A wire is a metal strand that is flexible. Drawing metal through a hole in a die or draw plate is a common way to make wire. Wire gauges are measured in gauge numbers and available in a variety of sizes. Wires, commonly in the form of wire rope, are used to support mechanical loads. A wire can refer to an electrical cable that contains a "solid core" of a single wire or distinct strands in stranded or braided forms in electricity and telecommunications signals. Wire and cable insulation and jacketingInsulating materials such as plastic, rubber-like polymers, or varnish are commonly used to cover electrical cables.