16A to 400A cables: how to choose and use them safely

Picking the right cable for your power needs might seem straightforward, but getting it wrong can lead to overheating, voltage drops, or even safety hazards. However, with a bit of planning and the right equipment, you can make sure everything runs smoothly and safely.

Here at Rubber Box, we’ve spent decades helping customers get their power distribution just right. From small events to industrial setups, we know exactly what works and what doesn’t. So, here’s our simple guide to choosing and using everything from 16A to 400A cables and everything in between safely.

Know your cable ratings

Cables come in all shapes and sizes, and each is rated for a certain amount of current. A 16A cable might be perfect for lighting or small appliances, but it won’t cope with a three-phase supply feeding a large stage or industrial site. On the other end, 400A cables are built for serious, heavy-duty use.

At Rubber Box, we’ve made it simple by grouping our supplies into 16A, 32A, 63A, 125A, and 400A ranges. Each category includes matching extension cables, Y-cords, meter boxes, and protective accessories, so you can quickly pick products that work together safely and reliably.

Accessories matter

Even the right cable can become damaged if left unprotected. That’s where accessories like cable bridges, ramps, and end pieces come into play. These items protect cables from foot traffic, vehicles, and general wear, while also reducing trip hazards for the team working around them.

If you need to add a meter or keep connections dry outdoors, we also have energy meter boxes and weatherproof enclosures to make sure that your connections stay secure. Additionally, our connectors and Y-cords are rated to the same ampacity and phase as your supply, so you can rest assured that nothing will become overstressed.

Simple tips for safe use

Safety doesn’t have to be complicated; it just takes a bit of attention to the basics. Always make sure you don’t exceed the rated current of your cable or connector, as pushing them beyond their limits can cause overheating or damage. It’s also important to check that phase and polarity match correctly for your setup, and to inspect plugs, sockets, and cable sheaths for any signs of wear or damage before each use.

Picking the right cables for your job

Choosing the right cables from the start makes planning any project much simpler. For smaller setups, like event lighting, 16A extension cables or Y-cords are usually all you need. Medium-scale installations, such as stage distributions, benefit from 63A or 125A three-phase extensions, paired with protective cable accessories to ensure safety and reliability.

When it comes to large industrial power jobs, the 400A distribution range is the ideal choice, especially when used with heavy-duty routing accessories. Matching the correct supply with the right cables keeps the whole setup safe, dependable, and easy to manage for your team.

That’s just a quick overview of the main things to consider when choosing the right cables for your project. At Rubber Box, we have an extensive range of cables, power distro boxes and accessories available for fast delivery and at competitive prices. Whether you’re looking for extension cables, cable bridge connectors, cable bridge elbows, end pieces, or more, we’ve got everything you need to get your setup connected safely and reliably.

Our products are designed with safety and peace of mind at their heart, and they’re trusted by customers across a variety of sectors, from sports and entertainment to the arts. If you’re unsure about ratings, capabilities, or which products are best for your job, just give us a call on 01282 677 910. We’re always happy to offer advice and guidance to make sure your installation is safe, efficient, and easy!