For almost three decades, American Precision Assemblers (APA) has served industry as a manufacturer and supplier of high-quality custom cable assemblies, wire harnesses, and electronic sub-assemblies. Having started business in a small leased facility, we have since expanded our operations—both in regard to production volume and customer base—to include plants in Hampshire, Hermosillo, and Duluth.
In every project we take on, our expert team aims to provides customers with the highest quality products and services. By offering a comprehensive selection of custom wire harness fabrication services, we ensure that all of their harness needs are fully met.
What Is a Wire Harness?
A wire harness—also referred to as a wiring harness—is a collection of electrical wires enclosed within an exterior sheath. The sheath—typically made from lightweight thermoplastic or thermoset material—facilitates the organization of the wires contained within and protects them from minor damage due to environmental factors.
Wire harnesses find use in the electrical and electronic devices of a diverse set of industries, including in the following:
- Aerospace
- Agricultural
- Aircraft
- Food and beverage
- Industrial equipment
- Industrial vehicle
- Medical
- Military
- Printing
- Safety and security
- Wire
For these industries, among others, they serve as a low-cost solution for bundling and organizing a large number of wires and cables. Their design allows industry professionals to install all of the wires necessary for an application at a much faster rate.
What’s the Difference Between a Wire Harness and a Cable Assembly?
Many industry professionals—even those who regularly work with them—use the terms “wire harness” and “cable assembly” interchangeably. While wire harnesses and cable assemblies share some characteristics in regard to design and function, the differences between them ultimately result in distinctly different use cases.
Both wire harnesses and cable assemblies—also referred to as cable harnesses—employ exterior sheaths to organize and protect wires. However, the sheaths used in cable assemblies are made from more durable materials than those of wire harnesses, enabling them to withstand the conditions of heavier duty applications.
The requirements and restrictions of the intended application determine whether a wire harness or cable is more appropriate:
- Cable assemblies are ideal for use in applications that involve harsh operating or environmental conditions, such as excessive heat, moisture, friction, compression, abrasion, etc.
- Wire harnesses are ideal for applications that require a low-cost organizational solution and involve minimal exposure to harsh conditions.
Custom Harness Fabrication Services at APA
At American Precision Assemblers, we provide our customers with high-quality custom wire harness solutions. Our expert team handles all aspects of manufacturing, including:
- Crimping
- Cutting
- Coiling
- Connecting
- Sub-assembly integration
- Marking
- Soldering
- Stripping
- Terminal application
- Ultrasonic wire welding
We accommodate a wide range of wire harness needs by providing options for various harness features, connector types, coverings, insulation materials, and wire and cable sizes. See the table below for more information.
Contact us today to find out more about our wire harness capabilities. To discuss your unique application with one of our experts, request a quote.