A Complete Guide to Convoluted Loom - Applications, Installation and Repair

Understanding Convoluted Loom

Convoluted loom, sometimes called split loom, is a type of protective sleeving used to organize and protect wires and cables in vehicles and machinery. It is a tubular product made of nylon, polyethylene or other flexible materials with a longitudinally split seam allowing it to open for wrapping around wire harnesses.

Benefits of Using Convoluted Loom

There are several key benefits to using convoluted loom for automotive and industrial applications:

• Protects wires and cables from abrasion, cuts, heat damage and other environmental hazards
• Creates an organized wire harness by bundling and routing wires together
• The slit design allows for easy wire insertion without having to disconnect terminals or connectors
• Provides strain relief by limiting wire movement
• Variety of sizes and materials to suit different wire gauges and applications
• More durable than standard vinyl or fabric sleeving
• Resists fuels, oils, acids, and many other chemicals

Common Applications

Some of the most common uses of convoluted loom include:

• Automotive wiring harnesses - Bundling and protecting wires under the dash, under the hood, and in other areas of the vehicle.
• Trailer wiring - Protecting and organizing 4-pin, 7-pin and other trailer light connectors.
• Machinery wiring - Safeguarding wires and cables on industrial equipment from abrasion and cuts.
• Outdoor power equipment - Protecting wire harnesses on lawn mowers, generators, snow blowers, etc.
• Marine applications - Use waterproof acrylic coated loom to protect boat wiring from water exposure.
• Electrical panels - Organizing wire bundles entering and exiting control cabinets.
• Robots and automation - Managing cables and wire harnesses between robotic components.

Working With Convoluted Loom

Using convoluted loom on a vehicle or equipment wiring project is straightforward:

1. Select the Right Size

Convoluted loom is available in a range of diameters to accommodate different wire gauges and number of conductors. Measure the bundle diameter and count the wires to determine the appropriate loom size.

2. Cut to Length

Cut pieces of convoluted loom to the desired lengths using sharp shears. Leave some extra length to allow for slack and avoid putting tension on the wires.

3. Open and Insert Wires

Simply spread open the slit seam to insert the wire bundle into the loom. For easier loading, use a loom spreader tool to open up the sleeve.

4. Close and Position

With the wires inserted, close up the slit by pressing or rolling it closed. Then position the sleeved harness in the desired routing configuration and secure with zip ties or clamps.

5. Seal Ends (Optional)

To prevent unraveling and keep dirt and moisture out of the ends, heat shrink tubing or end caps can be installed on the loom.

Tips for Professional Loom Installation

Follow these tips when installing convoluted loom for the highest quality and most durable wiring harness:

• Use loom size charts to select the ideal diameter based on wire gauge and number of conductors.
• Only fill loom to about 70% capacity to avoid excessive tightness.
• Stagger splice joints between loom sections to minimize bulk.
• Avoid excessive bending or kinking which can damage wires.
• Use grommets when passing loom through bulkheads and panels to prevent chafing.
• Secure loom at least every 12 inches along the routing path.
• In high temperature areas, use loom rated for a minimum of 105°C.
• In outdoor applications, opt for UV and water resistant acrylic coated loom.

Troubleshooting Damaged Loom

It’s not uncommon for convoluted loom to become damaged, split or unraveled after years of service. Here are some troubleshooting tips:

• Inspect along the length of the loom to identify any gaps or splits. This may indicate worn sections or places where the harness is rubbing.
• To repair small gaps, wrap the area with self-fusing silicone repair tape.
• For longer splits, cut out the damaged section and splice in a new piece of loom using connectors or solder/heat shrink.
• If the loom is severely degraded, it’s often best to fully replace the affected wire harness.
• When replacing loom, take care not to damage the original wires when removing old loom material.
• Address any wiring routing issues or sources of abrasion to ensure the new loom lasts.

Properly installed and maintained, convoluted loom provides excellent organization and protection for wiring harnesses. Following the recommendations above will help ensure your electrical systems are safeguarded from damage for years to come.

FAQs

What is convoluted loom?

Convoluted loom, also called split loom, is a flexible tubing product used to bundle and protect wire harnesses. It has a longitudinally split seam that allows the sleeve to open up for installing wires.

What materials is convoluted loom made from?

Common materials used to manufacture convoluted loom are nylon, polyethylene, polyester, neoprene and acrylic. Different materials provide various levels of flexibility, abrasion resistance, temperature tolerance and other properties.

Can I repair damaged convoluted loom?

Yes, it is possible to repair sections of damaged convoluted loom using self-fusing silicone tape, cutting out the damaged section and splicing, or fully replacing the affected portion of the wire harness.

How do I prevent splits and unraveling of the loom?

To prevent the loom from splitting and fraying, avoid excessive bending or tight bend radii, secure it properly along the routing path, use grommets when passing through panels, and seal the ends with heat shrink or end caps.

What size convoluted loom should I use?

Select convoluted loom based on the wire gauge and number of conductors, allowing about 70% fill capacity. Use a loom size chart to identify the recommended diameter for your application.