Xinya Blog / Sep 22, 2026
Drag Chain Cable Selection: UL2587, UL20549 and Flexible Control Cable
Drag chain cable is selected for moving machine axes, robots, automated handling systems and continuously flexing equipment. UL2587 and UL20549 are two documented shielded flexible control-cable styles in the Xinya range, but the correct selection depends on more than the style number.
UL2587 and UL20549 at a glance
| Item | UL2587 | UL20549 |
|---|---|---|
| Cable type | Shielded flexible multi-conductor cable | Shielded flexible multi-conductor cable |
| Typical use | Drag chain and robot applications | Drag chain and robot applications |
| Conductor range | Refer to construction table | Refer to construction table |
| Shield | Tinned flexible copper braid | Tinned flexible copper braid |
| Documented dimensions | Available by AWG and core count | Available by AWG and core count |
Open the UL2587 construction table or the UL20549 construction table to compare conductor diameter, insulation thickness, jacket thickness, overall diameter and resistance.
What matters in a drag chain
- Bend radius and available cable travel distance.
- Acceleration, speed and cycle frequency.
- Continuous or intermittent flexing.
- Number of cores and required signal or power capacity.
- Shield coverage and electrical noise environment.
- Oil, coolant, abrasion and temperature exposure.
- Mounting position and strain relief.
Style number is only the starting point
UL2587 and UL20549 identify cable styles, but the construction table determines conductor size, core count and dimensions. A cable that fits mechanically may still be unsuitable if the bend radius, jacket material or temperature rating does not match the application. Share the cable carrier model or the expected travel, speed and bend radius when requesting a quotation.
Documentation and approvals
Confirm the applicable UL file scope and the exact construction on the product page. Where a product is used in a finished assembly, the end-product approval remains the responsibility of the assembly manufacturer. Review the flexible industrial control cable series and the available compliance records.
FAQ
Can I choose UL2587 or UL20549 only by core count?
No. Check AWG, conductor construction, shield, jacket, diameter, bend radius and environmental requirements.
Is a shielded cable always required?
Shielding is selected when the application needs electrical noise control, grounding or signal integrity. Confirm the grounding method and connector termination.
What should I send for a quotation?
Send the style, AWG, number of cores, shield requirement, colour, length, cable carrier or bend data, and destination through the quote request form.
