Cable assemblies for clean technology are used in applications such as wind power, solar energy, LED lighting, and battery systems – just to name a few. Cleantech or greentech, as clean technology is sometimes called, refers to a set of technologies that reduce or eliminate negative environmental impacts, use natural resources in a responsible manner, and provide superior performance at competitive costs.
Many cleantech applications require a custom cable assembly that can support complex systems and meet demanding requirements. By partnering with an experienced provider of custom cable assemblies, cleantech companies can standardize installation processes, reduce cycle times, and ensure quality. Importantly, these manufacturers can also reduce supply chain risk. Let’s look at two examples.
Wind Power
Wind turbines include a nacelle with a gearbox, generator, coupling and brake, electronic equipment, and other components. Cables in the nacelle carry low-voltage control signals, data, and communications signals. As part of a larger cable assembly, these cables must resist oil, retain their flexibility at low temperatures, and meet recognized standards for safety and quality.
By partnering with a supplier of custom cable assemblies who understands wind industry requirements, turbine manufacturers can reach growing global markets. In Europe, clean tech companies need to meet wind power standards prepared by IEC Technical Committee 88. In North America, Underwriters Laboratories (UL) publishes UL 6141, a standard that covers connections in wind turbine power cables.
Solar Energy
Cable assemblies for the solar energy industry include DC cable assemblies with single-ended connectors and a crimp or compression termination interface style. For cleantech companies with customers in European Union countries, compliance with the Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) directive is critical. Cable assemblies for solar power projects may also need to meet standards such as IP67 for waterproof and dustproof components.
As the solar industry continues to grow, supply chain strength becomes increasingly important. According to MH&L magazine, over 60% of cleantech companies experienced a supply chain disruption between 2012 and 2015. Nearly 85% of these cases had a material impact on the bottom line. The problems that cleantech companies faced ranged from brand damage and reduced revenue to delayed deliveries and erosion of profit margins.
Find Cable Assemblies for Clean Technology
SHINE manufacturers cable assemblies for clean technology applications such as wind turbines, photovoltaic panels, LED lighting systems, and reserve batteries. Our manufacturing center in Adams, Massachusetts is registered to the ISO 9001:2008 standard and has a UL Recognized Registration. We manufacture wire and cable products that meet UL standards and comply with the EU’s RoHS directive, too. For more information, please contact us.