What types of insulation are on automotive wire?

There are two main categories of automotive wire PVC and Cross-Linked. The biggest
difference between the two categories is temperature range. Cross-linked automotive wire can
withstand much higher temperatures than PVC automotive wire.
The three main types of PVC automotive wire are:
1. GPT - used for general circuit wiring and rated to 80 C
2. TWP - lead-free, thin wall automotive wire rated to 105 C
3. HDT - heavy wall automotive wiring rated to 80 C
PVC is insulation is extruded, which is created by heating PVC and then extruding it through
a die on the stranding. This insulation can be melted with a heat source, changing the form.
The three most common types of cross-linked automotive wire are:
1. GXL thin wall, most common type, works with most standard automotive
connectors, rated to 125 C
2. SXL standard wall, rated to 125 C
3. TXL extra thin wall, best for applications that require minimal size and weight,
rated to 125 C
Cross-linked insulation is created by extruding the material through a tube, under heat and
pressure, in order to 'cross-link' or change the molecules of the insulation to another state.
Click here to watch our video on automotive wire or read the transcript!

How do you determine the Gauge (AWG) of the automotive wire?

Make a small cut about 1/2" long and remove the insulation on the automotive wire. Then
you will need to count the individual strands of copper. Next use a micrometer and measure
one of the strands. Also count the total number of strands that are present in the automotive
wire. Look at the following information to determine the gauge of your automotive wire.
7/28 = 20 (7 strands of 28 gauge equals 20 gauge)
16/30 = 18 AWG
19/29 = 16 AWG
19/27 = 14 AWG

19/25 = 12 AWG
19/23 = 10 AWG
19/21 = 8 AWG
37/21 = 6 AWG

What are some of the different types of battery cable?

Battery cable is large automotive cable. Like smaller types of automotive wire, it is available
in PVC and cross-linked forms. One type of PVC battery cable is SGT cable. It is rated to
80C. SGT can be used in starters or battery grounds.
Cross-linked battery cables can also be used in starter and battery ground applications, but
they are more resistant to heat, abrasion, and aging than PVC cable. Two types of crosslinked battery cable are SGX and STX. They are rated to 125C. Of the three types of battery
cable, STX has the thinnest wall, making it a popular choice for automotive applications with
limited space.

How can I customize my automotive wire?

AWC offers several customization services for automotive wire. Both PVC and cross- linked
automotive wire can be printed with custom text or company logos. They can also be striped.
Up to three stripes, called tracers, can be added to the cables jacket. Both striping and
printing make your automotive wire easy to identify, saving you time. PVC automotive wire
may also be dyed for easy identification.

What are other common types of automotive wire and cable and what kinds of
applications are they used for?

Aside from the automotive primary wire and battery cable mentioned above, trailer cable,
automotive brake cable, ignition wire, fusible link wire and SRML wire (high temperature
motor lead wire) are all considered automotive wire and cable. Trailer cable can be used on
trailers and trucks as well as in other applications where resistance to weather, oil, and grease
is necessary. SRML wire is flexible and fire resistant and can be used as motor lead wire or as
lead wire for high temperature electrical equipment applications. Automotive brake cable is
used for electric brakes in cars, trucks, and trailers. Common applications for primary wire
include general circuit wiring and wiring in engine compartments while battery cable is

intended for use in starters and battery ground circuits. Car speaker wire is designed for use
in radios, music systems, public address systems, and other low voltage applications.

What are some specifications and standards I should consider when choosing
automotive cable?

Common standards for the automotive industry include those created by the Society of
Automotive Engineers (SAE), the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM),
Underwriters Laboratories (UL), and the Recreational Vehicle Industry Association (RVIA).
All of these organizations develop standards for the automotive industry to encourage the
manufacture and use of safe and high quality automotive wire and cable. More important
specifications to consider are those set by individual car manufacturers. For instance, all of
Allieds primary wire meets both Ford and Chrysler specifications.
Courtesy : http://www.awcwire.com/faq-automotive-wire.aspx

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