What is the difference between wire harness assemblies and cable harness assemblies?

What is the difference between wire harness assemblies and cable harness assemblies?

Wiring harnesses and cables are both responsible for supplying power to electrical components and providing signal transmission. They organize cables and wires to optimize the space and offer them some form of protection against environmental conditions. Although their functions are similar, these components are not interchangeable. Each one has its unique advantages and the best application. At SAISONIC, our technical team can help you find the right electrical connection components for your project.

Just as these assembly types are two different products, so are wires and cables. A wire is a conductive metal, such as copper or aluminium, which can transmit electricity and information. Therefore, a cable is composed of multiple wires, which are usually joined together by braiding or bonding.

The key difference between the two components lies in how to protect cables or wires from chemicals, moisture, dust, extreme temperatures and friction.

Wiring harness (Click to learn more about the details）

Wire harnesses work well as organizers of cable systems, especially when it comes to smaller groups of internal wires or cables to enhance connectivity. However, although these components do include a protective sleeve to prevent short circuits during wiring, it is far less robust than the cable assembly cover. On the contrary, the cables and wires grouped in the wiring harness usually already have an outer covering for protection. Although the assembly does indeed put them together in a single harness, their sheaths are still easily visible on individual cables. Furthermore, these individual sub-components allow for highly complex projects and can be adapted to many unique uses. The simple thermosetting material or thermoplastic coating of this wiring harness helps protect the wires and cables from the influence of indoor application environments.

Cable assembly(Click to learn more about the details）

Cable assemblies bind wires or cables together for organizing and efficient operation of electrical systems. Among the two types of components, cable assemblies are the most suitable for outdoor applications. They are superior in withstanding environmental pressure because they are covered with durable materials such as vinyl, thermoplastic rubber or shrink wrap thermoplastic. This sturdy insulating sheath can protect the internal cable from high temperatures, dirt or other contaminants, bad weather, compression force, wear and tear, etc.

Wiring harness and Cable assembly advantages

Wiring harnesses and cable assemblies enhance organizational and spatial efficiency. They also enhance operational safety by preventing fires and taming loose wires. However, each assembly type has its own advantages. The casing of the sheathed cable assembly is durable and sturdy, capable of withstanding a wider range of environmental conditions, thus enabling more functional applications. Furthermore, since the internally bundled wires are all contained within a single outer sheath, this makes it easier to thread them in a smaller area.Wire harnesses are ideal because they are easy to install and simplify maintenance, thereby reducing labor time. It offers less protection and the wiring harness works best indoors. This feature, combined with their simple design, usually makes them cheaper. In addition, the outer covering can still prevent moisture or chemical solvents.

SAISONIC's cable and wiring harness solutions

We are proud to offer high-quality and cost-effective wire harnesses and cable assemblies that meet the industry requirements of the most demanding electrical applications. Contact us to learn more about wire harnesses and cable assemblies.