In electrical circuits, we see wires of different colors, each with different functions. So, what do the different colors represent?
What do the different colors represent?
1. Red: It represents the live wire, usually represented by the letter "l". This color is very bright and visually creates a sense of tension, serving as a warning, so it is used for live wires.
2. Blue and black: They represent the neutral wire, usually represented by the letter "n". This wire is the neutral wire in electrical wiring. It is generally uncharged, but may become charged under special circumstances.
3. Green or green-yellow: It represents the ground wire, an insulated conductor that provides protection in circuits. When the neutral wire is disconnected, it becomes charged, and the ground wire effectively prevents electric shock from the live neutral wire. However, this wire should never be used as a live wire under any circumstances.
Why are wires color-coded?
The primary reason for color-coding wires is to ensure electrical safety and prevent wiring errors. This helps us better identify the locations of individual wires, reduces the risk of misoperation, and improves wiring safety.
It also facilitates future electrical repairs, allowing repair personnel to quickly locate faults. For example, in home lighting circuits, the live wire is typically bright red, ensuring accurate installation. However, the live wires of different circuits must be distinguished by different colors. This makes it easier to identify which live wire is at fault if a problem occurs.
The color codes for electrical wiring are very strict. For example, yellow and green two-color wire cannot be substituted with other types of wire. For DC power, the positive terminal must be red, and the negative terminal must be black.
