Coaxial cables are essential in everything from TV distribution to wireless communication systems. While the center conductor and shielding get most of the technical attention, there’s one component that often goes unnoticed — the plastic outer cover, also known as the jacket. But is it just a protective skin, or does it play a larger role?
In this guide, we’ll explore the real function of a coaxial cable’s plastic cover, why material selection matters, and how to choose the right jacket for your environment.
What Is the Plastic Cover in a Coaxial Cable?
Technical Name – Outer Jacket
The plastic cover of a coaxial cable is technically called the outer jacket. It’s the outermost layer that protects all the inner conductive and insulating components.
Common Materials Used
Depending on application needs, different materials are used:
- PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) – economical and flexible
- PE (Polyethylene) – rugged and weather-resistant
- LSZH (Low Smoke Zero Halogen) – flame retardant, low toxicity
- FEP (Fluorinated Ethylene Propylene) – chemical and temperature resistant
Where It Sits in the Cable Structure
[Center Conductor] → [Dielectric Insulation] → [Shield/Braid] → [Outer Jacket (Plastic Cover)] The jacket is the final barrier between the internal signal core and the environment.
Primary Functions of the Plastic Outer Cover
The plastic cover isn’t just for looks. It plays multiple functional roles:
1. Physical Protection
It shields the internal layers from:
- Mechanical impact and abrasion
- Cuts during installation
- Crushing during cable runs
2. Environmental Shielding
Depending on material, jackets can provide resistance against:
- UV rays (for outdoor use)
- Moisture and humidity
- Corrosive chemicals or oils
3. Electrical Isolation
The jacket prevents accidental contact with:
- Grounded surfaces
- Nearby conductive elements
This ensures safety and system stability.
4. Structural Integrity
- Helps maintain bend radius
- Preserves cable shape during routing
- Enables easier pulling through conduits
Quick Check: Is your coax cable routed through walls, ceilings, or rooftops? If yes, jacket durability and rating matter greatly.
Material Comparison Table
| Jacket Material | UV Resistance | Flexibility | Flame Retardancy | Outdoor Suitability | Typical Use Cases |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PVC | Medium | High | High | Indoor | Home TV, CCTV |
| PE | High | Medium | Low | Outdoor | Satellite, antennas |
| LSZH | Medium | High | Very High | Indoor (Plenum) | Data centers, OEM |
| FEP | Excellent | Medium | Excellent | Harsh Environments | Military, chemical plants |
Reference: Cable Jacket Types – CablesPlus USA
What Happens If the Plastic Cover Is Damaged?
A damaged jacket compromises the entire integrity of your system.
Risk 1: Water Ingress
- Moisture can corrode the shield or conductor
- Causes impedance mismatch and signal loss
Risk 2: Safety Hazards
- Exposed shielding can cause arcing or grounding issues
- In plenum spaces, it may violate fire codes
Risk 3: Shorter Lifespan
- Cracks or UV degradation weaken cable strength
- Accelerates aging under outdoor exposure
Can You Repair It?
Minor jacket scuffs can be sealed with:
- Heat shrink tubing
- Self-amalgamating rubber tape
But for long-term reliability, replacement is recommended for outdoor or critical use.
How to Choose the Right Jacket for Your Application
Use this judgment checklist to match jacket material with your environment:
Ask Yourself:
- Is this cable exposed to sunlight or rain?
- Will it be used in a false ceiling or plenum-rated space?
- Do you need it to resist chemicals or oil?
- Are there any fire or smoke safety codes in the building?
Indoor Use
- PVC or LSZH
- Focus on flexibility and flame retardancy
Outdoor Use
- PE is preferred
- Ensure UV resistance and water repellency
Harsh Environments
- FEP or custom-jacketed cables
- Used in oil refineries, ships, or chemical plants
Bafitop’s Coaxial Cable Jacket Options
We offer a variety of jacket configurations to meet global project demands:
RG6 with PVC Jacket
- Affordable and flexible
- Ideal for indoor TV, CCTV
RG11 with PE Jacket
- Long-distance outdoor use
- Resistant to UV, abrasion, water
LSZH Jacketed Coax
- For public buildings, OEM use
- Low smoke, flame retardant
| Model Code | Jacket Type | Use Environment | Outer Diameter | Available Colors |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BFT-RG6-PVC | PVC | Indoor | 6.8 mm | Black, White |
| BFT-RG11-PE | PE | Outdoor | 10.2 mm | Black |
| BFT-LSZH-RG59 | LSZH | Indoor (fire zone) | 6.1 mm | White |
Need datasheets? Request here
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Is the plastic jacket the same as the insulation?
A: No. Insulation covers the center conductor. The jacket is the external protective layer.
Q2: Can I use an indoor cable outside if I add conduit?
A: Not recommended. Jackets rated for UV and moisture should be used outdoors.
Q3: What is the best material for underground coaxial cable?
A: PE with gel-filled versions or double jackets for burial protection.
Q4: Does jacket color mean anything?
A: Not functionally. But colors help with identification (e.g., white for indoor, black for outdoor).
Q5: Are custom jacket materials available?
A: Yes. Bafitop provides OEM/ODM coax cables with tailored outer covers.
Let’s Help You Choose the Right Coaxial Cable
Choosing the right outer jacket isn’t just a materials decision — it’s about long-term performance, safety, and compliance. At Bafitop, we offer:
- PVC / PE / LSZH / FEP jacketed RF cables
- Bulk supply for system integrators
- OEM labeling and custom length services
- Technical support on environmental specs
📧 Email: sales@bafitop.com
📞 Phone: +86-15817341810
👉 Contact us now to get datasheets, engineering drawings, or a tailored quote.
