Electrical armoured cable is a robust power and control cable designed for use in demanding environments where mechanical protection and reliable performance are essential. It consists of a central conductor, insulation, bedding, a metallic armour layer, and an outer sheath. The conductor is usually copper or aluminium, chosen for its electrical conductivity and durability. Insulation materials such as cross‑linked polyethylene (XLPE) or polyvinyl chloride (PVC) protect the conductor and ensure safe operation at the rated voltage.The distinctive feature of this type of cable is the metallic armour. Common forms include steel wire armour (SWA) and steel tape armour (STA), which provide excellent resistance to impact, crushing, and other mechanical stresses. This makes armoured cables suitable for direct burial in the ground, installation in trenches, ducts, or areas exposed to potential damage. The armour also offers a degree of protection against rodents and accidental digging.Electrical armoured cables are widely used in industrial plants, infrastructure projects, commercial buildings, and utility networks. Typical applications include power distribution between substations and buildings, connection of heavy machinery, underground lighting circuits, and supply to outdoor equipment. They are also found in transportation systems, such as tunnels, rail installations, and airports, where reliability and safety are critical. In hazardous or high‑risk locations, armoured cables help maintain circuit integrity by resisting physical damage.These cables are available in a range of voltage ratings, from low‑voltage distribution to medium‑voltage feeder circuits. They may be single‑core or multi‑core, depending on the system requirements. The choice of sheath material, often PVC or low‑smoke, halogen‑free compounds, depends on environmental conditions and fire safety standards. Low‑smoke, halogen‑free sheaths are preferred in public spaces and enclosed areas to reduce toxic emissions and improve visibility during a fire.Installation of electrical armoured cable must follow relevant standards and regulations. Proper termination and earthing of the armour are essential to ensure electrical safety and effective fault protection. When correctly selected, installed, and maintained, armoured cables provide a long service life, stable electrical performance, and a high level of protection, making them a key component in modern power and control systems.