In a Wireless Age, Cables are Transforming Manufacturing

In a wireless age, the use of cables may be losing its function in some industries. However, for others, the role they play is as important as ever. In the case of manufacturing, as technology becomes increasingly integrated, so does the prominence of cables.

Cables are key for both the delivery of electricity to machinery and transporting digital information between consoles and departments. They also do a whole lot more, playing a vital part in ensuring the safety of workers and creating streamlined forms of communication between staff and robotics.

In the future, technological advancements in manufacturing will rely even more on the increased efficiency and safety of cables. While innovation is key to manufacturing’s success, safety should always be the priority.

Wired Connections Offer Efficiency

The 5G revolution is tipped to bring new speeds and capabilities to technological sectors. However, maintaining cabled connections is key because wired connections enable businesses to use a dedicated bandwidth. Benefits include faster information transfers, reduced risk of network transfer interruptions and fewer chances of connection outages — all essential for an industry that relies on efficiency.

Connection outages can halt the production process, particularly where automation is used. Burdening costs and lost profitability are the consequences. For safety, a wired connection is always the most reliable and secure compared to a wireless connection.

Industrial Ethernet means that information can be processed at high speeds and transferred to machinery. When devices are working in unison and in sync with each other, this speed is essential. While wireless capabilities continue to improve, cables will still produce the most efficient form of connection.

Robots Need Wires and Cable Management Systems

Robots come with a large amount of movement on a shop floor. However, with the efficiency of cabled connections, robot wires must withstand a high amount of stress and tension through their constant and alternating bending cycles. Because of this, special requirements for wires are needed to prevent breakages and other safety concerns. These wires must be protected from damaging conditions, including exposure to oil, chemicals and high temperatures.

With the number of wires required by robots, the use of robust cable management systems is another way that wires can be protected. These systems separate wires when they pass into electrical enclosure boxes. When wires are exposed for connection, particles are prevented from touching the cables. This is particularly important for operator safety.

Improved Insulation and Voltage Grade

Improving insulation and voltage grade within cables has been a major focus in recent years. The industry’s objective is to produce better quality polymers to reduce the thickness of insulation while maintaining strength.

Smoke-retardant PVC is becoming commonly used in place of regular PVC in manufacturing. PVC has long stood as a useful insulator for wires because of its flame and oil resistance. However, in the event of a fire, the plastic coating produces a high quantity of smoke. While the innovation of thermoset plastic is not new, its use as cable coating is now more appropriate. If caught on fire, low levels of smoke are produced.

Teflon is another alternative to PVC. It is predominantly used for low voltage or communicative wiring, essential for manufacturing. While PVC can withstand temperatures of around 160°F, Teflon can withstand heat of around 480°F.