When should I choose 3.5 core instead of 4 core?

For balanced three-phase feeders in larger sizes, a reduced neutral is enough and costs less. Where loads are unbalanced or non-linear (many single-phase or electronic loads), choose 4 core with a full-size neutral.

Which sizes does 3.5 core cable come in?

3.5 core cable is made in the standard sizes for its type; power cables in 1.5, 2.5, 4, 6, 10, 16, 25, 35, 50, 70, 95, 120, 150, 185, 240, 300, 400 sq mm and above. Tell us the size and length you need.

Copper is smaller for the same current and easier to terminate. Aluminium is lighter and cheaper in larger sizes and long feeders.

3.5 Core Cable: Polycab Armoured XLPE, Copper & Aluminium

Quick answer

3.5 core cable has three full-size phase cores and a smaller neutral, about half the size. It is the usual choice for three-phase feeders with neutral in larger sizes, typically from 25 sq mm upwards, and saves copper or aluminium over a 4 core cable.

What the cores are

Three phase conductors (R, Y, B) plus a reduced neutral. Used where the neutral current is lower than the phase current, as in balanced three-phase distribution.

Polycab 3.5 core cable types

Type	Conductor	Armour	Voltage	Use
LV power cable, Cu armoured (2XWY)	Copper	GI round wire	1.1 kV	Main and sub-main feeders
LV power cable, Al armoured (A2XWY)	Aluminium	GI round wire	1.1 kV	Long feeders, building and factory mains

Photos

Polycab LV power cable, Cu armoured (2XWY) — LV power cable, Cu armoured (2XWY)

Polycab LV power cable, Al armoured (A2XWY) — LV power cable, Al armoured (A2XWY)

Standard sizes

Power cables are made in 1.5, 2.5, 4, 6, 10, 16, 25, 35, 50, 70, 95, 120, 150, 185, 240, 300, 400 sq mm and above. Choose the size for the load current, the length and how the cable is laid.

Armoured or unarmoured?

Armoured cable is for buried, outdoor and industrial routes; unarmoured for trays and conduits. Armoured vs unarmoured cable explains the choice.

Other cores and sizes

How to order

Send us the size, number of cores, conductor (copper or aluminium), armoured or not, and the length on WhatsApp, and we will confirm the exact Polycab code, availability and rate. We deliver across India.

3.5 core cables