subject: Benefits Of Using Wiring Harnesses [print this page] Wiring harnesses, also known as cable harnesses and a variety of other names, are a collection of electrical wires transmitting signals or energy that are combined into one single unit through the use of cable ties, clamps, sleeves, conduit and other connective methods. Wiring harnesses can save space while ensuring that the wiring is properly protected and still able to effectively transmit information or energy as required. Wiring harnesses are found in a large variety of different products and are used in a host of different settings and applications.
Optimising The Use Of Space
Space is fully optimised when using wiring harnesses. Many metres or even kilometres of wiring can be collected and bound into a single wiring harness which can then be housed within a considerably smaller space than it would otherwise require. Without the use of wiring harnesses many devices and electrical items would need to be considerably larger than they currently are in order to offer adequate housing for all the wiring.
Safety
Wiring harnesses are also considered safer. Shorts are effectively minimised because the effects of abrasion, moisture, and vibration is greatly reduced. The harness itself acts as a protective barrier so that if any damage is likely to be done to the wires it would instead be done to the harness leaving the wires completely in tact and undamaged. The harness can also be made flame retardant which further protects the wiring from fire and heat.
Ease Of Installation
The wires are combined into a single harness which means that the installer is not required to install dozens or hundreds of wires. This can cut down on mistakes made when fitting new equipment or during the manufacturing process. It also reduces the time needed in fitting and means that some fitting can be done by the consumer.
Replacement And Maintenance Costs
If a device fails then a whole harness can be replaced, negating the need to test and potentially replace each individual wire. This is not only more convenient but can improve costs for both the product manufacturer and for the end user. Whether wiring harnesses are used for car stereos or in aviation, they provide benefit and advantage over working with individual wires.
