“The Ultimate Wire & Cable Knowledge Base”- Ask the wire guy is a place to get answers to your wire and cable questions.

• What does QPL mean?
  Mon, 11th Aug 2008 16:17 EDT
  
  A product that is QPL approved is listed on the appropriate Qualified Products List. The QPL is a product specification developed by the federal government. A QPL has the names...
• What is VDE?
  Mon, 11th Aug 2008 16:17 EDT
  
  The VDE denotes conformity with the VDE standards or European or internationally harmonized standards. VDE is a West Germany Approval Agency. According to VDE, the VDE Mark “is a symbol...
• What does UL listed mean?
  Mon, 11th Aug 2008 16:16 EDT
  
  If a wire or cable product is UL recognized or listed, the product meets public safety requirements as designated by the Underwriters Laboratories. Each UL spec is different.
• What does RoHS compliant mean?
  Mon, 11th Aug 2008 16:16 EDT
  
  RoHS refers to the Restriction of Hazardous Substances. The European Union instituted RoHS Directive 2002/95/EC, which banned six substances from being used in the manufacturing process. RoHS requires lead, cadium,...
• What is HAR?
  Mon, 11th Aug 2008 16:16 EDT
  
  Wire and cable products with the HAR mark designates that they comply with the European Harmonization Standard. The HAR mark is designated by CENELEC.
• What is the CE marking?
  Mon, 11th Aug 2008 16:16 EDT
  
  CE is an abbreviation for Conformité Européenne, which is French for European Conformity. A wire or cable product with the CE Marking can be sold into the European market. The...
• What is CSA certified?
  Mon, 11th Aug 2008 16:15 EDT
  
  If a product is CSA Certified, it has received the Canadian Standards Association approval for public safety.
• Are welding cables safe for everyday use?
  Mon, 11th Aug 2008 16:11 EDT
  
  Yes! Welding cables are great for a variety of reasons, but safety measures should always be taken when using them. In order to protect welding...
• In what applications can I use welding cable?
  Mon, 11th Aug 2008 16:11 EDT
  
  Welding cable can have a neoprene jacket, making it appropriate for tight battery applications, as well as a superior battery cable alternative. Welding cables can also be...
• Can I use welding cable in marine applications?
  Mon, 11th Aug 2008 16:10 EDT
  
  Although welding cable is often used for battery cables in marine applications, the insulation must be oil and water-resistant. If the cable is not oil and...