EuroWire March 2020

Technology News

Weighing in on electrical harnesses

WIRE harness or cable assembly: while the terms are used interchangeably by many, there are fundamental differences between the two. Since individual cables are already protected by their own exterior sheaths, a wire harness presents a simple exterior sheath to bundle the wires and protect them from their environment. A cable assembly, however, provides a more heavy-duty material that not only keeps cable organised in the same way as a wire harness but also shields the bundle from specific environmental factors such as heat, friction, moisture and compression. Which of the two approaches a manufacturer opts for will depend on the operating environment. In either instance, the organised set of wires, terminals and connectors relay information and electric power and therefore play a critical role in connecting key components of end products, such as within cars or washing machines. Each electrical harness or cable assembly bundle must demonstrate two specific qualities: geometrically, they must fit into a specific space – in some cases also

▲ ▲ Cimteq produces a suite of software products for cable manufacturers

iterative approach to cable design allows engineers to model variations of the end product before committing to the cost of production. Similarly, the cost of production can be reduced by spotting non-compliance issues early through Cimteq’s cable manufacturing system CableMES.

serving a larger network of electrical wiring; and electrically, they must protect the cables from damage and adhere to the highest safety levels and standards for the industry in question. Creating the perfect electrical harness or cable assembly begins with a robust design and manufacture of cable and wire − a process that is supported by Cimteq’s suite of software products. CableBuilder’s

Cimteq Ltd www.cimteq.com

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March 2020