When choosing metal or stainless steel cable ties, the choice is between coat or uncoated ties. Here, we look at what they each are and what they are used for.
Metal cable ties
Metal cable ties are the strongest of all cable ties, and the most durable. Manufactured from marine grade stainless steel, metal cable ties are ideally suited for extreme weather conditions as well as extremes of temperature. Most stainless steel cable ties are manufactured from 304 stainless steel, but at cableties-online we supply metal cable ties of premium marine grade 316 stainless steel. 316 stainless steel is of superior quality, containing a mineral (molybdenum) which improves resistance to pitting and corrosion, as well as heat resistance.
How strong are metal cable ties?
The strength of all cable ties is referred to as tensile strength. Tensile strength is measured in kilograms and denotes the weight a cable tie can bear before it breaks. It is important to know the tensile strength of any cable tie you are using to ensure it is strong enough for the job in hand. Stainless steel cable ties from cableties-online are supplied in 9 lengths and 2 widths – 4.6mm and 7.9mm with respective strengths of 89kg and 160kg.
Features of stainless steel cable ties
Stainless steel cable ties offer a broad working temperature range (-80°C to +538°C) and are therefore resistant to extreme conditions of any kind. As stainless steel does not perish or degrade under prolonged UV exposure, they are ideal for outdoor applications and as they are impervious to water penetration, they are corrosion-resistant.
Uses for stainless steel cable ties
Stainless steel cable ties are used around the world in a variety of industries including shipbuilding and mining. They are popular within the HVAC industry as they do not perish, dry out or emit gases and of course their unrivalled strength makes them ideal for use with heavy plant machinery and equipment.
Coated stainless steel cable ties
Coated cable ties are stainless steel cable ties that have been covered in different substances. At cableties-online, we stock two types of coated stainless steel cable ties, PVC coated stainless steel cable ties and epoxy resin coated stainless steel cable ties. PVC is a thermoplastic polymer while epoxy resin is a type of nylon known as a thermosetting polymer.
How strong are coated stainless steel cable ties?
Coated stainless steel cable ties share the unparalleled strength of their uncoated metal counterparts, i.e. a loop tensile strength of 89kg at 4.6mm width and 160kgs at 7.9mm.
Features of coated stainless steel cable ties
Alongside their strength, coated cable ties have a generous working temperature range of -40°C - +150°C. The PVC or epoxy resin coating reduces the risk of corrosion and provides efficient resistance against acids, chemicals and salt. The coating also protects users against cuts and scratches that can occur with uncoated metal cable ties. Where cabling is at risk of damage but requires strong and durable management, coated cable ties offer a strong yet sensitive harness. Coated cable ties will also reduce the risk of a reaction occurring where contact with galvanised steel is a possibility.
Uses for coated stainless steel cable ties
Coated cable ties can be found in the chemical, mining and shipbuilding industries, as well as on off-shore oil rigs, thanks to the hardwearing coating offering protection against harsh conditions.
Stainless steel cable ties and coated stainless steel cable ties from cableties-online
All our stainless steel cable ties, epoxy resin-coated metal cable ties and our PVC-coated metal cable ties feature a unique, non-releasable roller ball locking system and have a self-locking head design for speedy installation. We also supply a range of installation tools.
Always ensure you are using the correct cable tie for any project you are involved with, and if you are unsure or have any questions, our experienced staff is available to help over the telephone on 01623 412160 or via email at sales@cableties-online.co.uk
