Cables are vital to any marine vessel, providing power and data connectivity between different vessel parts. Without cables, vessels would be unable to function. But how are cables made for the marine industry? And what challenges do they face to function properly in a saltwater environment?
Manufacturing marine cables
The first step in manufacturing marine control cables is to select the appropriate materials. The three most common materials used in marine cables are copper, aluminium, and steel. Each of these materials has unique properties that make it better suited for specific applications.
- Copper is the most common material used in marine cables. It is an excellent conductor of electricity and is resistant to corrosion.
- Aluminium is another common material used in marine cables. It is lighter than copper and has higher corrosion resistance.
- Steel is the least common material used in marine cables. It is the strongest of the three materials but also the heaviest and the least conductive.
Once the appropriate materials have been selected, the next step is to determine the size and thickness of the cables. The intended application of the cable determines this. For example, a cable connecting two pieces of electronic equipment will be much thinner than a cable that will power an engine.
After the size and thickness have been determined, the next step is to create the core of the cable. The core is made up of one or more twisted wires. The number of wires in the core depends on the intended application of the cable. A cable used for data transmission will have a more significant number of wires in its core than a cable used for power.
Once the core has been created, it is time to add the insulation. Insulation is a layer of material that surrounds the core and prevents the flow of electricity between the wires. The most common type of insulation used in marine control cables is PVC. PVC is a durable material that can withstand harsh conditions in a saltwater environment.
After the insulation has been added, the next step is to add the jacket. The jacket is a layer of material that surrounds the insulation and protects it from damage. The most common type of jacket used in marine cables is PVC. PVC is a popular choice for jackets because it is solid, has a high resistance to sunlight and saltwater, and is resistant to abrasion.
Finally, the cable is ready to be tested. Testing is done to ensure that the cable meets all the necessary specifications. Once the cable has passed all the tests, it is ready to be used in a marine vessel.
Conclusion
Cables are an essential part of any marine vessel. When choosing a marine-graded cable, selecting one that can meets your application’s specific requirements is crucial. There are many types of cables available in the market, so it is essential to work with a knowledgeable supplier who can help you select the right one for your needs or refer to an instrumentation cable catalogue to find your preferred cable.
Do not hesitate to contact Cable Source if you require high-quality marine cables. To find out more about industrial as well as marine power cables, get in touch with us today!
