Drain Wire / Copper Wire Electrical Power Wires
Last Updated: April 1, 2025
Description
Drain wires are a component of shielded electrical power cables. They are typically made of copper and serve as a grounding conductor within the cable. The primary function of a drain wire is to provide a path to ground for any electrical noise that is captured by the cable's shielding, thereby enhancing the overall electromagnetic compatibility of the cable system.
Working Principle
The drain wire works by being in contact with the shielding material, which is often made of metal braiding, tape, or foil. This shielding surrounds the insulated conductors within the cable and acts as a barrier to electromagnetic interference (EMI). The drain wire is connected to the ground, allowing any noise or interference captured by the shield to be safely conducted away from the signal-carrying wires. This process helps to maintain the integrity of the transmitted signals by minimizing the impact of external electromagnetic fields.
Applications
Drain wires are commonly used in environments where electromagnetic interference is a concern. For example, they are often found in industrial settings where machinery and equipment generate significant electrical noise. They are also used in data centers and telecommunications to ensure the integrity of data transmission over long distances. Additionally, drain wires are crucial in audio-visual systems to prevent noise from affecting sound and video quality.
Advantages over other Electrical Power Wires
One of the main advantages of using drain wires in shielded cables is their ability to effectively manage electromagnetic interference, which is not typically addressed by unshielded cables. This makes them particularly useful in applications where signal integrity is critical. Additionally, the use of copper as a material for drain wires offers high conductivity and durability, which are essential for reliable grounding.
Limitations
A potential limitation of drain wires is that they can inadvertently couple noise to the signal wires if not properly grounded. This can occur if the drain wire is not correctly connected to the ground, leading to increased noise levels rather than reducing them. Additionally, the presence of a drain wire and shielding can increase the overall cost and complexity of the cable compared to unshielded alternatives.
Considerations
When selecting cables with drain wires, it is important to consider the initial costs, which may be higher due to the additional materials and manufacturing processes involved. However, the long-term benefits of improved signal integrity and reduced electromagnetic interference can outweigh these initial expenses. Durability is another factor, as copper drain wires offer good resistance to wear and tear. Maintenance costs are generally low, provided that the grounding connections are regularly inspected and maintained to ensure effective noise management.
from General Cable
Over the years, General Cable has proven itself as a highly versatile provider of all types of specialty wire and cable products. Today we are a leader known globally for innovative solutions tailored to meet the unique requirements of a wide range of industries. From oil rigs to cars and trains,... [See More]
- Cable Shielding: Drain Wire; Foil
- Number of Conductors: 2 to 100
- Product Type: Instrumentation and Control; Multiconductor Cable
- Rated Voltage: 0.3000 to 35
from LAPP
UNITRONIC ® BUS DeviceNet FD cables provide reliable data and power transfer between industrial automation devices like sensors, actuators & PLCs. The cables are designed to perform in harsh chemical & mechanical environments and are in full compliance with ODVA specifications. [See More]
- Cable Shielding: Drain Wire; Foil; Foil Braid
- Rated Voltage: 0.3000
- Product Type: Instrumentation and Control
- Rated Temperature: -20 to 75
from igus® inc.
1. Highly flexible special cable. 2. Energy conductor braided by high tensile strength core cord. 3. Gusset-filling, pressure extruded. 4. Highly flexible braided copper shield. 5. Pressure extruded, oil-proof PVC sheath blend. Classification of the Chainflex ® cable: Class 5.5.2.1. [See More]
- Cable Shielding: Drain Wire
- Rated Voltage: 0.6000 to 1
- Number of Conductors: 4 to 5
- Rated Temperature: -5 to 70
from SAB North America
CC 640 CP is a flexible multi-conductor, 600 V, 80 °C UL-approved TPE insulated flexible power supply and control cable with a rugged, abrasion resistant polyurethane. jacket. The polyurethane jacket allows this cable to be used both indoor and outdoor in wet, dry, and extremely cold conditions. [See More]
- Cable Shielding: Braid; Drain Wire
- Number of Conductors: 2
- Product Type: Instrumentation and Control; Multiconductor Cable
- Rated Voltage: 0.3000 to 0.6000
from Multi/Cable Corporation
APPLICATIONS: Industrial process control systems. Power limited alarm circuits. Petrochemical refineries. Intrinsically safe wiring. Installations in cable trays, raceways, ducts, troughs, conduit, or free air when supported by a messenger. CHARACTERISTICS: PRODUCT DESCRIPTION: Stranded, soft... [See More]
- Cable Shielding: Drain Wire; Aluminum/ Polyester Foil
- Rated Voltage: 0.3000
- Product Type: Multiconductor Cable
- Rated Temperature: -20 to 105
from Hi-Tech Controls, Inc.
