What is Induction in Electrical Cables? Here's the Explanation and Solution

The cables are used for various electrical installation needs, both in homes and other buildings. The voltage used for electrical installations typically uses AC voltage (Alternating Current), where the current alternates periodically, commonly known as alternating current.

In residential buildings, the voltage used is typically 220 volts, consisting of 1 phase (+), 1 neutral (-), and/or ground/earth (GND) as a safety measure. Under these conditions, the cables commonly used are NYM type with 2 or 3 conductors, with sizes adjusted to meet the load requirements. In buildings with higher loads, such as multi-story buildings, manufacturing facilities, warehouses, and hospitals, a voltage of 380 volts is typically used for operations. This voltage consists of 3 phases (R-S-T) with 1 neutral (N) and/or 1 grounding/earth (GND) as a safety measure. For this reason, it is recommended to use NYM cable with 4 or 5 conductors. The cable size should still be adjusted according to the load to be used.

When installing electrical cables, it is important to consider the quality of the cables themselves. Inspections should be conducted to minimize the risk of electrical leakage, which can cause short circuits. There are many ways to check whether cables are safe for use in electrical installations. In this article, we will discuss two of the simplest methods: using a multimeter and a test pen.

1. Using a multimeter

The first method is to use a multimeter, which should be done when the cable is not connected to a power source. Set the selector switch to the ohmmeter (Ω) mode. For a NYM cable with 2 conductors, connect the red probe to the phase conductor and the black probe to the neutral conductor. If the display shows “OL” or the number ‘1’ (depending on the brand), it means the cable is not connected between conductors. However, if the display shows “0.0” and/or the multimeter beeps, it indicates that the conductors are connected to each other, meaning the cable has a short circuit, which can cause a short circuit if forced to use. This also applies to 3-core cables and beyond.

2. Using a Test Pen

The second test can be done using a test pen. First, strip the cable to be tested, then connect it to a power source using a plug (the connection to the power source must use a plug; you cannot simply connect the stripped cable to the outlet).

The most common mistakes in testing methods include not using a plug and connecting only one conductor to the power source.

If one of the conductors is not connected to the uncharged neutral conductor (as shown in the image above), induction will occur, causing the neutral conductor to become electrically charged like the phase conductor. This is caused by the influence of the Electromotive Force (EMF) from electrically charged objects nearby.

Ensure that both conductors are connected to the phase and neutral power sources. Meanwhile, the other ends are stripped but left open without touching between the phase conductor and the neutral conductor. Next, touch the test pen tip to the phase and neutral conductors alternately. If the light on the test pen illuminates when touched to the phase conductor and turns off when touched to the neutral conductor, it means the cable is not experiencing an electrical current leak.

However, if the test pen lights up when placed on both conductors, there is an indication of a leak in the cable or electrical installation.

When there are indications of induction in the electrical cable we have recently purchased, do not immediately assume that the cable is damaged or defective, but ensure that we have conducted the inspection using the correct method as explained above.

If you are looking for the best quality electrical cables, trust Wilson Cables, because every product undergoes rigorous testing before reaching the consumers. Featuring technology that extinguishes fires 3 times faster when ignited, Wilson Cables prioritizes safety and comfort for your home electrical installations.