Einzelleiter

Einzelleiter is a German term that translates to "single conductor" or "individual conductor." In electrical engineering, it refers to a single, solid wire that is not stranded. Unlike stranded wire, which is composed of multiple thinner wires twisted together, an einzelleiter consists of one solid piece of conductive material, typically copper or aluminum.

The use of einzelleiter has advantages and disadvantages. Its primary advantage is its rigidity and durability. It is less prone to breakage from vibration or repeated bending compared to stranded wire. This makes it suitable for applications where the wire will remain in a fixed position, such as within building wiring, in appliance internal connections, or in some types of electronic components. Its simplicity in manufacturing also often makes it a more cost-effective option.

However, einzelleiter is less flexible than stranded wire. This makes it more difficult to bend and route in tight spaces or where frequent movement is required. Its solid nature also means it has a larger surface area relative to its cross-sectional area compared to stranded wire, which can lead to slightly higher resistance at higher frequencies due to the skin effect. For applications requiring flexibility, such as in extension cords, speaker cables, or robotics, stranded wire is generally preferred.