See also type N2XH. The concentric conductor can be used as PE- PEN conductor or as shield. Suitable for fixed installation in dry, damp or wet environments, in, above, on and beneath plaster as well as in concrete. These cables are suitable for outdoor applications and in underground by using in... [See More]
- Cable Shielding: Drain Wire
- Number of Conductors: 2 to 30
- Product Type: Multiconductor Cable
- Rated Voltage: 4
from Consolidated Electronic Wire & Cable
Product Construction. Conductor: 18 AWG 2 conductor annealed stranded bare copper wire. Insulation: Color coded 90 °C EDPM rubber. Jacket: Neoprene (CPE) black jacket. Temperature: -40 °C to +90 °C. Voltage: 18 AWG 600 volts. Applications: Portable lighting. Motors. Machine/power tools. [See More]
- Cable Shielding: Drain Wire
- Number of Conductors: 2
- Product Type: Multiconductor Cable
- Rated Temperature: -40 to 90
from General Cable
General Cable is recognized worldwide for its leadership and breadth in power, control and instrumentation cable products. Our solutions span a very broad range of manufacturing and industrial distribution applications, engineered to perform reliably in the most demanding environments. Our... [See More]
- Cable Shielding: Drain Wire
- Number of Conductors: 2 to 6
- Product Type: Multiconductor Cable; Single Conductor Wire; Transmission / Distribution Wire
- Rated Voltage: 0.6000 to 35
from LAPP
UNITRONIC ® BUS DeviceNet FD cables provide reliable data and power transfer between industrial automation devices like sensors, actuators & PLCs. The cables are designed to perform in harsh chemical & mechanical environments and are in full compliance with ODVA specifications. [See More]
- Cable Shielding: Drain Wire; Foil; Foil Braid
- Rated Voltage: 0.3000
- Product Type: Instrumentation and Control
- Rated Temperature: -40 to 75
from igus® inc.
1. Highly flexible special cable. 2. With pressure extruded TPE blend. 3. Highly flexible braided copper shield. 4. Pressure extruded, halogen-free TPE blend. Classification of the Chainflex ® cable: Class 6.6.4.1. Requirements: 6: Cables for continuous movement in e-chains ®, extreme... [See More]
- Cable Shielding: Drain Wire
- Rated Voltage: 0.6000 to 1
- Number of Conductors: 1
- Rated Temperature: -35 to 100
from SAB North America
The SL 801 C is an overall shielded continuous flex power supply and feedback cable which has been designed for automated servo systems. The composite. cable offers a unique combination of signal and power conductors, under one jacket, while reducing weight and saving space. The special design makes... [See More]
- Cable Shielding: Drain Wire; Foil Braid; Foil Braid Pairwise, Overall Foil Braid
- Number of Conductors: 8
- Product Type: Instrumentation and Control; Multiconductor Cable
- Rated Voltage: 0.5000
from Multi/Cable Corporation
APPLICATIONS: Industrial process control systems. Power limited alarm circuits. Petrochemical refineries. Intrinsically safe wiring. Installations in cable trays, raceways, ducts, troughs, conduit, or free air when supported by a messenger. CHARACTERISTICS: PRODUCT DESCRIPTION: Stranded, soft... [See More]
- Cable Shielding: Drain Wire; Aluminum/ Polyester Foil
- Rated Voltage: 0.3000
- Product Type: Multiconductor Cable
- Rated Temperature: -20 to 105
from Hi-Tech Controls, Inc.
