The cable and wire industry is forecast to grow substantially over the next few years; see the details in our article that touches on the wire harness market forecast. Keeping pace with that growth is undoubtedly a significant challenge facing the industry today. There are also several more. Here are the key cabling industry challenges we see and how we’re addressing them here at Cables Unlimited.
Growing Demand for Custom Cable Assemblies
Telecommunications network expansion is driving increased demand for 5G cabling, as well as 6G cabling. The same is true for aerospace cables as technology advances drive more and more need for cabling. For example, the Boeing 737 has approximately 40 miles of wires and cables, the 767 has 100 miles, and the 787 uses 310 miles. Of course, other issues can arise, such as aircraft manufacturing shutdowns in response to safety issues. We work closely with our customers to keep ahead of their needs and respond to any changes in requirements.
Supply Chain Challenges
Amid war and COVID shutdowns, 2022 is shaping up to be a very challenging year for the global supply chain. We spoke about this in USA-Based Cable Manufacturing Helps Overcome Supply Chain Issues. Our solutions have focused on onshoring, buying local whenever possible, pre-buying critical parts, building strong supplier relationships, and using state-of-the-art data systems to keep on top of every aspect of the supply chain.
Shipping Cost Increases
Related to supply chain issues are the increasing shipping costs. That’s partly due to the growing demand for shipping container space amidst severe Trans-Pacific shipping restrictions. However, even in the USA, it’s due to the increasing cost of fuel and truck shortages. All that brings us to the benefits of manufacturing in the USA once more. Our solution is to buy locally whenever possible to help reduce both shipping costs and time.
Raw Material Shortages
When we think about raw materials for cables and wires, we typically consider copper and aluminum. But just as important are plastic insulation materials. All three are in high demand but with considerable disruptions, including rising costs and shortages of all petroleum-based products. We work very closely with our suppliers to keep on top of both our current and anticipated requirements. We also pre-purchase materials to avoid untimely shutdowns.
Fiber Optic Cable Shortages
We mentioned the growing demand for fiber optic cable as 5G and 6G networks grow. That’s happening worldwide, resulting in shortages as fiber optic manufacturers attempt to keep up. To address this challenge, we’re a Corning Gold House Partner. That relationship provides us with many benefits, including increased access to their products with same-day to 72-hour turnaround.
Environmental Concerns
We build Mil-Spec cables for every conceivable environmental hazard. But within the industry, there are also environmental issues that must be addressed. These include hazardous materials, waste handling, and worker exposure to toxic substances. Cables Unlimited adheres to all environmental regulations, and we make sure we maintain rigorous compliance in all we do.
Technology Advances
Keeping up with relentless technical advancement and breakthroughs requires being close to our customers and the industries we serve. We keep up with these advances by meeting changing customer requirements. We also monitor industry changes and attend conferences to keep right at the leading edge.
Skilled Worker Shortages
Cables Unlimited has a strong culture that values employees. That starts with solid teamwork, decision-making at the lowest level possible, and building a collaborative culture. We find that this type of culture drives everything in our organization. By valuing and empowering employees, we not only keep them on the payroll, but we attract others. That includes engineers, quality control managers, assembly line workers, and everyone within our organization.
We Can Help With Your Cabling Industry Challenges
Our name is Cables Unlimited for a reason. Whatever cable assembly or wire harness you need, we can provide it.
If your requirements are already specified and ready for a quote in your current projects, we are prepared to meet your deadlines and pricing targets. Our extensive in-house services and advanced manufacturing capabilities are in place to meet your requirements.
But Cables-Unlimited offers much more than state-of-the-art manufacturing – our dedicated team is also known for going to great lengths to meet the needs of our customers, including working round-the-clock to meet tight turnaround time requirements.
Our sales representatives are standing by to assist you with product questions and quotes Monday – Friday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm Eastern. You can also send us an email or complete our contact form, and we’ll get right back to you.
