Laser wire stripping was developed by NASA in the 1970s as part of the Space Shuttle program. The technology made it possible to use smaller sized wires with thinner insulations, without risk of the damage that can be caused by traditional mechanical wire stripping methods.
Without a sculptor, a piece of clay or marble can never reach its full artistic potential. Rotary, V and die blades in automatic cutting and stripping (CAS) machines serve a similar role to help conductive wire and cable achieve its full electric potential as part of a harness.
Blades might not get much attention, but they’re crucial for quality wire stripping and cutting. The challenge is selecting the right blade for each wire.
Helping automakers is not a new challenge for Jabil Inc. In fact, the company has been providing quality-control systems, design services and electronics manufacturing to them for nearly 35 years.
There’s an ongoing push toward lighter, smaller, thinner and more environmentally friendly wire and cable insulation in the auto industry. This affects cutting, stripping, crimping and other wire processing applications.
Whether it's aluminum or copper wire, thick or thin cable, insulation is essential. Without it, heat would build up and cause shorts, sparks and flames.
Two leading suppliers of wire harness assembly equipment are celebrating their centennials at the National Electrical Wire Processing Technology Expo in Milwaukee this week.