Bergen’s experience helps it meet design challenges

Commercial applications often call for the cross-disciplinary application of cable, conduit and fittings design expertise, along with knowledge of metallurgy, plastics and manufacturing engineering. They also require the physical resources to harness that knowledge in meeting or exceeding product specifications, while satisfying delivery requirements. Bergen Cable Technology delivers in all of these areas.

The company's experience with non-rotating military specification cable — Bergen’s focus since it was launched in 1941 — has helped the company meet design challenges for everything from easy maintenance lighting fixtures to physical fitness products.

One application example is X-ray and MRI equipment. Fatigue failure of cable used in this equipment is as much a human safety factor as a product liability issue. Bergen transferred its experience with military specification cable to dramatically reduce liability concerns for some of the world's leading medical device and component manufacturers with minimal increase in manufacturing cost.

In another example, Bergen engineers designed miniature fittings that met the space constraints of a surgical suture gun, yet exceeded the reliability requirements for pull-off load. 

Commercial cable is often referred to as “aircraft grade”, but it is not the same as aircraft control cable manufactured under MIL-DTL-83420. Some applications do not require the high fatigue resistance of MIL-DTL-83420 aircraft control cable. These can utilize a commercial grade of cable and fittings that may be more cost effective.

When specifying or ordering cable, it is important to distinguish between military specification and commercial grade cable, which is not subject to the same stringent manufacturing and performance test procedures as true military specification cable. 

The type and size of cable, as well as the selection of the proper end fittings, are determined by the application. Once a design is selected, customers should specify the length of the assembly, pull-off requirements and working load, which should not exceed 20 per cent of minimum cable breaking strength.

For more information on commercial control cables, or for design assistance, contact Bergen Cable. 

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