Posted by 
Every manufacturing plant, industrial facility, and offshore oil rig makes use of drag chains to protect expensive cabling and reduce the chances of workplace injuries. More commonly referred to as cable carriers, these essential pieces of industrial equipment are designed to protect cables, wires, and hoses from damage even in extreme environments, stop them from getting tangled, and prevent trip hazards. Cable carriers come in many forms, but they all have that primary goal in common.
The Importance of Cable Carriers
The primary purpose of cable carriers is to extend the usable lifespan of the conduits contained within them and prevent unnecessary downtime. When cables get tangled, workers must stop what they’re doing to address the issue immediately, and even once everything is straightened out, they may be left with weakened cables. Should a conduit be severed during this process, it almost always leads to a full replacement of the cable, taking more time away from productive work activities and costing the company more money.
Cable carriers don’t just protect the company’s bottom line. They also form a vital part of effective workplace safety plans. Keeping the cables out of the way where people can’t trip on them reduces the likelihood of injury substantially. In most of the workplaces that feature cable carriers, the risk of a serious trip-and-fall injury is greater than usual. The injured worker could come into contact with chemicals or heavy machinery, and the drag chain itself may be carrying potentially dangerous substances.
Drag Chain Benefits
Still not sure if it’s worth spending a small amount of money to install a drag chain? There are also additional benefits to consider. Cable carriers don’t just reduce downtime and increase employee safety. They also extend the lifespan of cables, hoses, and wiring and are versatile enough to carry electric lines, fluids, and gasses simultaneously. There are many designs available, and they’re always built to last. The money saved on preventing damage to the conduits, alone, makes cable carriers worth the investment for any industrial business owner.
Where to Use Cable Carriers
Some of the industries that use cable carriers are obvious. They’re often found in manufacturing plants, for example, where electricity and materials in gas or liquid form must be transported safely throughout the facility. The oil and gas industry also uses cable carriers extensively.
Not all of the uses for these vital pieces of equipment are equally obvious. People are just as likely to find them in car washes, medical facilities, laboratories, and automated warehouses.
How to Find the Right Drag Chain
Given the diverse applications for cable carriers, it should come as no surprise that there are many options available. Some cable carriers are made of steel, while others are fabricated using lightweight plastic. There are enclosed and open carriers, modular carriers, and even multi-axis carriers. The best way to find a drag chain for any specific purpose is to get a clear idea of how it will be used and then contact a reputable industrial protective equipment manufacturer for help.