarly be variable. For example, if the cable was only loaded for 8 hours in a day, then the life expectancy could be in excess of 40 years. Conversely if the cable operates at 15°C higher than its stated maximum operating temperature then its life expectancy could be less than 5 years. 

Unfortunately, there is no definitive or simple calculation method that can be used to determine the actual life of a fixed wiring cable. Many factors are involved including:

• Presence of other circuits or heat sources and whether the cable has been derated appropriately

• Mechanical damage 

• Presence of water 

• Chemical contamination 

• Solar or infra-red radiation

• Number of overloads 

• Number of short circuits 

• Effects of harmonic

• Temperature at terminations 

• Temperature of the cable

• Installed internally or externally

• Service life load

   

Please note that any warranty that applies will be as per the agreed terms and conditions of sale between the cable purchaser and Prysmian.

As illustrated by our experts, while the design life of Prysmian cables exceeds 25 years, it is important to consider that the actual lifespan of a cable is dependent on several factors. Temperature, mechanical damage, number of short circuits, installation environment – all of these play a vital role.

Whether you are choosing cables for a new project, for an existing installation or selecting the best conductor size and insulation, you’ll want to help maximise the efficiency, safety and lifespan of a cable. 

If you have any questions or would like to know more, contact us today and speak to one of our experts.