What defines cable bending radius, and what risks come from exceeding its limits?

Cable bending radius—the minimum curvature a cable can tolerate without damage (measured as diameter multiples)—depends on conductor flexibility, insulation rigidity, and sheath type. Exceeding it causes conductor kinking (impaired continuity), insulation micro-cracking (reduced dielectric strength), and sheath abrasion (moisture/contaminant ingress). Preventative steps include verifying reel diameter and post-bending sheath tests, critical for avoiding 12–15% of premature industrial cable failures.