Wire for solar panels

Mr Red · Veteran Member

Wire for solar panels

Plendo · Guru

John,

I buy my cable, connectors, tools etc from Big Alls.

I suspect he is not the cheapest, but he has always provided excellent service.

Here is a link to the cable I use, perhaps a bit heavy, but i would rather be too heavy than too light.

http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/1M-x-6mm2-DUAL-Core-Twin-Sheath-Solar-Panel-Cable-Connector-MC4-PV-Wire-Auto-/111484602518?ssPageName=ADME:L:OU:AU:3160

PeterD · Guru

You can get a few sizes from Jaycar or most good auto electricians should be able to supply you.

Peter_n_Margaret · Guru

Make sure it is fine multi strand for best vibration resistance.
Tinned wire also improves corrosion resistance.

Cheers,
Peter

Cruising Cruze · Guru

I found that the wire ( 8B&S ) from Jaycar is of very poor quality

It's bl..dy hard to solder seems to be strange for a shop that is specialized in electronic supplies

a lesson learned

Cheers John

exa41 · Guru

I got mine from the local auto shop . I think the one you have has like an aluminium coating or simular that has to be removed , simular to the coated steel they make fuel tanks out off.

Cruising Cruze · Guru

Its only good for when you crimp the connectors on to it
and that's not the way I wanted done

Cheers John

Cloak · Guru

I used to buy rolls of fine conductor battery cable, black and red cables from L&H. Very high current and quite flexible.
I used it when we move batteries to the boot of race cars so it should be fine for solar cabling.

Marken · Veteran Member

Hi Guys

If i can put my two bobs worth in I would be careful when buying cable from an auto electrician or a similar shop.

The wiring gauge that they use, by MY experience, may say 6mm on the reel but this is the diameter of the cable INCLUDING the insulation. You will find that the conductor is only 4mm.

No amount of arguing with the young assistant, obviously not the bloke in charge, would convince him that the measurements do not add up and are not totally suitable for heavy current use.

Also please be aware, and I have read this somewhere (maybe from Collyn Rivers) that some amperages quoted for cables are their MELTING point. ie a 20A cable will melt at anything over this current.

Aus-Kiwi · Guru

Needs to be mm Squire.. Check the tables on different wire sizing..
Gauge is generally LV and automotive..
www.energymatters.com.au/panels-modules/wire-cable-size/

Knowledge speaks, but wisdom listens.