Drähten

Drähten refers to electrical wires or conductors used to carry electricity or signals. They may be bare or insulated and come in various constructions, including solid-core and stranded, single-core or multi-core cables. The conductors are usually metals with high electrical conductivity, most commonly copper; aluminum is also widely used, especially in power transmission and distribution. In overhead lines and some industrial contexts, steel-reinforced conductors (such as ACSR) are used for mechanical strength.

Manufacture and design involve drawing metal through dies to reduce diameter, followed by annealing to restore ductility. Stranded wires are formed by twisting together multiple fine strands. Insulation is applied by extrusion for bulk cables, using materials such as PVC or XLPE, while magnet wires for motors and transformers use enamel insulation. Cables may also be shielded or jacketed to protect against moisture, chemicals, and mechanical stress.

Applications span domestic electrical installation, industrial power distribution, and electronics. Wires are used for power and lighting circuits, control cabling, and data or communications cables with specialized impedance and shielding requirements. The choice of conductor size, insulation type, and insulation thickness depends on the intended voltage, current load, ambient conditions, and safety standards.

Standards and safety considerations include ampacity ratings, temperature ratings, and voltage insulation classes to prevent overheating and electrical faults. Compliance with national and international standards (for example, various IEC and NEC/NEV guidelines) ensures proper performance, compatibility, and safety in electrical systems.

Historically, copper wires have been used since ancient times, with insulated wires becoming essential in the spread of electrical networks in the 19th and 20th centuries.