What does TPS stand for in electrical cable?

When dealing with wiring in homes or buildings, you may come across the term TPS cable. But what exactly does TPS mean, and how is it different from other types of cable like TPI cable or regular electrical wiring?

TPS stands for Thermoplastic Sheathed. It refers to a type of electrical cable that has a core (or cores) insulated with thermoplastic material, then wrapped in an outer thermoplastic sheath. It’s most commonly used in fixed wiring for residential and light commercial settings—like lighting circuits, power points, and switchboards.

One reason TPS cable is so widely used is its clean and simple design. It usually comes in a flat or oval shape, making it easy to install behind walls, in ceilings, or under floors. Most TPS cables come with two or three insulated conductors inside—typically active (live), neutral, and earth wires.

The outer sheath provides mechanical protection and electrical insulation. It also helps resist moisture, which makes TPS cables suitable for indoor use in dry environments. However, they are not recommended for direct burial underground or for constant exposure to sunlight, unless marked otherwise.

Now, you might also hear about TPI cable—which refers to Thermoplastic Insulated cable. This type focuses more on the insulation of individual wires rather than a full outer sheath. TPI cables are often used in environments where higher heat or chemical resistance is required, such as in industrial machines, radiation-resistant zones, or medical devices.

The main difference between TPS and TPI cable lies in structure and purpose. TPS cable is sheathed, easy to install in buildings, and meant for fixed wiring. TPI cable, on the other hand, is designed for specialized environments and often has stronger resistance to harsh conditions.

Other related cables include twin and earth cable, which is essentially a form of TPS with two insulated cores and one uninsulated ground wire. Another is flat power cable, used where a compact profile is important. These cables all aim to carry power safely, but each is built for a specific setting.

When choosing between TPS and other types like TPI cable, it’s important to consider where the cable will be used, what the voltage and temperature conditions are, and whether flexibility or protection is more important. For example, a house renovation will likely use TPS for most wiring needs, while a radiation lab may need the durability of TPI cable.

TPS means Thermoplastic Sheathed cable, a widely used type of flat cable in regular electrical setups. While it serves most day-to-day wiring jobs well, professionals should also know about alternatives like TPI cable, Radiation Resistant TPI Cable, and Nuclear TPI Cable when working in extreme conditions. Choosing the right cable means safer systems and longer-lasting performance.