Wired armoured cable is a robust type of electrical cable designed for installations where both mechanical protection and reliable power transmission are required. It typically consists of a central conductor or group of conductors, insulation around each conductor, an inner bedding, a metallic armour layer, and an outer sheath. This layered construction allows the cable to withstand impact, compression, and occasional exposure to moisture or chemicals, making it suitable for demanding indoor and outdoor environments.The conductor is usually made from copper or aluminium, chosen for its high electrical conductivity and durability. Around each conductor, an insulating material such as cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE) or polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is applied to provide electrical isolation and maintain performance over a wide temperature range. The insulation is carefully selected to meet specific voltage ratings and environmental conditions. It helps prevent short circuits, leakage currents, and degradation under thermal stress.Outside the insulated conductors, an inner bedding layer is added to form a smooth surface and protect the insulation from the metallic armour. The armour is generally made from steel wire or steel tape, depending on the application and flexibility requirements. Steel wire armour (SWA) provides superior resistance against mechanical damage, digging, and crushing, which is particularly important when cables are buried directly in the ground or installed in industrial facilities. In some applications, aluminium wire armour or other materials may be used to reduce weight or enhance corrosion resistance.The outer sheath, often made from PVC, polyethylene, or other thermoplastic materials, seals and protects the internal components from moisture, chemicals, UV radiation, and abrasion. It also offers an additional level of electrical insulation. For installations in harsh or hazardous locations, special sheath compounds may be used to provide flame retardancy, low smoke and halogen-free properties, or oil and chemical resistance.Wired armoured cable is widely used in power distribution networks, industrial plants, building services, and infrastructure projects. It can be installed underground, fixed to walls, laid in cable trays, or used in external environments such as car parks and outdoor lighting systems. Because of its armour, it is especially useful where there is a risk of accidental damage from tools, vehicles, or construction activities.Electrical and mechanical characteristics of armoured cable are defined by international and national standards, which specify conductor size ranges, voltage ratings, insulation thickness, and test methods. Proper selection of cable size and construction depends on the load current, installation method, ambient temperature, fault conditions, and required service life. Correct termination and earthing of the armour are also critical to ensure safety and to maintain effective fault protection.By combining strong mechanical protection with reliable electrical performance, wired armoured cable offers a long-lasting and safe solution for power and control applications in a wide variety of demanding environments.