What is a BVVVB Cable？

The term BVVVB is a cable designation code used primarily in China and countries following GB (Guobiao) standards (like GB/T 5023.6-2006). It refers to a specific type of flat, sheathed power cable commonly used for fixed wiring in buildings.

Here is the breakdown of the code:

• B: Category – Cloth wire (Installation wire).
• V: Insulation – PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride).
• V: Sheath – PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride).
• V: Often indicates a specific sheath property or structural variation (in this specific code, the repeating V’s indicate both inner insulation and outer sheathing are PVC).
• B: Shape – Flat (Parallel).

In plain English: It is a flat, copper-core cable with PVC insulation and a PVC outer sheath.

2. Key Characteristics

• Structure: It consists of solid copper conductors laid side-by-side (parallel), covered individually in PVC insulation, and then wrapped together in a flat rectangular PVC outer jacket.
• Conductor: Usually Solid Copper (Class 1) or sometimes stranded (Class 2), depending on the specific manufacturer, but BVVVB usually implies solid.
• Voltage Rating: typically 300/500V.
• Shape: Flat (not round). This is a crucial distinction.
• Temperature: Standard operating temperature is usually up to 70°C.

3. BVVVB vs. BVVB (The Extra ‘V’)

You will often see BVVB and BVVVB.

• BVVB: Flat, PVC insulated, PVC sheathed.
• BVVVB: This code is less common in standard international nomenclature but typically refers to a variation with slightly thicker insulation or a specific double-sheathing process intended for better mechanical protection. However, in many markets, BVVB is the standard term for this flat cable, and BVVVB is virtually identical in usage.

4. Common Applications

Because it is flat and sheathed, BVVVB is designed for surface mounting or simple installation where conduit might not be used (though it can be used in conduit).

• Surface Wiring: It is easily nailed or clipped directly to walls or timber beams because it lies flat and looks neater than round cable.
• Home Decoration: Commonly used in residential lighting and socket wiring where the wire cannot be buried deep in the wall.
• Retrofitting: Excellent for adding new power points to existing finished walls without major construction work.

5. Why Choose BVVVB? (Pros & Cons)

Pros:

• Space Saving: The flat profile takes up less vertical space than round cables.
• Heat Dissipation: Flat cables generally dissipate heat slightly better than round multi-core cables because the conductors are not bundled as tightly together in a circle.
• Protection: The double layer of PVC (Insulation + Sheath) offers better protection against humidity, corrosion, and minor physical damage compared to single-insulated wires (like BV).

Cons:

• Flexibility: Because the cores are laid parallel and the jacket is flat, it can be harder to bend around sharp corners compared to round cable. It only bends easily in one direction (up/down, not side-to-side).
• Outdoor Use: While PVC is durable, standard BVVVB is not UV resistant. It should not be used outdoors in direct sunlight without protection, or it will crack over time.

Here are 6 frequently asked questions (FAQs) regarding BVVVB cables to help you understand their usage and specifications better.

1. What is the difference between BVVVB and standard BV wire?

BV wire is a single-core wire with only one layer of insulation. It is typically used inside conduits or pipes.
BVVVB is a multi-core (usually 2 or 3 cores), flat cable with two layers of protection: the inner insulation around the copper and an outer protective sheath. Because of this double layer, BVVVB can be installed directly on surfaces without conduit, whereas BV wire generally requires conduit for protection.

2. Can I use BVVVB cable outdoors?

Generally, no. Standard BVVVB cable usually features PVC insulation and sheathing that is not UV-stabilized. Exposure to direct sunlight will cause the outer jacket to become brittle and crack over time, leading to safety hazards. If you must use it outdoors, it should be run inside a UV-resistant conduit or trunking.

3. What does the “Flat” shape of BVVVB offer over round cables (RVV)?

The flat shape offers two main advantages:

• Aesthetics and Installation: It lies flush against walls and timbers, making it much neater for surface mounting (using cable clips). It is less obtrusive than round cable when run along skirting boards or ceilings.
• Heat Dissipation: Because the conductors are laid side-by-side rather than bundled in a tight circle, heat dissipates slightly more efficiently.

4. Is BVVVB cable flexible or rigid?

BVVVB is generally considered a rigid cable. It typically uses solid copper conductors (Class 1) rather than stranded copper. While you can bend it, it is designed for fixed wiring installations (permanent placement) rather than for appliances that move around (like a vacuum cleaner or extension cord).

5. What is the maximum voltage rating for BVVVB?

BVVVB cables are typically rated for 300/500V. This makes them suitable for standard household voltage (110V–240V) used in lighting, power outlets, and switches, but they are not suitable for high-voltage industrial machinery or main service entrances that exceed 500V.

6. Can I bury BVVVB cable underground?

No. You should not bury standard BVVVB cable directly in the ground. It does not have the mechanical strength or the moisture resistance required for direct burial. If you need to run it underground, it must be placed inside a sealed, waterproof conduit, but it is better to use a dedicated armored underground cable (like SWA) for such applications.

Summary

If you are wiring a house interior, specifically for surface-mounted runs or tight spaces where a flat profile is beneficial, BVVVB (or the very similar BVVB) is a standard, safe choice for voltages up to 500V. It is the flat alternative to the standard round sheathed cables (like RVV).

Danyang Winpower Wire and Cable Mfg Co., Ltd. Manufacturer of electrical equipment and supplies, main products include power cords, wiring harnesses and electronic connectors. Applied to smart home systems, photovoltaic systems, energy storage systems, and electric vehicle systems