Wire Harness Vs Cable Assembly - What's the Difference?

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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. 

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