Construction
Three symmetric power conductors with a full copper shield or armour, plus grounds, in 600 V and 1 kV ratings. Sizes typically 16 AWG through 500 kcmil.
Why symmetry matters
The symmetric conductor layout and full shield control the high-frequency noise a drive produces. A cable with a damaged shield or a repaired section is no longer a VFD cable in the electrical sense.
Checks before sale
Confirm the print, the conductor count, the shield type and the footage. Photograph any jacket damage and state whether the shield is continuous.
Where it turns up
Compressor stations, pumpjacks, water treatment and any plant replacing drives. Texas oilfield and municipal work produces most of what we see.