What is the difference between BVR cables and RV cables? What are the main uses of BVR cables and RV cables?

2025-09-10 Leave a message

Yes, although both BVR and RV are flexible cables, both are composed of multiple strands of copper wire and are called PVC insulated flexible cables, their specifications are different. While the difference between the two may not be immediately apparent, to understand the relationship between BVR and RV cables, how can we distinguish them? First, let's learn what BVR cables are and what RV cables are.


What is the difference between BVR and RV cables?


1. BVR stands for Copper Core Polyethylene Insulated Flexible Sheathed Cable; a cable product used to transmit electrical (magnetic) energy, information, and power conversion. It is composed of an insulation layer and a conductor. It is a copper core polyethylene insulated flexible cable used in fixed routing applications where flexibility is required.


RV stands for Copper Core Polyethylene Insulated Flexible Cable. It is widely used in industrial power distribution equipment, particularly in flexible installations with strict requirements, such as cabinets, distribution boards, and various low-voltage electrical equipment. It can transmit power, electrical control system signals, and switch signals. RV cables feature a flexible structure, a small conductor bending radius, and are suitable for installation in humid and oily environments.


P.S.: When purchasing these two types of cables, you'll often notice the designations BV, BVR, and RV, but many people don't know what these letters stand for.

① The B series is classified as a fabric cable with an operating voltage of 450/750V. (For example, for indoor high-voltage wiring, it can be nailed to the wall.)

② The V stands for PVC, also known as a plastic cable jacket. (P.S.: One V represents one layer of insulation, and two Vs represent two layers.)


③ The L designates aluminum cable; cables without an L represent copper core cable. ④ The letter R stands for copper wire. To ensure flexibility, the number of conductors must be increased and the diameter of each wire must be reduced.


II. What are the similarities and differences between BVR cables and RV cables?


1. Similarities:

① Both types of cables are flexible cables, made of multi-core copper wires and called polyethylene-insulated flexible cables;

② Both have a simple structure, consisting of a conductor and a polyethylene sheath;

③ In terms of color, both come in a variety of colors: red, yellow, black, blue, green, and yellow-green. Home Improvement Wire Series

2. Differences:

① Specifications: BVR cables comply with GJB/T5023.3-2008/8734.2-2016, while RV cables comply with GB/T3956 Class 5/5023.5-2008.

② Voltage: BVR cables are classified as wiring cables, generally rated at 450/750V, while RV cables are primarily used as connecting wires within machinery and have higher voltage requirements, ranging from 450V/750V to as high as 600/1000V. Conductors: BVR conductors are Class 2 soft conductors, while RV conductors are Class 5 conductors.

③ Temperature: The operating temperature of BVR cables generally does not exceed 70°C, while RV cables can reach 80°C. Of course, heat-resistant versions are available for special requirements.

④ Appearance: Appearance-wise, the two cables differ. RV cables are softer than BVR cables. Furthermore, the copper wire in BVR cables is thicker than that in RV cables, which explains why RV cables are softer.


What are the main uses of BVR and RV cables?


Main Uses: BVR cables are primarily used as wiring cables, used in areas where flexibility is required for fixed routing. In many cases, they can replace BV cables, as they are softer. RV cables are primarily used for internal wiring of various appliances and machinery. They are also often used in security monitoring equipment and instrumentation. Therefore, RV cables are softer and are therefore known as "electronic cables."


Though the above detailed descriptions may not be immediately apparent, I believe you have learned some tips on how to distinguish them based on their different performance and characteristics. Generally speaking, there are differences between the two cables. BVR cables are softer than RV cables, and the copper wire in BVR cables is thicker than that in RV cables, which explains why RV cables are softer.


The above is a brief introduction to BVR cables and RV cables. I hope it will be helpful to everyone.