The effect of sunlight on PVC

Sunlight and in particular the UV light spectrum frequency can cause the chemcial bonds of PVC to break. In addition, the heating caused by direct light can impact current carrying capacity and cause plasticisers in PVC to migrate out of the compound causing increased britleness and likelihood of cracks forming. Both of these effects may expose the conductor and result in cable failure.
So what can we do do minimise the impacts?
• Avoid direct sunlight exposure
• Use black coloured sheath materials which counteract the effects of UV.

Not all doom and gloom...
In many cases, decolouration is expected and degradation is limited only to the surface of the conductor. Some PVC compounds can continue to have long life expectancies in light of such surface degradation provided the insulated cores are not exposed.
Did you know? Nexans Olex products manufactured at Lilydale, Victoria have been independently reviewed for
their Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) systems, PVC resin production, manufacturing processes & end of life management.
The review confirmed that all Nexans Olex PVC products are compliant with Best Practice Principles.