Identifying Key Differentiators Between A Custom Wire Harness And Cable Assembly

Custom-designed cable assemblies and custom wire harnesses perform distinctive functions. However, most of the times, these components are considered to be synonymous. A majority of businesses, operators, and commercial facilities use these terms in place of each other. Perhaps, that’s the reason for their confusing identities. It’s imperative to understand the difference between a ‘custom wire harness’ and ‘cable assembly.'

If you too confuse between these two terms, it’s high time to know their real connotations along with the functions performed by each of them.

Unraveling the significant factors

With basic functions remaining almost the same, it is the special attributes that differentiate these two components. Knowing about these specialized functions and attributes will be the key to comprehending their difference. Before diving deep into chalking out the differences, it will be better to define them first.

·         Cable assemblies: A cable assembly refers to the collection of two or more cables, bundled together in a single strand. Cable assemblies usually contain wires that find application in connecting devices.

·         Wires: Wires are electricity conducting components. Almost all the wires are available in either copper or aluminum.

The definition indicates towards the difference between these two electrical components. Although both of them find application in critical projects, it’s imperative to identify their individuality.

What makes them different?

Quite a few parameters can draw a point of difference between these two components. While cable assemblies are a bunch of wires, the ‘wire harness’ is a protective sheath for wires and cables. On that note, let’s take a look at their individual functions and operations.

1.      Distinctive functions:

Although the basic functions are same, it’s the individual functionalities making all the difference. Custom cable assemblies find application in electrical projects. However, they have widespread usage in home wiring systems too. On the other end, custom wire harnesses are used in heavy engineering and electrical projects

2.      Difference in roles:

Cable assemblies and wire harnesses also differ in their protective functions. While a custom cable assembly can protect wires against friction, compression, moisture, and other accidents, wire harnesses will protect a device against temperature changes.

3.      Manufacturing materials:

Wire harnesses and custom cable assemblies are made up of different materials. While thermoplastic is the manufacturing material for wire harnesses, quite a few materials are used while manufacturing cable assemblies.

Materials like shrink-wrapped thermoplastics, thermoplastics, and vinyl find application in the manufacture of the cable assemblies. These materials impart a unique strength to the cables thus enhancing their power and performance.

Parting thoughts:

These are some of the crucial factors that differentiate between wire harnesses and cable assemblies. In spite of their differences, both these components share one aspect in common. From simple operations to critical projects, both of them find application in countless processes. Whether it’s a cable assembly or wire harness, optimum user safety and lucid functionality is all that you achieve.

Buying top-quality and highly functional wire harnesses can prove to be overwhelming if you don’t know where to look for them. Getting the high-precision custom wire harness from Peter’s Technology will be the smartest move.