Cables maintenance
For many companies, July and August are months when production slows down or completely stops. This is the perfect time to perform thorough inspections and maintenance work on equipment without disrupting normal operations. Among the components often overlooked but essential for safety and efficiency are electrical cables, whether fixed or flexible.
Why Check Cables During the Summer Shutdown
Cables are the nervous system of any plant: they transmit energy and data, ensuring continuous operation. Over time, they can deteriorate due to:
- Mechanical wear
- Exposure to heat, humidity, and chemicals
- Stress from bending and vibrations in automated lines
Regular inspections reduce the risk of sudden failures and unplanned downtime, improving operator safety.
The checklist cables maintenance
- Visual inspection: Check for abrasions, cracks, crushing, or discoloration of the sheath.
- Connection check: Ensure terminals, joints, and connectors are tight and free of oxidation.
- Conduit inspection: Make sure cable trays and ducts are clear of obstructions and do not put stress on cables.
- Electrical testing: Measure continuity, insulation resistance, and conductor integrity.
- Area cleaning: Remove dust, oil, and debris that may affect cable performance.
When to replace cables
There are situations where replacing cables is the safest and most efficient choice:
- Visible damage such as cuts, crushing, sheath breaks, or exposed conductors
- Signs of aging: unusual stiffness, cracks, or loss of sheath flexibility
- Compromised performance: voltage drops, overheating, or recurring malfunctions
- Plant upgrades: new machines or systems requiring cables with higher technical specifications
- Safety regulations: compliance with updated standards to ensure plant safety
In these cases, it is crucial to use certified, high-quality cables. Check out the SADA CAVI catalog to choose the best solution for your needs.
An investment in continuity
Summer cables maintenance is an opportunity for preventive action, avoiding unexpected and costly downtime. Taking care of cables means ensuring efficiency, safety, and reliability for the entire plant, ultimately protecting long-term business productivity.
