What is the purpose of stranded conductors?

Stranded conductors are primarily designed for flexibility and ease of installation. This configuration, made up of multiple smaller wires twisted together, allows the conductor to bend and flex more easily compared to a solid conductor. This flexibility is particularly beneficial in applications where the wire needs to navigate around corners or fit into tight spaces without breaking. Additionally, stranded wires can handle movement and vibration better, making them ideal for applications in machinery and vehicles.

While stranded conductors do have implications for electrical resistance and heat conductivity, these factors are not the primary purposes of their design. Compared to solid conductors, stranded conductors may have slightly higher resistance due to the increased surface area relative to their cross-sectional area, but this is a secondary consideration. The focus of using stranded conductors remains on their flexibility, which is essential in many electrical installations where maneuverability is crucial.