Shipboard cables are essential to a marine vessel’s performance, especially in its safety and efficiency while out on the water. They provide several functions, including communications, power transmission, automation, and instrumentation. When your ship is ill-equipped with low-quality or damaged cables, you risk facing several challenges and complications during your voyage.
Ensure that the products you acquire for your marine vessel meet your needs. The following is a comprehensive guide on what to look for when purchasing shipboard cables.
Different Types of Shipboard Cables
Shipboard cables can be divided into two main categories: power and control cables and instrumentation cables.
Power and Control Cables
As the name suggests, these cables are used for electric and control circuits. You can find these cables in ships and offshore platforms such as oil rigs.
Instrumentation Cables
This cable is used to make sure the ship’s systems are performing effectively and efficiently. It is essential in communication channels as it prevents cross-talk, helping the crew avoid unwanted signals.
What to Look for in Shipboard Cables
Regardless of the type of shipboard cables you’re looking for, some elements are necessary for optimal performance. When looking for cables, consider the following to make sure you get your money’s worth.
Size
Marine shipboard cables are made with more copper wiring than other cables. This gives it better carrying capacity, making it easier for the cable to accommodate large amounts of electrical current. As a result, shipboard cables tend to be larger than other cables. When choosing your cable, consider where it will be used and how much space it has to avoid loose or tight-fitting cables.
Insulation
Since shipboard cables are used in marine vessels and offshore platforms, they are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions in these environments. These cables are insulated with a compound called “low-smoke zero-halogen,” which protects its wiring from humidity, oil, gas, and fire. Look for this type of installation when you’re shopping to ensure that your cables are still functional even in emergencies.
Flexibility
The same low-smoke zero-halogen used to insulate shipboard cables give them their flexibility. It allows for easier handling, decreasing installation time significantly. This flexibility doesn’t impede the cables’ durability and strength.
Durability
A common problem in older cable designs is corrosion. The combination of saltwater and harsh weather quickly strips these cables of their outer layers, exposing the wires underneath to the elements. Modern shipboard cables are made with corrosion-resistant materials to protect them from the elements. Ask your supplier if they are also treated for high temperatures and wet environments to determine their durability.
High-Quality Shipboard Cables from Cable Source
Make sure you’re getting the best tools and materials for your ship. Protect yourself and the crew while ensuring the performance of your different systems.
Cable Source is one of the leading suppliers and stockists in Singapore. We pride ourselves on our selection of wires and cables from the world’s leading manufacturers. We understand our clients’ needs, and we help them make the right choices for their ships and offshore platforms.
Contact us today to learn more.
