Product Overview

Flexible Cable

Flexible RF Cables are essential to provide reliable signal transmission in applications that demand mechanical adaptability, intricate routing, or repeated dynamic movement. Unlike rigid or semi-rigid cables, their construction allows for repeated bending and tight turns without compromising electrical performance. Aptiv's D-Flex® Cable Series, for instance, exemplifies this balance, offering a range of flexible cables that combine excellent electrical characteristics with robust mechanical resilience. These cables are engineered with advanced dielectric materials, such as DynaCore® PTFE technology, and sophisticated shielding to ensure consistent impedance and minimal signal degradation. From complex internal equipment wiring to mobile and test applications, flexible cables provide the crucial link where performance meets practical routing challenges.

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Features and Benefits

  • Exceptional Mechanical Flexibility: Easy routing in confined spaces, tight bend radii, and dynamic applications.
  • Reliable Electrical Performance: Maintains excellent RF characteristics, stable impedance, and efficient signal transfer.
  • Ease of Installation: Simplifies assembly, reduces installation time, and minimizes damage during routing.
  • Reduced Space & Weight: Allows for more compact designs and up to 40% system weight reduction.
  • Robust & Durable Construction: Engineered to withstand mechanical stresses, ensuring long-term reliability.
  • Good Shielding Effectiveness: Multi-layered shielding provides strong immunity to EMI and minimizes signal leakage.

Specifications, Parts, and Filters

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Impedance
50 Ohms (standard RF).
Frequency Range
DC up to 100 GHz
Attenuation
Signal loss per unit length (e.g., dB/100 ft).
Velocity of Propagation (VP)
70-85% of light speed.
VSWR
Low across bandwidth for good impedance matching.
Shielding Effectiveness
>90 dB, strong interference protection.
Capacitance
25-32 pF/ft for 50 Ohm cables.
Voltage Rating
Hundreds to thousands of VRMS

Inner Conductor
Solid or stranded copper/silver-plated copper-clad steel for flexibility and conductivity.
Dielectric
PTFE or proprietary foams balance electricals and mechanical bending.
Outer Conductor/Shield
Metallic foil and braided layers (silver-plated/tin-plated copper) for flexibility and shielding.
Jacket
FEP, ETFE, or PUR, with options for abrasion/chemical protection and flexibility.
Outer Diameter
Ranges from ~0.05 to ~0.4 inches for various power and mechanical needs.
Minimum Bend Radius
Specified for static and dynamic bends without performance loss.
Weight
Lighter than rigid cables.
Durability
High flex-life for dynamic applications (e.g., robotics).

Temperature Range
Wide operational range (-40°C to +165°C, depending on materials).
Thermal Shock
Resists sudden temperature changes without affecting integrity.
Vibration & Shock
Reliable performance in mobile, industrial, and aerospace environments.
Moisture Resistance
Resists humidity and moisture; some designs offer IP-rated water immersion.
UV Resistance
UV-stabilized outer jackets for outdoor sun exposure.
Chemical Resistance
Resists various chemicals, oils, and fuels based on jacket material.
Flame Retardancy
Specific jacket materials meet flame retardancy standards.
Space-Grade Options
Variants like SpaceFlex™ designed for space environments (e.g., ETFE jackets, wide temperature tolerances).

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