Suggestions for flexible / rugged data cable?

Mar 18, 2006 3 Replies

I am trying to source a replacement data cable for an application currently causing us problems.



The application requires a multicore cable carrying signals from a trackball, volt free pushbuttons and a potentiometer into a control system. The current cable is a 'standard' PVC data cable, 20 core screened, approximately 9mm OD (I need to check if all 20 cores are required - I think a 14 core cable or less would be suitable).



The problem is that the controls are on the arm of a suspension mounted seat on a small boat operating in extreme conditions, so even with optimal routing there are locations where the cable will be frequently bent from 90 degrees to straight and back again, and a lot of potential points where chafing can occur.



I'm currently looking at Lapp Cables Olflex robotics range, but can anyone suggest alternatives that are:



Zero halogen Good minimum bend radius Very flexible with minimum risk of work hardening Good resistance to mechanical stress / chafing Small OD (I believe the current cable has 0.4mm cores, should be able to decrease to 0.22 mm cores)



Thanks



Chris


Go and take your requirements to Raychem . They do all kinds of specialised cables.

"Chris" wrote in message news:441c05a4$0$70284$ snipped-for-privacy@ptn-nntp-reader03.plus.net...

I have used the Olflex cables on a couple of crane installations and found them to be very good with a very tough sheath. If you can't find anything cheaper, personally I would recommend using them.

Cameron:-)

Chris wrote in news:441c05a4$0$70284$ snipped-for-privacy@ptn-nntp-reader03.plus.net:

Check into Turck 'Flexlife' cables. Using them in several 6-axis robotics applications with excellent results.

Join the Discussion

Have something to add? Share your thoughts — no account required.

Didn't find your answer?

Ask the community — no account required