Insulated conductors and cables exposed to direct sunlight must be classified as what?

Insulated conductors and cables that are exposed to direct sunlight need to be classified as sunlight resistant. This classification is essential because ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun can degrade the insulation materials over time, potentially leading to failures or hazards in electrical systems. Sunlight-resistant conductors and cables are specifically designed and tested to withstand prolonged exposure to sunlight without significant degradation of their insulation properties.

While terms like UV resistant and weatherproof might seem similar, they denote different properties. UV resistant refers specifically to a material's ability to resist degradation from ultraviolet light, but sunlight resistant encompasses broader criteria, indicating that the cable or conductor can handle the effects of both direct sunlight exposure and other environmental factors. Water resistant usually pertains to the ability to resist moisture ingress, which is not the primary concern addressed by this classification.

Thus, when choosing insulation for conductors and cables intended for outdoor use in direct sunlight, it is crucial to identify materials that are classified as sunlight resistant to ensure long-term reliability and safety.