What to Consider For Buying Cable Ties
When you envision cable ties, it can be fairly simple to associate them all as the same because they all have the same purpose; you fasten them and they lock by themselves. But as it turns out, there are many different types of cable ties you can buy today. Cables ties are available in different sizes, shapes, and thicknesses. Some can even last longer in extreme temperatures than others.
Colored cable ties have a large range of uses and features that allow them to be ideal in many situations, while some may still be more suitable than others. To help you choose the right table ties for your required job, here are some things to consider about the different types of cable ties available.
Length
Cable ties can be as long as 40 inches and as short as less than 4 inches. While there is a high probability that you will want to buy colored cable ties under a foot long, it is also important to measure the circumference of the item that you would like to tie: Either a bundle of cables, a door handle, or anything else. Because you can cut off excess lengths of cable ties after they are trimmed, it will not hurt if you end up buying cable ties that are too long. If they are just too short for tying, then they will be considered useless for your job.
Material
Cable ties can come in a large array of materials, each with unique purposes. Nylon cable ties are the most popular, as they offer a decent amount of durability and resistance to harsh temperatures and ultraviolet rays. Polypropylene is somewhat less strong than nylon, but it is able to resist hydrochloric acid and sodium chloride, which nylon does not resist that well. Tefzel ups the ante on polypropylene by withstanding more chemicals like hydrofluoric and sulfuric acids. For more on the stronger side, steel cable ties also exist, which offer resistance to extreme heat.
Construction
Cable ties are either made in one piece or two pieces. One-piece cable ties are the ones that you should be more familiar with. Each tie is a single unit and of the same material all throughout, even including the locking mechanism. One-piece cable ties are often less expensive than two-piece cable ties, and are good for use around the home and office.
Two-piece cable ties are expected to be higher in performance. Added to the cable tie is a stainless steel lock mechanism for smooth, tireless performance. Unlike one-piece cable ties that are permanently locked and cannot be changed, two-piece cable ties allow the user to adjust the circumference of the tie for exactly the right fit every time. If you tighten the tie too much, you do not have to discard it. While two-piece cable ties are more expensive, they are also commonly more durable.
Unique Features
You can get standard cable ties for a basic and effective job, or you can get other cable ties with additional features. Most ties lock permanently, and cannot be undone. If you are looking for ways to under the locking without cutting and discarding the tie, there are releasable cable ties to consider. There are also mounted head cable ties available for users who want to bundle cables together and mount them onto a surface so they do not fall off of it. These cable ties come with holes for screwing onto wood or another material.
There are cable ties available for any job that requires them. Consider these other ties if basic nylon does not work out for you.
