Q: How do I know what size or gauge conductor I need?
A: The size of the conductor or the conductor "gauge" is mainly determined by two
factors. One is how many "amps" (amperes) you need to carry and the second is the
ambient temperature in the area of use.

Q: What determines flexibility in cable?
A: Certainly the type of insulation and/or jacket has a factor in flexibility; a rubber or
rubber based insulation will have more flexibility than, say, teflon. The main factor for
flexibility, however, is the stranding of the conductor. Given the same insulation and
jacketing materials the conductor with the more strands will be more flexible (i.e. a 16
gauge wire made of 26 strands will be more flexible than a 16 gauge made of 7 strands or
a solid conductor which is single strand).

Q: What is the maximum temperature rating for a wire that Cole Wire normally has in stock?
A: Type MG (or MGS or MGT) is rated to 450c.

Q: What is Cole Wire's freight allowed policy?
A: Cole Wire passes on all manufacturers freight policies. For most cable, 5000 pounds
is freight prepaid. For portable cord items such as Type SO, Type W, and Type GGC, 2000
pounds and for electronic cables (not data-comm) $2500.00.

Q: What is the minimum quantity required for striping orders?
A: 1000 feet per color.

Q: What is the normal lead time for striping orders from Cole Wire?
A: We guarantee 48 hours upon receipt of order for up to 50,000 ft. For larger orders, our
turnaround time is exceptional and of course depends on the total quantity.

Q: Do plenum cables have to be made with Teflon?
A: Only in data-comm cables (Cat 3 and Cat 5) or if the temperature requirement is 200c.

Q: Is there a charge for cutting specific lengths?
A: There are NO CUTTING CHARGES on material cut at Cole Wire.

Q: Does Cole Wire supply wire or cables that do not appear on this site?
A: YES! Just because you can't find your requirement on this site does not mean Cole
Wire can't provide it. Cole Wire specializes in "hard to find" items and custom design,
build, and stocking programs.

Q: If I have a manufacturer's part number, can Cole Wire cross it?
A: YES! As a matter of fact, if you go to the reference area you will find Belden to Cole,
Carol to Cole, and Olflex to Neuflex (Cole) cross reference charts. If you cannot find the
cross reference for these manufacturers or for other manufacturers, call a Cole Wire
representitive at 1.800.323.1403.