What general classification of power cables is designed to prevent leakage and external interference?

The classification of power cables designed to prevent leakage and external interference is shielded cables. Shielded cables are constructed with a conductive layer, often made of copper or aluminum foil, that surrounds the insulating layer of the conductors. This shielding serves a dual purpose: it protects the signal being transmitted within the cable from external electromagnetic interference (EMI) and minimizes any leakage of electromagnetic energy.

By creating a barrier, the shielding effectively reduces the impact of nearby electronic devices, power lines, and radio signals that could otherwise disrupt the integrity of the power transmission or data being carried. This is especially important in environments with high electrical noise or in applications where signal fidelity is critical.

Unshielded cables, on the other hand, lack this additional barrier and are more susceptible to external interference and electromagnetic fields, making them unsuitable for situations where protection from leakage and interference is a priority. Single-phase and multi-conductor designations describe the configuration of the cables but do not inherently address the need for shielding to prevent leakage or external interference.