Steel Wire Armoured (SWA) Cable | Types, Benefits & Applications

When it comes to electrical installations that demand strength, safety, and durability, the steel wire armoured (SWA) cable is a top choice. SWA cable stands for Steel Wire Armoured cable. It is not only robust but also highly reliable, which is why engineers, electricians, and contractors prefer it for tough environments.

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What is an SWA Armoured Cable?

SWA armoured cable, often simply called SWA cable, is a type of power and auxiliary control cable designed for mains electricity supply. In simple terms, the SWA cable meaning refers to its Steel Wire Armoured design, which gives it mechanical strength and durability.

It is suitable for use in underground networks, cable ducts, power distribution systems, and both indoor and outdoor installations.

In addition, the cable is also referred to as mains cable, power cable, armoured cable, or booklet-armoured cable. With copper conductors at its core, it provides excellent conductivity. Moreover, it comes in different variants, such as 2-core, 3-core, 4-core, 5-core, and 7-core SWA cables, making it adaptable for a wide range of applications.

Standards: BS5467 and BS6724 Explained

You may often come across the terms BS5467 or BS6724 when dealing with SWA cables. These indicate that the cable meets British Standards for construction and testing.

BS5467 – Refers to SWA cables with PVC sheathing.
BS6724 – Refers to SWA cables with LSZH (Low Smoke Zero Halogen) sheathing.

Therefore, when you see these standards, you can be confident that the cable has been tested for quality, durability, and safety.

Construction of Steel Wire Armoured Cable

The strength of steel wire armoured cable lies in its carefully designed layers. Each part plays a role in ensuring durability and safety:

Conductor – Class 2 stranded copper to BS EN 60228:2005

Insulation – XLPE (Cross-Linked Polyethylene) for thermal and electrical resistance
Bedding – PVC layer between insulation and armour
Armour – Steel wire for mechanical protection
Sheath – PVC or LSZH, usually black for UV stability
Voltage Rating – 600/1000V

As a result of this design, SWA cable performs well in harsh environments where normal cables would quickly fail.

Why is SWA Armoured Cable So Reliable?

The steel wire armour provides mechanical protection, which reduces the risk of crushing, pinching, or accidental damage. In fact, the armour is the reason why SWA is so commonly used outdoors. However, because the cable is heavy and difficult to bend, it is most suitable for underground installations or for being fixed along outdoor walls using cable cleats.

Types of SWA Armoured Cable

Based on Number of Cores(Multi-Core Variants)

Different electrical systems require different cable cores. Fortunately, SWA is available in multiple options:

2-Core SWA Cable – Contains live and neutral conductors; often used with double-insulated appliances that don’t need an earth connection.

3-Core SWA Cable – Includes live, neutral, and earth conductors; suitable for Class I appliances requiring grounding.
4-Core SWA Cable – Designed for low-voltage or low-current signal applications.
5-Core SWA Cable – Commonly used in low-voltage three-phase power transmission with a neutral line.

7-Core SWA Cable – Typically used for control circuits and low-voltage connections (up to around 50V DC).

As you can see, there is an SWA cable variant for nearly every type of installation.

Types Based on Insulation and Sheathing

PVC Insulated or Sheathed – This is the most common type of insulation, valued for its affordability and flexibility. However, one drawback is that when exposed to fire, it can release smoke and halogen gases.

XLPE (Cross-Linked Polyethylene) Insulated – XLPE insulation provides superior thermal and electrical performance compared to traditional PVC. It can withstand higher operating temperatures, making it suitable for demanding power applications.
LSZH (Low Smoke Zero Halogen) Sheathed – Designed with safety in mind, LSZH sheathing emits minimal smoke and no toxic halogen gases during a fire. Because of this, it is often chosen for installations in public spaces, tunnels, or commercial buildings where fire safety is a top priority.

Types Based on Application and Voltage

Power Cables – Built for fixed installations such as mains electricity supply; suitable for indoor, outdoor, and direct burial applications.

Medium Voltage (MV) Cables – Designed to handle higher voltage levels, making them suitable for large-scale power distribution.
Flexible Cables – Specially made to bend and move, ideal for machinery, portable tools, and dynamic applications.
Fire Resistant Cables – Engineered to maintain circuit integrity during fire events; compliant with standards like BS7846 for safety-critical installations.

Applications of Steel Wire Armoured Cable

SWA cable is widely used for electrical installations that require durability and safety. Because of its ruggedness, steel wire armoured cable can be applied in a wide range of projects:

Underground power distribution
Outdoor and garden lighting
Industrial machinery connections
Renewable energy systems (solar & wind)
Commercial and residential wiring

Moreover, its versatility makes it equally useful in both heavy-duty industrial projects and small domestic installations.

Benefits of Using SWA Armoured Cable

Choosing steel wire armoured cable comes with clear advantages:

High mechanical protection – Ideal for tough environments.
Durability – Provides long-lasting service with minimal maintenance.
Weather and UV resistance – Suitable for outdoor applications.
Fire safety – LSZH versions reduce smoke and toxic gases.

Versatility – Available in multiple core options for varied needs.

Therefore, investing in SWA means better performance, safety, and long-term reliability.

Disadvantages of SWA Cable

Heavy and less flexible compared to standard cables
More expensive due to steel armouring
Requires proper cleating or fixing for safe installation
Not ideal for temporary wiring or lightweight applications

Conclusion

SWA armoured cable, or steel wire armoured cable, is much more than a conductor of electricity—it is a trusted solution for power and control systems where durability is essential. Thanks to its robust design, wide range of variants, and compliance with international standards, it guarantees safety, consistency, and efficiency.

So, whether you are planning a large-scale industrial project, a renewable energy system, or simple outdoor wiring, choosing SWA cable ensures your installation will last for decades.

Read detailed guide: Armoured Cable: Types, Uses & Construction

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