Flat copper braided connecting wires, also known as flat braids, are flexible conductors typically used for grounding, power connections, and shielding where vibration or movement is a factor.
Here is a comparison of typical product specifications from available suppliers:
| Feature / Specification | Small Cross-Sections (<10 mm²) | Medium to Large Cross-Sections (10-240 mm²) |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Applications | Grounding in electronics (e.g., inside electric guitars)-1, small equipment shielding-1 | Power transmission-2, grounding/earthing-2, potential equalization-2, heavy equipment connections-3 |
| Common Width | 3 mm - 12 mm-1-3 | 13 mm - 80 mm-2-5 |
| Common Thickness | 0.8 mm - 1.5 mm-1-3 | 1.0 mm - 6.5 mm-2 |
| Available Lengths | Fixed consumer lengths (e.g., 3m, 8m packs)-1-3 | Sold by the meter or custom-cut lengths-2-5 |
| Key Benefits | High flexibility, good heat dissipation-1 | Vibration resistance-2, low impedance for high frequencies-5, compensates for tolerances-5 |
???? How to Choose the Right Braid
Selecting the correct wire involves a few critical factors:
Cross-Sectional Area (mm²): This is the most important specification, determining the current-carrying capacity. For critical applications like primary power connections or safety grounding, you must follow local electrical codes or equipment manufacturer specifications.
Material and Coating: Most braids are made of pure copper-1-3.
Bare Copper: Standard for general use-2-5.
Tinned Copper: Has a silver-colored tin coating for better corrosion resistance and easier soldering-4-5.
Flexibility: Flexibility increases with the number of fine individual wires-2. For static connections, this is less critical; for moving parts, higher flexibility is essential.
Length Allowance: Remember that braided wire can shorten by about 30% when stretched-1. Always account for this when measuring.
⚙️ Where to Source and How to Install
For Standard Sizes (Consumer): Small, pre-packaged lengths for DIY projects are available on major online marketplaces-1-3-4.
For Custom/Industrial Needs: Specialized manufacturers like Haarlaender-2 and SPS-5 offer a full range of sizes, custom lengths, and professional plating options. They manufacture to standards like DIN 46444-2-5.
Installation Tip: For a reliable, low-resistance connection, the ends must be properly secured. Using a sleeve and a professional crimping tool is the recommended method to "cold-weld" the strands together-5. Avoid solder alone, as it can wick into the braid and make it brittle.
???? Next Steps
To narrow down your search, consider these questions:
What is the primary purpose? (e.g., electrical panel grounding, automotive engine ground strap, RF equipment shielding)
What is the required current rating or cross-sectional area?
Will the connection be subject to movement or vibration?https://store.unigulfsupply.com/product/flat-copper-braided-connecting-wire-11-8/