What criteria are used to categorize cables based on their protective sheath materials, and what distinct characteristics define each category?

Cable classification by sheath materials encompasses diverse polymer formulations tailored to specific environmental demands. Chlorosulfonated polyethylene (CSPE) variants—thermoset cross-linked compounds—deliver exceptional resilience across -40°C to +148°C temperature ranges, with specialized grades tolerating higher thermal extremes. Their resistance to cold flow, mechanical impact, and abrasion makes them ideal for outdoor installations, mining operations, and oil/gas facilities requiring robust environmental protection.   Medium-density polyethylene (MDPE) sheaths, conversely, find application in larger-diameter cables, balancing flexibility with structural integrity for underground and subsea deployments. Polychloroprene (PCP) sheaths, derived from early synthetic rubber technology, offer superior tear and abrasion resistance, suiting dynamic environments where mechanical stress is prevalent. Ethylene propylene rubber (EPR) insulated cables, while technically an insulation category, feature sheath-compatible formulations that enhance chemical resistance and thermal stability, expanding their utility in industrial processing plants and harsh chemical exposure scenarios.