Conductors and Insulation Sheath,
The copper or aluminium part of the cable which is wrapped in plastic or other materials (Insulating Sheath). The size of this conductor determines the amount of power outlets and/or lights the cable can carry.

Cambric Covered
The oldest type of cable. Usually single cores (one conductor). This will have a cloth covering a rubber sheath and will be installed in steel pipe (steel conduit) or wooden troughs (called capping and casing). Usually present in house wired during the 1920's to the early 1950's.

TRS (Tough Rubber Sheathed)
Usually two or three conductors sheathed in a black or white rubber compound. the cable is usually flat with the cables side by side. The rubber compound breaks down/rots in UV (Ultra Violet) light and can have a high fire risk, we recommend replacement as soon as it's found. TRS was used in the 1950's and early 1960's.

TPS (Tough Plastic Sheathed)
Currently in use in New Zealand. Usually two or three conductors or cores sheathed in white and coloured plastic. The cable is usually flat with the cores side by side. TPS has been used since the late 1960's to present. Some of the earlier types of TPS cable have a bare earth cable (no insulation), this will have a plastic "sleeve" applied when one of our Electrician's works on the circuit.

Contact us through our "Ask a Question" page if you'd like to know more.

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