Hi-Tech Controls, Inc. and it's supplier, HELUKABEL ®, are your one stop source for wires and cables requiring RoHS, UL, CSA, Harmonized & CE approval. We offer cables for power, control, high/low temp., hi-flex, etc. [See More]
- Cable Shielding: Drain Wire
- Number of Conductors: 2 to 33
- Product Type: Multiconductor Cable
- Rated Temperature: -10 to 85
from Consolidated Electronic Wire & Cable
Product Construction. Conductor: 18 AWG 3 conductor annealed stranded bare copper wire. Insulation: Color coded 90 °C EDPM rubber. Jacket: Neoprene (CPE) black jacket. Temperature: -40 °C to +90 °C. Voltage: 18 AWG 600 volts. Applications: Portable lighting. Motors. Machine/power tools. [See More]
- Cable Shielding: Drain Wire
- Number of Conductors: 3
- Product Type: Multiconductor Cable
- Rated Voltage: 0.6000
from General Cable
Since 1981, Gepco ® has been committed to the development and manufacture of cable and connectivity products for the broadcast, professional & commercial AV markets. Through continual involvement with our customers and technology, Gepco has developed unique and innovative, solutions-based... [See More]
- Cable Shielding: Braid; Drain Wire; Foil Braid
- Number of Conductors: 1 to 64
- Product Type: Instrumentation and Control; Multiconductor Cable; Microphone
- Rated Voltage: 0.3000 to 0.6000
from LAPP
UNITRONIC ® BUS DeviceNet cables provide reliable data and power transfer between industrial automation devices like sensors, actuators & PLCs. The cables are designed to perform in harsh chemical & mechanical environments and are in full compliance with ODVA specifications. [See More]
- Cable Shielding: Drain Wire; Foil; Foil Braid
- Rated Voltage: 0.3000
- Product Type: Instrumentation and Control
- Rated Temperature: -20 to 75
from SAB North America
The SL 802 C is a continuous flex servo motor feedback cable, overall shielded and designed for automated servo systems. This cable is ideally suited for automated. applications, such as cable tracks, automated handling equipment, pick-and-place units, gantry robots, machine tools, and other... [See More]
- Cable Shielding: Drain Wire; Foil Braid; Foil Braid Pairwise, Overall Foil Braid
- Number of Conductors: 9
- Product Type: Instrumentation and Control; Multiconductor Cable
- Rated Voltage: 0.5000
from Multi/Cable Corporation
APPLICATIONS: Industrial process control systems. Power limited alarm circuits. Petrochemical refineries. Intrinsically safe wiring. Installations in cable trays, raceways, ducts, troughs, conduit, or free air when supported by a messenger. CHARACTERISTICS: PRODUCT DESCRIPTION: Stranded, soft... [See More]
- Cable Shielding: Drain Wire; Aluminum/ Polyester Foil
- Rated Voltage: 0.3000
- Product Type: Multiconductor Cable
- Rated Temperature: -20 to 105
from Hi-Tech Controls, Inc.
According to VG 95281 part 61 shielded. No loss of insulation if directly exposed to fire. No special fire-proofed layer necessary. Conductor Operating Temperature. Max. +85 °C/+185 °F. Nominal Voltage 500 V. Minimum Bending Radius. Approx. 5x cable Ø [See More]
- Cable Shielding: Drain Wire
- Number of Conductors: 2 to 33
- Product Type: Multiconductor Cable
- Rated Temperature: -10 to 85
from Consolidated Electronic Wire & Cable
Product Construction. Conductor: 18 AWG 4 conductor annealed stranded bare copper wire. Insulation: Color coded 90 °C EDPM rubber. Jacket: Neoprene (CPE) black jacket. Temperature: -40 °C to +90 °C. Voltage: 18 AWG 600 volts. Applications: Portable lighting. Motors. Machine/power tools. [See More]
- Cable Shielding: Drain Wire
- Number of Conductors: 4
- Product Type: Multiconductor Cable
- Rated Voltage: 0.6000
from General Cable
From exploration and extraction to production and refining, our state-of-the-art Oil, Gas and Petrochemical (OGP) cable solutions are designed to successfully address the upstream, midstream and downstream application challenges you face in this demanding market. Our effective cable designs help you... [See More]
- Cable Shielding: Braid; Drain Wire; Foil; Foil Braid
- Number of Conductors: 1 to 10
- Product Type: Instrumentation and Control; Multiconductor Cable; Single Conductor Wire
- Rated Voltage: 0.6000 to 15
from LAPP
UNITRONIC ® BUS DeviceNet cables provide reliable data and power transfer between industrial automation devices like sensors, actuators & PLCs. The cables are designed to perform in harsh chemical & mechanical environments and are in full compliance with ODVA specifications. [See More]
- Cable Shielding: Drain Wire; Foil; Foil Braid
- Rated Voltage: 0.3000
- Product Type: Instrumentation and Control
- Rated Temperature: -25 to 75
from SAB North America
The SL 806 C is an overall shielded continuous flex power supply and feedback cable which has been designed for automated servo systems. This composite. cable offers a unique combination of signal and power conductors, under one jacket, while reducing weight and saving space. The special design... [See More]
- Cable Shielding: Drain Wire; Foil Braid; Foil Braid Pairwise, Overall Foil Braid
- Number of Conductors: 8
- Product Type: Instrumentation and Control; Multiconductor Cable
- Rated Voltage: 0.5000
from Multi/Cable Corporation
APPLICATIONS: Industrial process control systems. Power limited alarm circuits. Petrochemical refineries. Intrinsically safe wiring. Installations in cable trays, raceways, ducts, troughs, conduit, or free air when supported by a messenger. CHARACTERISTICS: PRODUCT DESCRIPTION: Stranded, soft... [See More]
- Cable Shielding: Drain Wire; Aluminum/ Polyester Foil
- Rated Voltage: 0.3000
- Product Type: Multiconductor Cable
- Rated Temperature: -20 to 105
from Hi-Tech Controls, Inc.
