Respect the Cable

An often overlooked, simple step in preparing each jobsite is ensuring the power supply cable is properly protected and secured. This 480-volt cable serves as the lifeline for your BROKK ROBOT and can extend for hundreds of feet. Workers and equipment often move through the same workspace, putting crew members at risk of electric shock. The integrity of the cable is then also at risk.

Cable management is a crucial part of effectively operating and maintaining your Brokk robot. Taking time for this simple step promotes jobsite safety and extends the life of your robot and its power cable. A damaged cable can send an electric short which can blow a circuit breaker and put your crew’s safety at risk.

Our experts offer the following techniques to protect your Brokk robot’s lifeline and, in turn, your crew and robot.

1. Hang the Cable Overhead

To safeguard the cable on a jobsite, run the cable overhead to get it out of the way. Many jobsites already have common tools on hand to hang the cable. Solutions as simple as zip ties, hooks or coated wire are a great way to safely route the power supply cable overhead.

2. Use Cable Trays on the Ground

Some applications require the power supply cable to run on the ground. This means your heavy equipment like skid steers, loaders, and forklifts are driving over it and might accidentally crush the wires. A cable tray is a simple solution that protects the cord while equipment and workers move throughout the jobsite. Cable trays effectively protect cables from damage caused by heavy equipment with a durable rubber design.

3. Maneuver the Cable Safely

Brokk robots often accomplish a significant amount of work in a short period of time, requiring the power supply cable to be moved and repositioned frequently. When handling the power cable, it is a manufacturer-advised best practice to turn off the circuit breaker. If turning off the circuit breaker is not feasible, use a hot stick to protect yourself from electric shock. This insulated tool protects crew members in the event the cable is damaged or a live wire is exposed.

What to Do if your Cable is Damaged

If you think the cable is damaged, stop demolition immediately and turn off the power source. Carefully inspect the cable to ensure there are no damaged wires allowing for the potential of electric shock. The inspection process involves hand-over-hand inspection – or feeling the cable from end to end. This process may be time-consuming but, in turn, saves lives. Damaged wires can have visible damage or very discreet damage that can only be identified by closely inspecting the cable. If no damage is found once the cable is fully inspected and tested, you can safely resume work. If damage is found, an electrician will need to inspect the cable to identify whether it can be repaired or if the cable needs to be replaced.

Protected From All Angles

Blowing the circuit breaker, popping the plugs, or sending an electric short to your Brokk robot are just a few of the costly consequences of operating your machine with a damaged power supply cable. Careful management of the cable on a job site creates a safe environment for your machine and your crew. Using these cable management techniques can extend the life of your cable and your machine. And most importantly, it protects your safety.