Our UV resistant solar cables feature tinned copper conductors and a specially compounded XLPO outer sheath specifically formulated for maximum ultraviolet (UV) radiation resistance — a critical requirement for solar PV cables that spend their entire 25-year service life exposed to direct solar radiation. Standard black XLPO sheaths contain carbon black UV stabiliser at a concentration of 2–3% by weight, providing the deep UV absorption needed to prevent photodegradation of the polymer chain that causes cracking, stiffening, and eventual insulation failure in inferior cables.
The tinned copper conductor provides dual benefits in solar applications: corrosion resistance at the conductor surface (preventing oxidation in humid and coastal environments) and improved compatibility with the tin-plated contact pins in MC4-compatible connectors — maintaining low contact resistance (<0.1 mΩ per connection) over decades of thermal cycling. Rated 1500V DC; available in 2.5, 4, 6, 10 mm²; TUV approved to EN 50618.
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Conductor | Tinned annealed copper, Class 5 |
| Insulation & Sheath | UV-stabilised XLPO |
| Rated Voltage DC | 1500V DC |
| Conductor Temp. | 90°C continuous / 120°C peak |
| Ambient Temp. | ‑40°C to +90°C |
| UV Resistance | >20,000 h tested |
| Standard | EN 50618 / H1Z2Z2-K |
| Approval | TUV Rheinland |
XLPO is the gold standard for solar cable UV resistance — the cross-linked polymer chains resist UV-induced chain scission that degrades uncross-linked polymers. Standard PVC degrades within 5–8 years of outdoor exposure. Rubber (EPDM) has good UV resistance but lower maximum operating temperature. Specify XLPO for all outdoor PV applications requiring 20+ year service life without sheath replacement.
