What are Cables Ties?
Sometimes called zip ties, cable ties are self-locking fasteners used to bundle cables and wires together for organization and to prevent damage to cable systems. Cable ties have several uses including electrical installation, identification and network connectivity, as well as routing, protection and insulation.
Standard cable ties are strong, versatile and resilient and used in a variety of industries such as aerospace, automotive, defense, energy, industrial automation, machine and equipment manufacturing, railways, heavy equipment and data communications.
Common uses for cable ties include:
- Temporary fastening
- Attaching elements to plates, studs or panel edges
- Parallel routing
Superior Industrial Supply counts on cable tie manufacturer, Hellermann Tyton, to provide a variety of cable ties in many sizes to accommodate just about any application.
Need a cable tie for a specialty application?
Give us a call at 314-638-6500 OPTION 4.
Basics of Using Cable Ties for Professional Fastening
Most cable ties work much like a belt. Simply slide one end of the strap through a buckle until its serrated edge catches on the tongue of the cable head. Some cable ties may operate a bit differently, however, especially if the cable tie is not serrated. In the event of a smooth strap, a pin or barb may be inserted into the surface of the strap to hold it in place.
Color-Coded Cable Ties for Visual Communication
Have you ever struggled trying to remember what cable or wire goes where?
Cable ties are ideal for applications that require color-coding and are available in many colors. While black is still one of the most common colors associated with zip ties, there are several color options that help workers identify the right cables or wires at a glance. Fast and accurate identification can reduce the time workers spend trying to identify wires and can also prevent contamination, miscommunication and accidental contact with live wires.
4 Tips for Color-Coding Your Cable Management System
- Keep it simple.
- Be consistent.
- Use contrasting colors.
- Clearly communicate color-coding program to employees.
Selecting the Right Cable Tie for Your Next Job
Standard cable ties deliver positive holds on wire and cable bundles with high tensile strength and low insertion force in two ways. You can apply cable ties through hand installation or through tensioning tools for high volume applications. But if you are working in harsh environments, you may require specialty cable tie options. Specialty cable tie options provide additional features such as
- Weather-resistance
- Impact-resistance
- Temperature-resistance
- Reusable or releasable options
- Metal-detectable
- Low fire hazard options
The next time you’re in the market for professional fastening solutions like cable ties, consider these elements:
Design
Depending on the application need, you may require a simple zip tie to secure wires and cables. Other options include releasable cable ties, reusable cables ties, cable ties with or without serration and cable tie clamps that offer additional securing capabilities.
Length
Cable ties come in many different lengths to accommodate almost any need and can range in lengths of4 inches to 52 inches long. Since most cable ties can be trimmed to fit after installation, buying one too long isn’t often a problem. However, you don’t want to find out your cable tie is too short at the last minute.
Environment
For more intensive activities that involve force, vibration or extreme temperatures you may require cables ties that are specially designed to withstand harsh conditions. Options may include stainless steel cable ties or cable ties that are coated to prevent corrosion. Metal-detectable options also exist and are commonly used in food, beverage and pharmaceutical industries.
Strength
How much of a load does your cable tie need to bear? This is called the minimum tensile strength and is determined according to predefined Military Specifications and Standards of the USA (MIL-S-23190E). Hellermann Tyton recommends reviewing the standard to determine the minimum tensile strength your application requires for safety and effective holding power.
CONTACT US TODAY TO DISCUSS YOUR NEEDS OR TO SCHEDULE AN ONSITE CONSULTATION AT 314-638-6500 OPTION 4.
Store Cable Ties Properly to Extend Life and Effectiveness
Hellermann Tyton cable ties are made from high-quality polyamide (PA), which is considered to be a hygroscopic material. Hygroscopic means that they absorb and lose moisture that is found in the air. Over time, that moisture can cause the device to deteriorate and weaken. To extend the lifetime of your cable ties, it’s important that you store them properly when not in use. Here are two simple tips forgetting the most life out of your cable management devices.
- Use immediately after removing from protective pouch
- Store away from sunlight, humidity and heat.
We carry everything for your company’s electrical supply needs including cable and wire ties and other cable management products from top-rated brands like Hellermann Tyton. If you have questions on how Superior can help you improve operations with genuine quality products, stop into our St. Louis location, or call 314-638-6500 OPTION 4.
