Cable support: Essential elements for in-car technology.
Vehicles are pioneers in technology, and much of their efficient operation is due to proper cable management.
The advantages of cable trays are numerous:
- Organisation: They keep cables tidy and prevent clutter inside the vehicle, making maintenance easier.
- Safety: They prevent chafing and wear on cables, reducing the risk of short circuits or electrical faults.
- Ease of installation: Many brackets are designed for quick and easy installation, saving time during vehicle manufacture or repair.
- Aesthetics: A well-designed cable management system enhances the overall appearance of the vehicle.
Key applications for cable management bracke
ts in vehicles.
- Electrical systems: From audio system wiring to interior and exterior lighting, brackets ensure everything is in place.
- Electric vehicles: In electric vehicles, the amount of wiring increases significantly due to the need to manage the battery, electric motor and charging systems. This makes cable holders even more essential to organise and protect this additional wiring, ensuring safe and efficient operation.
- Navigation and connectivity systems: With the increasing integration of technology in vehicles, brackets are essential for managing cables related to GPS, USB chargers and more.
Choice of Materials: The basis of durable wire management brackets.
Plastic: This is the most commonly used material due to its lightweight, corrosion resistance and low cost.
- Polypropylene (PP): This is a lightweight and moisture resistant material. It is often used for its durability and chemical resistance.
- Polyethylene (PE): This plastic is known for its flexibility and impact resistance. It is used in applications where greater elasticity is required.
- Nylon (Polyamide): Nylon is very strong and has excellent wear resistance. It is ideal for substrates that will be exposed to mechanical stresses.
- ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene): This material is known for its good impact resistance and its ability to be moulded into various shapes.
- POM (Polyoxymethylene or Acetal): This material is very durable and has low friction properties, making it suitable for applications where cables can move.
Rubber or Silicone: These materials are used to create vibration-absorbing mounts, protecting wires from damage due to friction and movement.
- Silicone: Silicone is highly resistant to extreme temperatures and weathering. It is ideal for applications in environments where flexibility and chemical resistance are required.
- EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Diene Monomer): This elastomer has excellent resistance to weathering, ozone and extreme temperatures. It is commonly used in automotive applications due to its durability.
- TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane): TPU combines the properties of plastic and elastomer, offering high abrasion and tear resistance as well as good flexibility.
As vehicles evolve towards electrical models with an increased number of wires, the role of cable trays becomes even more critical.
By choosing suitable materials and understanding their benefits and applications, optimum vehicle performance can be ensured.
Proper wire management not only improves the functionality but also the safety and aesthetics of the car.
In addition to this, we are IATF 16949 certified, ensuring that our processes meet the most stringent requirements of the automotive market.
At OSF, we analyse each project to recommend the most appropriate materials and technology for our customers' needs.
For more information, please contact us.