The Top 3 Flex Cable Installation Mistakes

There are three mistakes that people commonly make when installing flex cables in cable tracks, oftentimes which leads to an application’s premature failure. If you learn to avoid these simple mistakes, your cable will last much longer and have a higher quality of performance over the course of its life.

Common Mistake #1 — Using wire ties that restrict movement

Don’t use wire ties in your application where they can possibly limit the cable’s movements. When the conductor of a wire is unable to move freely, the pressure it creates can cause stretching and kinks that may damage or break the conductor.

Common Mistake #2 — Pulling the cable too tight

When installing your flex cable, make sure to leave the cable some slack. Since cable tracks move, the cable must have some room to move with it. If the flex cable is pulled too tight, the track’s movement will cause unnecessary mechanical stress which can stretch, crack, and damage the cable’s conductor, insulation, or jacket.

Common Mistake #3 — Twisting the cable

It is important to make sure that the flex cable is installed flat in the tray. Twists can distort the movement of the cable, which can cause abrasion when rubbed against the side of the tray or disrupt the movement of other nearby cables.

These are simple mistakes, but they can have major consequences. Cable failure can cost a lot of time and money. Following our tips while installing your flex cable correctly while prolonging its longevity in your next cable tray, flexing, or robotic application!

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