What are the bare strands of wire wound around insulated wires of service entrance cable used for?

The bare strands of wire wound around the insulated wires of service entrance cable are primarily used for making the neutral when twisted together. This configuration allows the neutral to function as a return path for electrical current in a system.

In electrical systems, the neutral wire is essential for safety and proper operation, as it balances the load between the phase conductors. The twisting together of the bare strands with the insulated wires helps ensure that the neutral has a low resistance path, which can improve electrical performance and safety. This design is part of how the service entrance cable is constructed to ensure that the overall system operates efficiently and safely.

Understanding the role of the neutral is critical in electrical wiring and installations, as it directly impacts the functioning of electrical appliances and the overall safety of the electrical system.