While they share many commonalities and look near identical from the exterior, there is a significant difference between CNE (Combined Neutral & Earth) and SNE (Separate Neutral Earth) cables. With a CNE cable, there is only a bare earth conductor within the cable, while the SNE has identified neutral and bare earth conductors when you look inside the cable.
Both cabling products feature circular stranded hard-drawn copper phase conductors, durable polyethylene sheaths with nylon ripcords below the sheath, and XLPE insulation with concentrically arranged identified conductors. They are the same small-size diameter and feature a low mass as there is no wire armour in the construct. The CNE and SNE cables provide improved reliability compared to years ago, with a UV stable sheath, core insulation and water blocking that allows the cable to operate in harsh environments. Thanks to advancements in the manufacturing, both are tamper- and vandalproof with a concentric centre inhibiting unauthorised access to the phase conductor.
