A Guide to Cable Ties

Cable ties are fasteners used to bundle cables together to keep them organized and prevent damage. They come in a wide array of sizes, lengths, materials, etc. Their uses vary across a broad range of industries, but they are all effective means of managing cables. In this blog, we will discuss the types, materials, and applications of cable ties.

First, let’s look at the types of cable ties:

Standard - The most common type of cable tie. They are self-locking, typically single use, and available in a wide array of colors for color coding.

Releasable - Can be used more than once and can be opened to add more cables. They are also known as reusable cable ties. Some styles are available in multiple colors.

Push Mount - Constructed with a mounting device. They have an adhesive base or are affixed with a screw. Their benefits include a fast mounting process and more secure fastening.

Screw Mount - Ideal for fastening to metal or wooden panels. They can be screwed or bolted down.

Belt - Feature a flexible design and quick-release mechanism.

Stainless Steel - Designed to withstand extreme temperatures in addition to being resistant to vibration, radiation, and fire.

Heavy Duty Strap & Buckle - Designed for heavy duty applications with a maximum tensile strength of 350 pounds. They feature steel teeth on a buckle that grip the strap permanently.

Double-Headed - Keep two wires separated without the need for additional cable ties.

Hook & Loop - Ideal for use when a temporary bond is needed. They can be fastened and released several times and can be used for fragile cables.

Cable ties are made in a wide array of materials. The most common is nylon, as it is very tough and has good resistance to heat and abrasion as well as fuels and most chemicals. Nylon can be heat and UV stabilized, allowing cables to withstand extended exposure to high temperatures and direct sunlight. Another material, polypropylene (PE),  is ideal for uses where resistance to chemicals is needed. PE is resistant to acids, polyhydric alcohols, and basic salts, making it better suited to these applications than nylon.

A third material used is low density polyethylene (LDPE). It is not commonly used but stretches and conforms well to surfaces while being resistant to chemicals, acids, alcohols, bases, and esters. For these reasons, LDPE is used for ties meant to bundle cables temporarily. Finally, stainless steel cables provide high tensile strength and can withstand temperatures ranging from –328°F to 1000°F. There are two types of stainless steel used in cable: 304, used for general purposes, and 316, which is used in corrosive environments.

Cable ties have many applications, one of which is within the aerospace industry. The average passenger aircraft contains 124 miles of cables, making cable management critical. The types of cable ties needed vary. For small, tight places, miniature heat-stabilized cable ties are crucial. However, for hoses and large cables, heavy-duty stabilized cables are a must. Push mount cable ties also have many uses within aerospace. Other applications of cable ties include the automotive, equipment manufacturing, consumer appliance, and electronics industries. Whatever you intend to use cable ties for, ensure you are getting them from a trusted source.

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1. dany geller
2. Posted on April 1, 2021
aviation

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