Suitable for indoor installation and in cable ducts, outdoors, underground and in water as well as for laying racks for industrial and switching systems and power plants. Limited use when buried in ground if the PVC outer jacket could be damaged by high mechanical stress. The inner conducting layer... [See More]
- Cable Shielding: Drain Wire
- Number of Conductors: 3
- Product Type: Multiconductor Cable
- Rated Voltage: 15
from General Cable
Our extensive line of quality rail and transit cables ensure performance, reliability and safety, while lowering your cost through easier and faster installation, simplified maintenance and infrastructure longevity. As an industry leader with nearly a century of expertise, we consistently provide... [See More]
- Cable Shielding: Braid; Drain Wire
- Number of Conductors: 1 to 8
- Product Type: Instrumentation and Control; Multiconductor Cable; Single Conductor Wire
- Rated Voltage: 0.6000 to 2
from SAB North America
The SL 807 C is a continuous flex servo motor feedback cable, overall shielded and designed for automated servo systems. This cable is ideally suited for automated. applications, such as cable tracks, automated handling equipment, pick-and-place units, gantry robots, machine tools, and other... [See More]
- Cable Shielding: Drain Wire; Foil Braid; Foil Braid Pairwise, Overall Foil Braid
- Number of Conductors: 9
- Product Type: Instrumentation and Control; Multiconductor Cable
- Rated Voltage: 0.5000
from Multi/Cable Corporation
APPLICATIONS: Industrial process control systems. Power limited alarm circuits. Petrochemical refineries. Intrinsically safe wiring. Installations in cable trays, raceways, ducts, troughs, conduit, or free air when supported by a messenger. CHARACTERISTICS: PRODUCT DESCRIPTION: Stranded, soft... [See More]
- Cable Shielding: Drain Wire; Aluminum/ Polyester Foil
- Rated Voltage: 0.3000
- Product Type: Multiconductor Cable
- Rated Temperature: -20 to 105
from Hi-Tech Controls, Inc.
Suitable for indoor installation and in cable ducts, outdoors, underground and in water as well as for installation on cable trays for industries, switch-boards and power stations. The PE-outer jacket is resistant to high mechanical stress for laying the cables. This PE-jacket is not flame-resistant... [See More]
- Cable Shielding: Drain Wire
- Rated Voltage: 45
- Number of Conductors: 1
- Rated Temperature: -20 to 90
from SAB North America
The SL 811 is a very flexible, continuous flex motor power supply cable which has been designed for automated servo systems. This cable is ideally suited for. automated applications, such as cable tracks, automated handling equipment, pick-and place units, gantry robots, machine tools, and other... [See More]
- Cable Shielding: Drain Wire; Foil Braid; Foil Braid Pairwise, Overall Foil Braid
- Number of Conductors: 4
- Product Type: Instrumentation and Control; Multiconductor Cable
- Rated Voltage: 1
from Multi/Cable Corporation
APPLICATIONS: Direct burial in wet or dry locations. Outdoor locations where sunlight resistance is require. Cable trays, conduit, ducts, troughs, wireways. Used for power, control, lighting, signaling, telemetering, relaying, etc. Overall shield for superior ESI & EMI rejection. [See More]
- Cable Shielding: Drain Wire
- Cable Jacket: Polyvinyl Chloride
- Product Type: Multiconductor Cable
- Cable Insulation: Polyvinyl Chloride
from Hi-Tech Controls, Inc.
Suitable for indoor installation and in cable ducts, outdoors, underground and in water as well as for installation on cable trays for industries, switch-boards and power stations. The PE-outer jacket is resistant to high mechanical stress for laying the cables. This PE-jacket is not flame-resistant... [See More]
- Cable Shielding: Drain Wire
- Rated Voltage: 45
- Number of Conductors: 1
- Rated Temperature: -20 to 90
from SAB North America
The SL 813 C is a shielded continuous flex, motor power supply cable which has been designed for automated servo systems. This cable is ideally suited for. automated applications, such as cable tracks, automated handling equipment, pick-and place units, gantry robots, machine tools, and other... [See More]
- Cable Shielding: Drain Wire; Foil Braid; Foil Braid Pairwise, Overall Foil Braid
- Number of Conductors: 4
- Product Type: Instrumentation and Control; Multiconductor Cable
- Rated Voltage: 1
from Hi-Tech Controls, Inc.
