2 Core Open Wire

2 core open wire is a twin construction wire that combines phase and neutral conductors in a single run. It is commonly used for surface wiring of light points, ceiling fan drops, table fans, small appliances, and shop signages where running two single-strand wires separately is not convenient. The flat variant is especially popular for surface wiring along skirting and walls.

In the round variant, the two insulated cores are laid up together with a circular outer profile - useful when the wire is pulled through conduit or clipped to walls. In the flat variant, the two cores sit side by side in a flat ribbon, which is easier to fix flush along walls, skirting and ceilings using clips. Both are made to the same IS 694 standard with 99.9% pure copper conductors.

Standard PVC-insulated 2 core open wire is designed primarily for indoor use. For limited outdoor runs, it should be installed inside conduit and protected from direct sunlight, rain and mechanical damage. For long outdoor runs or buried installations, a sheathed 2 core cable or aluminium cable is generally a better fit.

Standard sizes are 0.75, 1.0, 1.5, 2.5 and 4.0 sq.mm per core. Smaller sizes (0.75–1.5 sq.mm) suit lights, fans and signage; 2.5 sq.mm is used for normal sockets and small appliances. Specific sizes and lengths can be confirmed at the time of enquiry.