Hook-up wire in industry

Hook-up wire is a staple in electrical and electronic applications, used for internal wiring of equipment, control panels and circuit boards. Its versatility, insulation options and wide range of sizes make it essential for engineers, technicians and maintenance teams working across industrial sectors.

Whether you're building a prototype, repairing machinery or wiring a control cabinet, choosing the right hook-up wire ensures safe, efficient and long-lasting performance.

What is hook-up wire used for?

Hook-up wire is typically single-core, insulated wire designed for low-voltage, low-current applications. It’s commonly used in:

• Control panels and switchgear
• PCB wiring and prototyping
• Internal wiring of appliances and industrial equipment
• Automotive and marine electrical systems

The wire is available in various gauges (typically 16–28 AWG), insulation types and colours to suit different environments and identification needs. Colour-coded insulation helps streamline troubleshooting and maintenance, especially in complex systems.

Insulation types: PVC and halogen-free

Insulation plays a key role in determining where and how hook-up wire can be used. The choice of insulation materials directly impacts the wire's performance, durability, and suitability for specific environments. The most common insulation materials include:

• Polyvinyl chloride (PVC): Offers good flexibility, flame resistance and cost-effectiveness. Suitable for general-purpose indoor applications. Polyvinyl chloride is a widely used insulating material in hook-up wire due to its durability and versatility. PVC insulation provides reliable protection against moisture, abrasion, and chemicals, making it a popular choice in many electrical projects.
• Halogen-free insulation: Ideal for environments where fire safety and low smoke emissions are critical, such as public buildings or transport systems. Halogen-free insulation enhances safety by minimizing toxic fumes during a fire, making it a preferred choice in sensitive applications.

Each insulation type has its own temperature rating, voltage tolerance and compliance standards. Engineers should consider environmental exposure, mechanical stress and regulatory requirements when selecting wire types.

Among the trusted brands in the market, Unistrand stands out for its reliable and well-stocked range of hook-up wire. Designed to meet the needs of industrial users, Unistrand offers:

• A wide selection of PVC and halogen-free insulated hook-up wires
• Multiple colour options for easy circuit identification
• Sizes ranging from 2 to 12 poles, with other configurations available by special order
• Consistent product quality backed by industry approvals

Unistrand’s hook-up wire is suitable for both prototyping and production environments, making it a go-to choice for engineers and procurement teams alike. Whether you're wiring a control panel or assembling a PCB, Unistrand provides dependable solutions that meet technical and safety standards.

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Wiring starts here

Hook-up wire is a fundamental component in industrial electrical systems, offering flexibility, safety and ease of use. With insulation options like PVC, halogen-free, and polyvinyl chloride and trusted brands like Unistrand, engineers and technicians can find the right wire for any application.