When developing a dynamic cable, there are many important design aspects to consider, including crush resistance and fatigue life.
A dynamic cable is meant to move while it is being used, for example during the process of towing or because of wave motion. Other aspects to take into consideration in the design process are torque balancing the cable and managing the load to elongation ratio.
Behind every great cable is a rigorous testing regime that involves checking and describing a cable’s mechanical performance and its functioning applications.
Why DeRegt tests and analyses
A lot of this verification can be done by analysis, through calculations, computer modelling and/or comparing with similar products, which is usually much cheaper than performing tests.
However, analysis can’t tell you everything you want to know. Cables are constructed by winding the components together in a helix or spiral. The advantage of placing cable components in helices is that they can bend and move without becoming permanently deformed.
Despite that, this complex geometry makes it hard to verify a cable’s real-world behaviour by analysis alone. Factor in normal production-related variations in the cable construction and material tolerances, and relying solely on computer-based analysis becomes impossible – and even dangerous.
This is why we always perform mechanical tests using real-world samples as well as computer analysis on every new cable prototype we develop. Better safe than sorry.
Inhouse testing, construction and design
DeRegt has its own testing facility at its facility at Krimpen aan de Lek, near Rotterdam, the Netherlands. With multiple mechanical test benches on-site, the company can conduct almost all of its tests inhouse.
Seven mechanical tests are run during the qualification phase, which begins once we have completed the design concept and manufactured a prototype. This prototype cable is used to make test samples. Assuming the cable passes with flying colours, the design will be prepared for production and the first product will be built.
The qualification phase usually takes a few weeks, but this can vary depending on the complexity of the cable and application. Each cable is also tested before it leaves the factory.