Cable oversheath selection: The right material for the right application

The oversheath (jacket) of a cable provides the first line of defence for the cable during transportation, installation and throughout its life. As such the oversheath is an integral part of the cable system and choosing the appropriate material is essential to protect the cable throughout its life. This paper reviews the range of oversheath materials in use today by utilities, and will focus on which are most appropriate in particular situations. A particular emphasis will be placed on benefits of modern halogen free flame retardant (HFFR) compounds as an alternative to PVC.