Ultraviolet is a reference to anything that uses or emits ultraviolet radiation, electromagnetic radiation having a wavelength longer than X-rays but shorter than violet light, approximately 40 to 380 nanometers.
Ultraviolet refers to electromagnetic radiation, or to anything that uses or emits it, with wavelengths longer than X-rays but shorter than visible violet light, approximately 40 to 380 nanometers. Because its wavelengths are shorter than those the human eye can see, ultraviolet is invisible, yet it carries more energy than visible light. It is produced by the sun and by various lamps and is used in many applications, from fluorescence to curing.
For materials, exposure to ultraviolet radiation, particularly the ultraviolet in sunlight, can degrade some plastics and rubbers over time, which is why cable used outdoors is made with ultraviolet-resistant, or sunlight-resistant, compounds. This resistance protects the jacket and insulation from breaking down under prolonged exposure.
In commercial and industrial settings, ultraviolet exposure is a consideration for cable installed outdoors or under ultraviolet lighting. Recognizing the term helps in understanding why sunlight-resistant cable is specified for these locations.
Because exposure to ultraviolet radiation, particularly the ultraviolet in sunlight, can degrade some plastics and rubbers over time, cable used outdoors is made with ultraviolet-resistant, or sunlight-resistant, compounds that protect the jacket and insulation from breaking down under prolonged exposure.
At Windy City Wire, an understanding of environmental factors like ultraviolet radiation supports the selection of cable suited to its location. Recognizing how ultraviolet-resistant compounds protect cable helps customers match products to outdoor and ultraviolet-exposed commercial and industrial installations.
Abbreviated UV