Suitable for indoor installation and in cable ducts, outdoors, underground and in water as well as for installation on cable trays for industries, switch-boards and power stations. The PE-outer jacket is resistant to high mechanical stress for laying the cables. This PE-jacket is not flame-resistant... [See More]
- Cable Shielding: Drain Wire
- Rated Voltage: 45
- Number of Conductors: 1
- Rated Temperature: -20 to 90
from SAB North America
The SL 823 C is a halogen free, super flexible, shielded, continuous flex motor supply cable which has been designed for automated servo systems. The flexible. design makes this cable ideally suited for small bend radius applications, such as cable tracks, automated handling equipment, and other... [See More]
- Cable Shielding: Drain Wire; Foil Braid; Foil Braid Pairwise, Overall Foil Braid
- Number of Conductors: 4
- Product Type: Instrumentation and Control; Multiconductor Cable
- Rated Voltage: 1
from Hi-Tech Controls, Inc.
Suitable for indoor installation and in cable ducts, outdoors, underground and in water as well as for installation on cable trays for industries, switch-boards and power stations. The PE-outer jacket is resistant to high mechanical stress for laying the cables. This PE-jacket is not flame-resistant... [See More]
- Cable Shielding: Drain Wire
- Rated Voltage: 45
- Number of Conductors: 1
- Rated Temperature: -20 to 90
from SAB North America
Radiation res-5*107cJ/Kg, flame ret, self-ext, oil & chem res [See More]
- Cable Shielding: Drain Wire; Foil Braid; Foil Braid Pairwise, Overall Foil Braid
- Number of Conductors: 9
- Product Type: Instrumentation and Control; Multiconductor Cable
- Rated Voltage: 0.5000
from Hi-Tech Controls, Inc.
Suitable for installation mostly in power supply stations, indoors and in cable ducts, outdoors, underground and in water as well as for installation on cable trays for industries, switch boards and power stations. Due to the good laying characteristic, this cable can also be installed in difficult... [See More]
- Cable Shielding: Drain Wire
- Rated Voltage: 45
- Number of Conductors: 1
- Rated Temperature: -5 to 90
from SAB North America
SL 833 C is a halogen free UL/CSA approved, highly flexible, continuous flex motor supply cable which has been designed for automated servo systems. The. special ultra flexible design makes SL 833 C ideally suited for small bend radius applications, such as cable track, automated handling equipment... [See More]
- Cable Shielding: Drain Wire; Foil Braid; Foil Braid Pairwise, Overall Foil Braid
- Number of Conductors: 4
- Product Type: Instrumentation and Control; Multiconductor Cable
- Rated Voltage: 1
from Hi-Tech Controls, Inc.
According to VG 95218, part 60, shielded. The conductor insulation continues to function during a fire without the need for extra flame-proof taping. Conductor Operating Temperature. Max. +85 °C/+185 °F. Nominal Voltage U0/U 0.6/1 kV. Minimum Bending Radius. Approx. 5x cable Ø [See More]
- Cable Shielding: Drain Wire
- Number of Conductors: 1 to 4
- Product Type: Multiconductor Cable
- Rated Temperature: 85
from SAB North America
SL 839 C is a UL approved, continuous flexible tinned copper shielded, multi conductor, motor feedback and transmission cable. This cable is designed for use in. highly flexible, mobile connection, primary in speedometer, brake, temperature control in motors and continuous flex applications for... [See More]
- Cable Shielding: Drain Wire; Foil Braid; Foil Braid Pairwise, Overall Foil Braid
- Number of Conductors: 8
- Product Type: Instrumentation and Control; Multiconductor Cable
- Rated Voltage: 1
from Hi-Tech Controls, Inc.
USA NFPA79, edition 2007 conformant flexible power cables up to 600 V, for all machinery in tool and plant construction, suitable for installation in dry, humid and damp environments, in the open and in pipes. For underground installation and for open, unprotected installation from the cable rack to... [See More]
- Cable Shielding: Drain Wire
- Number of Conductors: 2 to 61
- Product Type: Multiconductor Cable
- Rated Voltage: 3