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Although
the terms ‘cable assembly’ and ‘wire harness’ are used in place of each other,
they aren’t the same thing. The ever-existing confusion between both these
products is quite understandable. Most of the commercial facilities or
businesses use these terms interchangeably, which creates confusion about their
functionalities and applications.
While
there are not much difference in their basic functions, wire harnesses and
custom cable assemblies differ in terms of specialized attributes. Therefore,
it’s quite essential and important to understand the differences between these
products. That will help you develop an idea of their applications in
distinctive projects.
Significant
aspects to consider
Before
delving deep into understanding the characteristics of these two crucial
components, it will be imperative to know about other factors. Comprehending
the difference between cables and wires will be the key to understanding
differences between wire harnesses and cable assemblies.
·
Wires: These
are metal strands capable of conducting electricity. You can get them in
aluminum and copper.
·
Cables:
Cables happen to be the combination of numerous wires. It might be two or more
than that, and they are bonded together.
It’s
quite evident that both these components are different from each other. Quite
naturally, their functions and applications will also differ considerably. On
that note, it’s high time to take a look at the distinctive characteristics of a
custom wire harness and cable
assemblies.
Understanding
the difference
According
to market definition, wire harnesses are nothing but exterior sheath imparting
an external protection to cables and wires. On the other end, cable assemblies
are referred to as wires and cables bunched into a group.
It’s
here that we come across a crucial question. What is it that makes both these
components different? Let’s carry on with the discussion concerning the
following parameters:
1. The
manufacturing material
Wire
harnesses are manufactured from thermoset or thermoplastic, which imparts
optimum protection. Wire harnesses contain multiple cables with individual
coverings within a single harness.
When
it comes to cable assemblies, you will come across quite a few manufacturing
materials. From shrink-wrapped thermoplastics and vinyl to thermoplastic
rubber, cable assemblies are made out of various materials. Although cable
assemblies play a highly crucial role in organizing cables and wires, they find
application in diverse projects.
2. The
distinctive functionalities
In
spite of similar basic functions, both wire harnesses, and cable assemblies
have distinguished functionalities. While a wire harness finds its perfect
application in electrical contracts and engineering projects, the custom cable
assembly is used to impart protection to home wiring systems.
Cable
assemblies shield individual wires and ensure optimum protection against
abrasion, compression, friction, moisture, and several other accidents. On the
other end, wire harnesses emerge as low-cost solutions for protection against
temperature swings.
Concluding
thoughts
With these
distinctive functionalities and applications, wire harnesses and custom cable
assemblies seem to be quite different from each other. However, planning your custom wire
harness purchase with pioneering manufacturers like Peter’s Technology will
be the best thing to do. You will get certified and tested
products, adhering to topmost quality standards.
Resource:https://peterstechnology.wordpress.com/2016/10/19/wire-harness-vs-cable-assembly-whats-the-difference/
Resource:https://peterstechnology.wordpress.com/2016/10/19/wire-harness-vs-cable-assembly-whats-the-difference/