What Is a Strain Relief?
Strain reliefs are components designed to secure and protect cables at their connection points. They play a crucial role in preventing stress and deformation caused by abrupt bending, especially at the bases of cable assemblies like I/O connector cable assemblies. Strain relief solutions include plates, frame bridges, bow clamps, and cord grips, often made from materials like plastic or metal. A common method involves securing cables with cable ties to strain relief plates for a more cable-friendly approach.
Uses of Strain Reliefs
Strain relief is vital for effective cable management in various applications. It provides protection for electrical cables, wires, conduits, and pneumatic hoses by eliminating mechanical stress at connection points. This mechanism extends the lifespan of cables used in cable drag chains and conduits and prevents accidental plug or connector detachment. While the ideal distance from the connection point to strain relief is typically around 1 meter, the exact positioning depends on the specific application. It is also used in cable carriers or drag chains where cables are subjected to continuous stress.
Principles of Strain Reliefs
A strain relief attached to the rear end of a connector holds the cable firmly, safeguarding the contacts and cable connections from harmful forces. Regularly securing the cable with strain relief helps prevent cable breakage at a minimal cost. It often features a flexible, bellows-like structure to effectively alleviate longitudinal bending stress.
Types of Strain Relief
There are several types of strain relief, each suited for different applications:
- Strain Relief Plates: These simple plates are used to fix cables with ties, featuring notched sections to organize both strain relief and cables.
- Frame Bridges: These can be inserted into brackets of cable drag chains, securing cables with ties.
- Bow Clamps: Ideal for fixing multiple cables vertically, these clamps function as strain relief and are protected from corrosion.
- Strain Relief Grommets: Mounted on equipment bodies, they prevent cords from easily slipping out and absorb forces acting on the cords.
How to Choose a Strain Relief
When selecting strain reliefs, consider the application requirements. Strain relief plates are ideal for fixing multiple cables in industrial settings due to their high implementation density and cost-effectiveness. They can accommodate cables of various diameters, making them flexible for parallel installation of multiple cables with varying diameters. In contrast to typical cable clamps, strain relief plates provide greater versatility and efficiency, particularly when controlling wires of different diameters.