Enameled wire is a wire coated with a thin layer of insulation to prevent the wire surfaces from being in a short circuit when wound into coils. Magnetic flux is created when current flows through the coil. It is used mainly in the construction of motors, electromagnets, transformers and inductors. For ease of manufacturing inductive components like transformers and inductors, most of these wires can be soldered.
Enameled wires are classified by their diameter (AWG gauge number or millimetres), temperature class and insulation thickness. A thicker insulation layer results in a higher breakdown voltage (BDV). Common temperature classes are 130, 155, 180 and 200 °C.
The mechanical, electrical and chemical characteristics of aluminum magnet wire differ from those of copper magnet wire because of the inherent differences in the conductor materials. These differences are reflected in certain test procedures and/or performance requirements for aluminum magnet wire, such as elongation, adherence and flexibility, heat shock, scrape resistance, continuity and thermal endurance.
Large round sizes, all rectangular film coated and all fibrous covered wire shall have yield strength not less than 9000 PSI.