How to Determine If SPT-1 or SPT-2 Wiring Fits Your Needs

Buying a top-rated electrical cord can be a resource-intensive but ultimately rewarding decision. While standard cables simply let you plug in your appliances, high-quality cords cushion your valuable electronics from unforeseen electrical hazards. Besides, some wires are designed to deliver under harsh weather, providing an uninterrupted power supply to your home or office equipment.

SPT-1 and SPT-2 are common designations you’ll encounter while shopping for electrical cords. Despite being nearly identical, SPT-1 and SPT-2 have one fundamental distinction: each cable is designed for specific applications. We’ve prepared a comprehensive guide to SPT-1 and SPT-2 wires with a view to helping you choose the better cord for your needs.

What Are SPT Wires?

To solve the SPT-1 vs. SPT-2 dilemma, it’s essential to begin by understanding SPT cables and their common applications. SPT wires are highly portable and flexible cords designed for lighter-duty applications.

The SPT cables are typically found in residential areas, where they’re widely used to connect less power-intensive appliances like table lamps, radios, fans, and clocks. SPT wires are also known as lamps, cords, or lighting cables. All three monikers denote the primary applications that these cords are typically used for. Due to their synonymy with household lighting, SPT cords have become a staple component of Christmas decorations. You only have to choose between SPT-1 and SPT-2.

What Are the Similarities Between SPT-1 and SPT-2 Wires?

SPT-1 and SPT-2 wires both bear the initials SPT. Here’s the meaning of each designation:

S - Stranded

In electrical parlance, ‘stranded cables’ refer to multiple pieces of thin wires that are compressed and bundled into an insulation material. Stranded wires are remarkably flexible and elastic. They’re ideal for connecting appliances in confined spaces, such as along corridors or balconies. Due to their superior elasticity, stranded cables are also considerably durable. The wires can withstand multiple bending without fraying or breaking.

P – Parallel

Parallel wires are arranged in parallel circuits. Parallel circuits consist of individual branches, whereby only a portion of the current flows through each branch. This arrangement helps to maintain the circuit’s maximum voltage, ensuring that each connected appliance receives the full voltage.

T – Thermoplastic

Thermoplastics are cable insulation materials made from the polymerization of natural or synthetic monomers. The resultant products can withstand significant mechanical loads and severe weather conditions.

Modern SPT-1 and SPT-2 cables feature more advanced thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs), which are noted for their superior weather-resistance properties. TPEs are particularly resistant to harsh chemicals and extreme temperature fluctuations. The materials can deliver in a temperature range between -31 degrees and 212 degrees Fahrenheit without warping or breaking.

How Do SPT-1 and SPT-2 Wires Differ?

Both SPT-1 and SPT-2 wires are stranded, parallel, and feature thermoplastic insulations. However, the cables differ in the density of their insulation materials. SPT-2 cords have an insulation thickness of 0.045”. They’re considerably denser than SPT-1 wires, which have an insulation of 0.03 inches.

The variances in insulation thickness between SPT-1 and SPT-2 wires may appear too subtle and insignificant. But the very factor spells the difference between SPT-1 and SPT-2 cables. Note that SPT-2 cords are 50% thicker than their SPT-1 counterparts. The extra thickness protects from harsh environmental conditions, including ultraviolet (UV) radiation and extreme temperature fluctuations.

Picking the Better Option

SPT-1 and SPT-2 wires are an excellent option for weather-resistant cables to power your lighter-duty appliances. So, how do you make the best choice? Consider SPT-2 cables for use in harsh environmental conditions. SPT-2 wires are less brittle and can withstand greater mechanical loads. Besides, their thicker insulation jackets enhance their resilience against extreme temperatures, chemical spills, and UV radiation.

Meanwhile, SPT-1 cables would suit you better if you are trying to balance efficiency and affordability. In addition to their ability to deliver under relatively harsh environmental conditions, SPT-1 cables are more affordable than SPT-2 wires. However, use SPT-1 cords for lower-temperature applications, as their thinner insulation may reduce their overall weather resistance.

Another good practice when choosing between SPT-1 and SPT-2 cables is determining the intended duration of outdoor use. SPT-2 wires can power outdoor applications for up to ninety days without developing significant issues. Conversely, SPT-1 cords may require monthly inspections or replacements.

Other Factors to Consider When Choosing SPT-1 and SPT-2 Cables

Besides their variance in insulation thickness, SPT-1 and SPT-2 wires may also come in different gauge ratings. Most of these cables are available in 16 and 18-gauge sizes. Lower-gauge cables have a larger cross-sectional area, which allows them to conduct more current without overheating. Therefore, 16-gauge SPT-1 and SPT-2 cords handle electric currents more effectively than 18-gauge cables.

We should also note that electrical hazards often strike unannounced. And when they do, the consequences can be devastating. While SPT-1 and SPT-2 cables are designed to minimize electrical risks, you can enhance their efficiency further by installing additional safety devices like circuit breakers and surge protectors. Circuit breakers protect your working environment from overcurrent and other circuit malfunctions. Meanwhile, surge protectors safeguard your valuable electronics from voltage spikes.