Flat or round braid: what's the difference for your electrical needs?
When it comes to choosing a braid for your electrical installations, the choice between a flat braid or a round braid can have a significant impact on the performance and safety of your system. In this article, we'll explore the differences between these two types of braid to help you make the best choice for your electrical needs.
What is a flat braid and what is a round braid?
Before comparing these two types of braids, it's important to understand what they are:
Flat braid Consists of metal wires woven together to form a flat, flexible band. Often used for grounding connections and electromagnetic shielding.
Round braid : Composed of metal wires woven into a cylindrical structure. Commonly used for flexible cabling and mobile connections.
Main differences between flat and round braids
1. Flexibility and installation
- Flat braid Flat braid: Thanks to its flattened shape, it is more flexible when bending or adjusting in confined spaces. Ideal for installations requiring short, stable connections.
- Round braid Round braid: Offering greater resistance to torsion, it is better suited to mobile applications or connections requiring multidirectional flexibility.
2. Electrical conductivity
- Flat braid Flat braid: Due to its large contact surface, it offers better conductivity for grounding applications. This is why it is often used in surge protection systems.
- Round braid Round braid: Although its conductivity is slightly lower than that of flat braid, it is more efficient for carrying current in dynamic environments where movement is frequent.
3. Use and specific applications
- Flat braid Mainly used for :
- Grounding: Thanks to its large contact surface.
- Electromagnetic shielding: protection against electromagnetic interference.
- Round braid Recommended for :
- Mobile connections: In electronic equipment requiring frequent movement.
- Flexible applications: such as flexible power cables or connections in electrical panels.
4. Mechanical strength and durability
- Flat braid Less resistant to twisting, it is more suitable for fixed installations.
- Round braid More resistant to mechanical wear thanks to its cylindrical structure, it is ideal for mobile connections and environments subject to vibration.
When should you choose a flat or round braid?
- Opt for a flat braid if you need :
- Excellent conductivity for grounding.
- Effective electromagnetic shielding.
- Flexibility in tight spaces.
- Choose a round braid if you are looking for :
- Multi-directional flexibility.
- Greater resistance to twisting and frequent movement.
- Durability in dynamic or mobile environments.
Advantages and disadvantages of flat and round braids
| Features | Flat braid | Round braid |
| Flexibility | Excellent in a single shot | Multidirectional |
| Conductivity | Superior for grounding | Good for mobile connections |
| Mechanical resistance | Limited to fixed installations | Excellent for mobile environments |
| Applications | Grounding, shielding | Flexible wiring, mobile connections |
Conclusion : Flat or round braid, which to choose?
In conclusion, the choice between flat braid and a round braid depends primarily on your specific needs in terms of conductivity, flexibility and durability. Flat braid is ideal for grounding connections and electromagnetic shielding, while round braid is better suited to mobile applications requiring multidirectional flexibility.
By carefully assessing your electrical requirements, you can make the most appropriate choice for your installation. Don't hesitate to consult a professional to guide you in choosing the type of braid best suited to your project.