Insights

As the world has grown more and more dependent upon electricity, cables have been used in different environments and weather conditions. Such cables are instrumental in helping us transmit electric power, data, and pertinent communication signals across long distances of land separated by water. However, it is important to ensure that electric cables used in marine environments do not interfere with boats and ships sailing across open waters. Marine cables are an innovation that allows us to tap into and transport electricity without disrupting regular naval activities. Here is a definitive guide that explains how marine cables function and what are different types available on the market.  

What are Marine Electric Cables? 

Marine electric cables are one of the best ways to safely and efficiently transmit electricity and other data across open waters without hampering the regular functioning of boats, ships, and marine vessels on the surface. Such cables have been specialised to enable power distribution without causing electrical hazards in a delicate marine ecosystem.  

Seas, especially, are full of saltwater which can prevent regular electric cables from working properly. While water can cause electrical sparks, short circuits, and electrocution, salt content can corrode coverings till the wires are exposed and prone to further rusting. Marine cables are a solution that helps protect wires from both water and salt.  

Why does selecting the right type of marine cable matter? 

For marine cables to function correctly, it is important to choose the right option. Opting for the wrong kind of marine cable can cause more problems than anticipated. Inefficient supply of power is the primary consequence of choosing the wrong kind of marine cable. The wrong type of marine cable can also be the leading cause of fuel shortages, risks of failures, and potential safety hazards. It is crucial to choose the right kind of marine cable since it serves as the backbone for navigation systems used by most boats and ships to reach their destinations safely.  

What are the different types of marine cables? 

Today, you can find different kinds of marine cables, each designed to carry out specific functions, including power control, instrumentation, and communication. The differences between the cables and the purposes they serve come into play while designing an appropriate marine electrical system. Here are the different types of marine cables in Dubai’s seas: 

Heavy-Duty Cables: Power cables deemed heavy-duty usually carry high voltage from generators to different destinations. Such cables can help distribute power across the entirety of a ship or boat. The wires are coated with thick outer protection to prevent the harsh seas from causing damage. Heavy-duty cables are most likely used to power turbines, rudders, and heavy-duty machinery on a vessel.  

Control Cables: In comparison, control cables are low-voltage and help manage mechanical operations. Marine manufacturers can decide whether they want to shield such cables or not depending on how they will be used. Normally, such marine cables are used to handle steering systems and help with engine control aboard shop vessels. Since such cables are more flexible, they can be bent and moved to allow for easier operation.  

Communication Cables: Communication cables, as the name suggests, are used to send and receive signals and information between a vessel and main control. Such cables are also used to maintain navigation and GPS on sea vessels. Communication cables are usually twisted to mitigate electromagnetic interference and can transmit analog and digital signals.  

Instrument Cables: Instrument cables are specially designed to handle low-level analog signals that are emitted from sensors across the ship or boat. They help keep track of metrics like temperature, pressure, level, and the general environment. Such metrics are essential in helping a vessel stay on its course regardless of weather conditions, especially when the waters are volatile. However, due to their function, such cables are heavily exposed to the environment and need to be protected from the elements.  

At Electric Way, we specialise in providing our clientele with the finest marine cables in Dubai. Over the years, we have built a credible reputation for offering smart automation systems, lighting control, electrical accessories and different kinds of marine cables in Dubai and the UAE region. Our expertise and experience have allowed us to create an inventory of different kinds of marine cables, subsea cables, and other electrical systems suitable for boats and ships. We make sure to provide custom electrical products and solutions that support the creation of systems that align with our clients’ specific goals and power requirements.  

Choose one of the best marine cable suppliers in Dubai, choose Electric Way.