In this modern world, you would be hard pressed to go far without finding a cable or two. Whether it is aerospace manufacturing, an office space, a new construction, or a home office, cabling is used to keep the latest and greatest in technology connected.
Cable organization is an important part of that setup. Using cable markers and proper cable labeling, finding the right cable can become easier than ever. No matter your setup, you need to find the right cable and wire label. Here are a few different kinds that can help to make your search easier.
Why the Right Label Matters
On the surface, it might seem like cable labeling is quite simple. And while it isn’t necessarily reinventing the wheel, proper labeling makes any technological setup a lot easier to manage. That comes down to having the right type of cable labeling to suit your setup.
As it stands, there are three main types of cable and wire labels. You will come across wire/cable tags, heat-shrink labels, and self-laminating wire labels. Here are why each can make a great addition to your cable management system.
Wire/Cable Tags
Cable labels or tags are generally used for larger cables, wire bundles, hoses, and conduit. This option comes in a plethora of sizes, making them ideal for a range beginning at ¼” and going all the way up to 3” in diameter. These tags are printed using a thermal transfer label printer and is usually restricted to white instead of a variety of colors.
This is arguably the most affordable solution when it comes to labeling cables and wires. They make for a great alternative to stainless steel or lamicoid cable tags, which require machine engraving and can be quite expensive. There are even flame retardant cable tags that are meant for special applications, particularly avionics. These are simple to use, a cheap alternative, and are quickly applied. While there could definitely be a beneficial use of multi-color labels, they aren’t necessarily a must-have. Choose cable or wire tags if you want to find a solution that is meant for tighter budgets.
Heat-Shrink Labels
You may hear these referred to as wire labels, core markers, heat-shrink tubing, or heat-shrink sleeves. Whatever the case may be, heat-shrink labels can play an important role in proper cable management and marking. This is also the most common type of wire identification you will find when it comes to electrical panels.
These are applied and eventually fit snugly to the cable. There is minimal movement, so the labels won’t move about very much. They are heat-shrunk to fit properly and can be used in panels ranging from small electrical panels on vehicles to larger, energy plant-sized electrical panels. You can even find a variety of colors to make the identification of cables even easier.
Self-Laminating Labels
If you have a cable management system where you can’t get the sleeve over the wire, self-laminated labels are the best option. The shortened term for these is “self lams” and they are typically found in “heavy industry”. That’s mostly because they are used to wrap around the wire, offering a clear protective layer in the process.
Most of the self-laminating wires you find will be made of either vinyl or clear polyester. There is a small white area where information can be printed as well. This type of label can rotate and even repeat labels and can wrap safely around the wire. Data can be printed multiple times on a single label, making it easily readable from just about every angle.
