Wire Insulation Evolution: Safety and Protecting Electrical Wires
Wire Insulation
Wires can be found basically everywhere. This wouldn’t be possible without wire insulation to keep us all safe.
Any electrical product that demands an electrical current typically requires a wire (or cable).
Even when you hear something is “wireless”. Wires power the device sending a signal.
Furthermore, electricity traveling through wires bring each of us tremendous joy and pleasure.
Just think of all of the things we use daily:
- Computers
- The internet
- Music
- Social media
- Communication
- Vehicles and other transportation
- Appliances
- As well as many others
Actually, can you imagine surviving a single day without electricity?
Back in the day, use of electricity was not as common as it is today. However, that was due to, electricity not traveling as safely through the wires.
Today, electricity travels safe and sound through wires that are protected with wire insulation.
Thanks goes to engineering pioneers from a century ago during a period of explosive growth for electrical products.
This growth drastically increased the use of wires carrying electricity. Unfortunately, uncovered or exposed wires caused extremely dangerous situations.
Exposed wires led to electrical shocks and fires.
However, there was a brilliant solution to protect and strengthen wires. Therefore, the addition of a non-conductive cover was introduced.
Applying Wire Insulation provided added protection to the wires.
This insulation greatly reduced potential hazards and threats.
Wire Evolution
Below includes a cool video showing porcelain insulators. According to the Thomas Edison Tech Center, these were in use in the 19th Century.
Electrical products required a solution to protect wires. This was do to, an increase in demand. However, the solution needed to be affordable and efficient.
Also, wire harness assembly became a necessity. This was due to the early growth in popularity of wires.
It is efficient to harness loose wires as opposed to allowing a free for all.
In particular, during during the early 20th century when electrical consumer goods, as well as, the auto industry exploded.
Insulation serves as a non-conductor. Furthermore, this non-conductor separates and protects wires within a harness.
Especially since, it is a nasty world out there. There are many elements that can harm bare wires.
To save the day, an insulated jacket protects each wire from detrimental elements. This jacket keeps the wire cozy and safe.
Insulation protects the wire from water and moisture. Also, it protects the wire from extreme heat or cold.
Thankfully, wire insulation today is much more efficient. It is also effective and affordable.
For example, thermoplastic high heat-resistant nylon coated wire (THHN wire) is low in cost. It is also, light weight. This is in addition to it being an extremely popular wire insulation option.
Helpful Links
To learn more about Ground Straps and the Wire Harness Assembly process, please click on the links below:
- Wire Harness Manufacturing Terms, Tools, and Tips of the Trade
- Build Your Business Tips: Selecting a Wire Harness Manufacturer
- Ground Straps: What Are They And What Are They Used For?
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