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I assume all internal controller wiring should be stranded to handle any potential vibration?
I'm thinking for simplicity I'd use all 18 AWG for everything except the mains and router etc.
Are twisted pairs and/or shielding needed for wiring between the step controller and stepper drives over relative short distances?
You'd normally use MTW wire for the control box.
18 awg is much larger than needed for low voltage and step/dir wires.
Only if you are using differential signals.Quote:
Are twisted pairs and/or shielding needed for wiring between the step controller and stepper drives over relative short distances?
I know. My thought was to use a jacketed 4, 5, or 6 conductor wire and use the same wire for the stepper motors that are stationary. It seemed that any twisted or shielded wire was cheapest by the foot at 18 AWG. I assume its a volume manufacturing thing.Quote:
Originally Posted by ger21
I'll investigate the MTW, honestly never though of that. Trying to keep cost to a minimum.
You can probably use 20 or 22 gauge for everything.
500' of 20 gauge MTW wire is only about 20 bucks.
For control enclosure wiring it is definitely customary to use stranded conductors, there is TEW/MTW etc, but if packing a lot of conductors in a raceway, I use TR64 control wire, the insulation is not so heavy as the other two, but still retains the voltage insulation value.
Al.