Types of Cable Ties

Cable ties are small and mighty. Definitely not the star of any show, but extremely important and helpful especially when it comes to a submersible pump installation. But what else can they do? Cable ties are extremely versatile and come in a variety of lengths, guaranteeing there is a cable tie for any job.

In this post, we will explore the different types of cable ties to ensure you select the right one for your application. Cable ties are also commonly known as zip ties, throughout the post we will refer to them as cable ties to prevent confusion. Let's get started.

Natural Nylon and Black Nylon Cable Ties

Standard cable ties can be found in both natural nylon and black nylon. They are extremely easy to use and are a cost effective way of supporting and bundling wire or rope. Black nylon cable ties are weather and UV resistant, making them perfect for outdoor applications. Each cable tie has serrated "teeth" on one end of the tie, which locks to the other side of the strap. Cable ties come in a variety of sizes and lengths ensuring there is a cable tie for every job.

Most cable ties are made from nylon 66 which absorbs and releases moisture based on humidity. Cable ties are generally extremely flexible but depending on the humidity situation in a particular region, the cable tie could become hard or soft.

How to Select a Cable Tie Type

Natural Nylon

For indoor applications, a standard natural nylon cable tie is generally used. They are chemical, grease and oil-based product resistant. Although natural nylon cable ties are suitable for outdoor applications, they should not be used in direct sunlight making them more ideal for indoor applications.

Black Nylon

For any outdoor applications, ultraviolet and weather resistant cable ties are advised. Nylon black cable ties can be used in both indoor and outdoor applications but since they are UV and weather resistant, they are typically the go to for outdoor jobs. Similar to natural nylon cable ties, black nylon ties are resistant to oils and grease. Different from the natural nylon ties, the black ties are also resistant to environmental contaminants.

In order to select the correct cable tie for your application, you should first determine the bunching diameter of the load you wish to tie, then the width and length can be decided.

Different Cable Ties

Mini 18

This size of cable tie is perfect for small bundles of wires or areas where there is no room for larger cable ties. They have a smooth rounded tip to prevent the user from cutting themselves and it makes inserting them into hard to reach places simple. They lock quickly and securely around wire, cables and rope. Mini 18 cable ties have a tensile strength of 18lbs.

Intermediate 40

The intermediate 40 cable ties provide a stronger hold compared to the mini 18. They are still small enough to fit into small spaces or to wrap around smaller bundles. The intermediate 40 have a tensile strength of 40lbs and ensure a quick and secure lock.

Heavy Duty 120

The heavy duty 120 cable ties have maximum tensile strength of 120lbs making them ideal for securing duct work, large wires, cables and hanging fences or signs. This style of cable tie includes the rounded tip for easy insertion, guaranteeing a quick and secure lock.

Submersible Pump

Cable ties are effectively used to secure pump cable to the riser pipe between the cable guards. Most codes require that the cable be fastened to the riser pipe at intervals of no larger than 10 ft apart. For a closer look at how cable ties are used in a submersible pump application, check out our blog, Components of a Typical Submersible Pump Installation.

Cable ties are simple to use and can be used anywhere from odd jobs around the house to securing pump cable in a submersible pump installation. There are cable ties available for every application, keeping in mind natural is ideal for indoor applications and black is more fitting for outdoor applications.

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