Cable assemblies are also used in maritime and subsea environments. These cables must meet special requirements in order to withstand the extreme conditions under water, such as high pressure, salt water, strong currents and possibly aggressive chemicals.
The assembly of underwater cables begins with the selection of suitable materials. Insulation is crucial as it must prevent water ingress and maintain electrical conductivity. Typically, materials such as polyethylene, rubber or special plastics are used for this purpose. The cables can also be reinforced with metal braids or shields to provide additional mechanical protection and EMI/RFI shielding. In many cases, these cables are fitted with special connectors that are waterproof and ensure a reliable connection underwater.
The testing process for underwater cables is rigorous. They are tested for watertightness, electrical performance, material resistance and mechanical strength. This can include tests in pressure chambers, salt spray and immersion tests to ensure that the cables remain functional even under the harshest conditions.
Applications for these specially assembled cables can be found in many sectors, including the offshore oil and gas industry, underwater research facilities, marine biology and deep sea technology.