Industrial Environment Cabling

Key considerations for industrial network cabling include:

• Electromagnetic Interference (EMI):
  • EMI from motors, drives, transformers, and inside control panels can disrupt network communications.
  • Shielded copper cabling systems (STP/FTP) help reduce the effects of EMI.
  • Fiber optic cabling is immune to EMI and is often the preferred solution in electrically noisy environments.

• Temperature and Environmental Conditions:
  • Industrial cables must be rated to withstand very high or low temperatures.
  • Cable jackets should be selected to resist exposure to oils, chemicals, moisture, and ultraviolet (UV) radiation when applicable.

• Washdown and Sanitary Areas:
  • Process facilities, food and beverage plants, and pharmaceutical environments often require frequent washdowns using cleaning chemicals.
  • Cabling should be protected from direct chemical exposure.
  • Stainless steel faceplates, sealed enclosures, and covered Ethernet ports are commonly used to protect network connections.

• Mechanical Stress and Vibration:
  • Continuous vibration from machinery can damage standard commercial cabling.
  • Industrial-rated cables, connectors, and mounting hardware should be used to withstand movement and mechanical stress.