How to properly store and maintain cables and wires for longevity and performance
Every day cables and wires power our devices and systems, and taking care of them becomes essential for optimal performance and durability. Maintaining a well-organized cable infrastructure through proper cable reel management ensures longevity and peak performance. In this blog, we will guide you through friendly and effective practices to keep in consideration.
Cable Reel Management
There are some general guidelines to follow when you are working with wire and cable like finding a clean, dry, and temperature-controlled spot to store your cable reels. Be mindful not to stack the reels too high, preventing any undue pressure or deformation. And, give your cable reels regular inspections, ensuring they are in good condition, as well as handle them gently to avoid any kinks or twists.
Also, other recommendations about cable management are to utilize cable trays, racks, and conduits to neatly route and protect your cables. Keep power and data cables separate to minimize interference issues. And, always look for good quality products. Do you know how to identify a low-quality electrical cable?
Cable Labeling
Always go for durable, waterproof labels that will not fade or peel easily. Include essential information like cable type, purpose, destination, and installation date. And in more advanced processes, it will be useful to apply a cable labeling system using a central database or spreadsheet. If you need help with how to read manufacturer labels, take a look at this quick guide.
Cable Repair
In this scenario, it is always better to prevent than repair. Therefore, these are the usual recommendations:
- Regularly inspect cables for cuts, fraying, or exposed wires.
- Always use the right tools, connectors, and insulation materials for repairs. Sometimes you can follow some tutorials and guides about how to work with alternative tools, but always remember to be careful with them.
- Seek professional assistance or follow manufacturer guidelines for complex repairs.
- Test your repaired cables to ensure they meet the necessary standards and specifications.
Cable Recycling
Sustainability is commonly becoming an everyday task for businesses and people in general. That is why now you can search for local recycling centers or facilities that accept cables and wires. Remember to separate different cable types for recycling, such as copper, aluminum, or fiber optic. And remove any non-recyclable components, like plastic or rubber insulation, before recycling.
Efficient cable management can contribute to maintaining the longevity and performance of your cable infrastructure. Read more detailed information about the Best Practices in Reel Management and Data Center Cable Management in our whitepapers section.
