Differences Between Voltage Classifications

 

Voltage classifications are a form of categorization that allows professionals to communicate the power of electricity in a way that a layman can understand with some degree of accuracy. The most common voltage classifications used are quite simple: extra low, low, and high. 

Differences Between Voltage Classifications

Unfortunately, these classifications are not universal. The exact voltage range associated with each term can vary depending on where you are in the world. For the sake of simplicity we will refer to classifications as they are defined by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). Note that these classifications do vary some from standards that are commonly used in the United States and United Kingdom. 

Extra Low Voltage

Extra low voltage is defined as anything less than 50 alternating current root mean square voltage or 120 direct current voltage. While you should certainly be aware that extra low voltage can certainly cause harm, these power sources are generally considered low risk. 

Extra low voltage is commonly used in homes and public areas where a weaker power source is still viable. This is largely due to safety considerations, especially in areas where children, pets, and water may be present. 

Extra low voltage can and does present serious risks when used inappropriately, so steps should be taken to prevent small children and pets from interacting with these power sources. 

Low Voltage

According to the same standards, low voltage is defined as anything between 50 and 1000 alternating current root mean square voltage or anything between 120 and 1500 direct current voltage. 

Low voltage is commonly used for more powerful household systems. Examples may include your climate control systems, your vehicles, and your alarm systems. Fortunately, these systems are generally closed without easy access to the power supply. 

These closed systems offer a measure of security in areas where people and animals may be more likely to accidentally interact with the system itself. Despite the name, a low-voltage system can absolutely cause an electrical shock. Serious physical harm and fire hazards are both real concerns even with a low voltage system. 

High Voltage

The IEC defines high voltage as anything over 1000 alternating current root mean square voltage or 1500 direct current voltage. Anything using high voltage is normally labeled with a visible warning sign and is generally cordoned off from the public with tall fences, locks, and sometimes barbed wire.

High voltage is necessary to municipal systems, hospitals, manufacturing plants, and other major projects. Machines like x-rays and massive generators often rely on high voltage power sources to work normally. 

Keep in mind that high voltage can cause electrical arcing. A shock can easily be fatal, and it may spread beyond the initial point of contact to affect other people, animals, or conductive objects in the immediate vicinity.

High voltage wire and cable can be accessed for the projects that require them through specialized retailers. However, it is often necessary to use a custom cable company to ensure that your high-voltage equipment meets the standards needed for your work. 

Handling Different Standards

If your company or project is working across borders with different standards of voltage classifications, then it is important to communicate that to your custom cable team. The engineers at Calmont Wire and Cable can help to make sure that your work meets the necessary standards of regulations in each location. 

For work located specifically in the United States, you can refer to the regulations established by three interlocking entities: the National Electrical Code (NEC), the National Electrical Manufacturer's Association (NEMA), and the American National Standards Institute (ANSI).