Defence Standard Cable Applications

09.12.24 2 minutes

Defence standard cables were originally created for the defence and military sectors to resist a broad range of situations without affecting the cable’s function.

Nowadays, these cables are utilised in many other industries and applications such as:

  • Security
  • Data processing
  • Process control
  • Telemetry
  • Aviation
  • Control equipment
  • Instrumentation

Def stan cables are resilient, small, have a high operating voltage range. They come in a variety of core counts and screening options depending on the application.

Beware that these cables must NOT be used for mains connection cables.

Types of Defence Standard Cables

There are three main types of these cables: A-type, C-type, and S-type. Each one has a different screen.

A-Type Def Stan Cable

It is traditionally implemented in heavy industrial environments, avionic control systems, computer, and data processing. A-Type cables are unscreened.

C-Type Def Stan Cable

It is traditionally implemented in heavy industrial environments, avionic control systems, computer, and data processing. C-Type are braided screened.

S-Type Def Stan Cable

It is traditionally implemented in heavy industrial environments, avionic control systems, computer, and data processing. S-Type are foil screened.

Typical Military Applications

As this was defence cables’ main application, it is still heavily utilised within the military.

Utilisation includes:

  • Missiles
  • Equipment Wires, Limited Fire Hazard
  • Airframe Wires, Humidity Resistant, PTFE Composite
  • Cables, Radio Frequency, Low Fire Hazard
  • ESM/ECM systems
  • Fire guidance control
  • Weapon Systems
  • Engine compartment
  • Reactor compartment
  • Fire survival systems
  • Communications cables
  • Surface ships and submarines
  • Towed arrays

Colour Chart

Below is a colour chart, including all of the pairs of defence standard cables:

Defence standard cable colour chart

For more information on our range of defence standard cables, get in touch with our expert team!

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Features & Benefits of Defence Standard Cables

Features & Benefits of Defence Standard Cables

Originally designed for use within the military sector, Defence Standard Cables (often referred to as Def Stan in the industry) can withstand harsh environments. They’re most often used in the military industry.In this handy guide, we’ll go over what a Defence Standard Cable contains, as well as the benefits of using them.Features of Defence Standard CablesThere are 3 different types of Defence Standard Cables:Type A: Unscreened Type S: Foil Screened Type C: Braided Screened (To view our guide about all things screening, click here!)Def Stan Cables are generally used for connecting electronic equipment, particularly for equipment that requires high-density wiring. They feature multiple cores, making them a great option for military equipment, aircrafts, and data processors.They also tend to feature Low Smoke Zero Halogen (LSZH) outer sheathing, so in the event of a fire, the burning cable will not emit any smoke and little harmful gases. This vital for protecting those that may be trying to escape the fire, particularly if the cables are installed in an enclosed area.It’s important to note that due to their high voltage, Defence Standard Cables should not be used as mains connection cables.Benefits of Using Defence Standard CablesDefence Standard Cables feature a high voltage range, meaning that they allow for a higher efficiency of power transfer over further distances. The foil and braided screening featured on Type S and Type C Def Stan Cables, respectively, offer a high level of protection against electromagnetic interference.As well as this, Defence Standard Cables are super robust, both internally and externally. They are constructed specifically to withstand harsh environments. This includes low temperatures and high altitudes, as well as the general variable environments that one may come into contact with during combat.Being produced to withstand harsh environments means that Def Stan Cables are also resistant to offshore conditions. They will not corrode in seaside environments, so are perfect for electronics that are featured within marine vessels.Overall, if you’re looking for a super robust Cable that’s not for mains electronic applications, Defence Standard Cables may be the right choice for you. You can read more about the defence standard cable applications.If you have any questions that weren’t answered in this article, please click here to speak to someone from our team of experts. We’re always happy to help!

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