Flexible flat cables for food applications

A process of encapsulating individual components in a shock-absorbing silicone jacket renders the cables unaffected by repeated exposure to severe vibration, wash-down processes, cold temperatures (–65°C), UV light, autoclave, radiation, physical stress, cooking oils, animal fats, cleaning agents, sanitizers, heat (260°C), steam, water, high pressure sprays, moist environments, salt, microbial growth, bacteria, and many chemicals. These features make the hygienic cables an alternative to wire harnesses, bulky round cables, and particulate-generating cable tracks. Halogen-free flat cables use components including power conductors, feedback pairs, shielded control wires, video conductors, FlexRail self-supporting flat cable system, and StripMount fastening strip, all combined in a single condensed cable design, precisely controlling the inner component spacing, jacket thickness, and overall cable shape.  Custom and standard cables are available in continuous lengths, cut to order, or as assemblies, complete with connectors.Cicoil Corp., 24960 Avenue Tibbitts, Valencia, CA 91355, (661) 295-1295, www.cicoil.com