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  1. #1

    Question Controller Wiring Type

    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?

  2. #2
    Join Date
    Mar 2003
    Posts
    35538

    Re: Controller Wiring Type

    You'd normally use MTW wire for the control box.

    18 awg is much larger than needed for low voltage and step/dir wires.

    Are twisted pairs and/or shielding needed for wiring between the step controller and stepper drives over relative short distances?
    Only if you are using differential signals.
    Gerry

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    (Note: The opinions expressed in this post are my own and are not necessarily those of CNCzone and its management)

  3. #3

    Re: Controller Wiring Type

    Quote Originally Posted by ger21 View Post
    18 awg is much larger than needed for low voltage and step/dir wires..
    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.

    I'll investigate the MTW, honestly never though of that. Trying to keep cost to a minimum.

  4. #4
    Join Date
    Mar 2003
    Posts
    35538

    Re: Controller Wiring Type

    You can probably use 20 or 22 gauge for everything.

    500' of 20 gauge MTW wire is only about 20 bucks.
    Gerry

    UCCNC 2017 Screenset
    http://www.thecncwoodworker.com/2017.html

    Mach3 2010 Screenset
    http://www.thecncwoodworker.com/2010.html

    JointCAM - CNC Dovetails & Box Joints
    http://www.g-forcecnc.com/jointcam.html

    (Note: The opinions expressed in this post are my own and are not necessarily those of CNCzone and its management)

  5. #5
    Join Date
    Dec 2003
    Posts
    24216

    Re: Controller Wiring Type

    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.
    CNC, Mechatronics Integration and Custom Machine Design

    “Logic will get you from A to B. Imagination will take you everywhere.”
    Albert E.

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