Type W vs. Type G Cables

The Type W and Type G power cables are very similar. These industrial-strength power cables suit nearly the same applications. They can be used in many homes and job sites to power machinery.

Both cable types have 2,000-volt-rated rubber insulation. They are rugged enough to be run over by trucks and dragged across rocky areas. Despite their many resemblances, these cables differ in a couple of areas. Explore the differences between Type W and Type G power cables.

What Is a Type W Power Cable?

Type W cables are durable, portable power cords. Multi-conductor Type W cables are suitable for temporary power supply applications, while single-conductor cables can provide permanent power supply. With multiple sizes and protective features, these versatile cables accommodate a variety of heavy-duty environments.

Type W cables can include up to five conductors. They have no additional ground wires. There is a same-size green wire in three conductor cables and higher. The different colors help identify each wire.

Type W Power Cable Applications

Type W cables deliver reliable performance in demanding environments, making them ideal for applications where they could get rolled over or stepped on. Unlike Type G cables, Type W power cables have a single-conductor feature, equipping them for a broader range of portable power applications.

Here are some common uses for Type W power cables:

• Light- to medium-duty mining applications
• AC systems
• Temporary power for mobile and portable electronic equipment
• Permanent wiring for heavy equipment
• Warehouse power supply
• Welding applications
• Entertainment industry applications (spotlights, stage lighting, video systems, mobile communications vans, sound systems, etc.)

The cable’s rubber jacket can withstand severe environmental conditions and exposure to oils, acids, alkalis, heat, moisture and most chemicals. This cable really can handle anything, making it perfect for messy and hazardous industrial settings.

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What Are Type G and G-GC Power Cables?

Type G and Type G-GC cables are portable power cables commonly used for power supply. They have small grounding wires for each conductor. If there are three main conductors, there are also three smaller ground wires. If there are four main conductors, there are four smaller ground wires.

The “GC” stands for “ground check.” The G-GC cables are known for having excellent impact resistance. They are made with a cable core bound for superior flexibility and toughness. They also have a rope lay stranding to maximize the cable’s flex life.

While Type G and G-GC cables are mostly identical, one characteristic sets them apart. Type G power cables have four conductors and four green ground wires. Meanwhile, Type G-GC power cables have one yellow ground check and two green ground wires, which grow in size as the cable increases in American Wire Gauge (AWG). They have three conductors with three additional ground wires.

The ground check is a built-in safety mechanism to ensure the equipment is completely grounded. The “G” in Type G indicates it only has ground wires, while G-GC means “ground with ground check.”

Type G and G-GC Power Cable Applications

Types G and G-GC power cables provide temporary portable power in industrial applications. Some typical uses for these cables include mining pumps and equipment, conveyors, shuttle cars and heavy-duty power supply cables.

They’re instrumental as power supply cables requiring grounding. Additionally, they’re ideal where a ground check conductor is needed for ground monitoring.

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What’s the Difference Between Type W and Type G Power Cables?

The ground wires are the main difference between Type W and Type G power cables. The Type W cables do not have additional ground wires, while the Type G cables do. The wires inside the cable are colored and have numbers imprinted on them to indicate conductor and ground wire specifications.

Other than the ground wires, these cables are generally very similar. As mentioned, they both have a voltage rating of 2,000. They’re both considered some of the sturdiest industrial power cables on the market. Here are some other similarities between them:

• Rated for temperatures of 40 to 90 degrees Celsius
• Premium grade EPDM rubber insulation
• Compliant with most United States industry standards, including Canadian Standards Association Group, Underwriters Laboratories, Restriction of Hazardous Substances, and Mine Safety and Health Administration
• Suitable for heavy-duty applications, like oil drilling platforms, mining equipment, electrical equipment, motors and batteries
• Ideal for water submersion and industrial marine applications
• Sturdy rubber jackets resistant to air, weather, abrasion, UV light, fire, oil, water, mechanical impact and industrial chemicals
• Fully annealed, flexible copper strands

Order Your Power Cables From WesBell Electronics Today

Whether you need Type W, G or G-GC cables for your next wiring project, you can find the solutions you need at WesBell Electronics. We’re your one-stop shop for bulk cable, wire and tubing products, providing off-the-shelf and custom order options.

We also offer various wire preparation services, including cutting, twisting, harness assembly and more, helping you save time and money in production. If you’re unsure what cable type your project requires, our experienced technicians are happy to help you out.

When you choose WesBell Electronics for wire products and preparation, you’ll receive outstanding service from knowledgeable representatives. Check out our available Type W and G power cables, or contact our team with any questions!