Where are antimicrobial cables used?

A number of manufacturers make antimicrobial cables, which are used primarily in food, beverage and medical manufacturing and packaging applications to prevent bacterial growth.

Cables used in these applications not only require a tough, clean jacket, but must also be able to withstand harsh chemicals, a range of extreme temperatures, and abrasion and crushing. They almost always meet UL, CSA and CE requirements and most often are oxygen, UV and radiation resistant for use in imaging machines and other tough environments.

As seen in the video above from our archives, Helukabel’s Nanoflex power and control antimicrobial cables prevents cable degradation over time, giving users a longer-lasting cable that can be cleaned safely in applications where harsh chemicals may be used regularly.

Leoni, too, makes a line designed specifically to eliminate infectious microorganisms. Testing has verified that the company’s acid-based treatment can destroy up to 99.99% of bacteria. It basically uses a protective acid shield that prevents the cells from growing and separating.

Another antimicrobial cable design comes from TPC Wire & Cable, which focused its Defender line more for food and beverage applications, where bacteria, mold and fungal growth must be controlled. It also eliminates 99% of these specimens while also using a silver ion-based additive to ensure long life while also resisting corrosive chemical washdown.

Similarly, Axon Cable also uses a silver ion micro-flux technology on its Nosofree antibacterial cable assemblies to prevent the growth of microbes. These designs are aimed specifically at the medical market, offering easy sterilization, biocompatibility, customization including miniature designs, and flexibility.