Push Pull Cable Control Considerations
The load, routing, friction, stretch, effects of bends on length, temperature, and environment are all aspects to consider for the engineering of a Push-Pull Control. The working loads should be the highest in the pull (tension) mode, and the push (compression) mode should be 50% or less of the pull mode. The travel should be limited to 5″ maximum for most light and medium duty applications. This will minimize the loss of input versus output.
All Push-Pull controls are subject to the loss of motion between the input and output ends after the load is applied. Backlash and deflection can result from total lost motion of the control. The efficiency of the Push Pull Control is determined by the conduit, wire core, number of bends, and the relative friction between the core and conduit. The friction created by the bends reduces the efficiency of the control.
| Tubing | Braided Reinforced | Bowden | Flat Wire Bowden with Liner | Long Lay | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Features | Lightweight, greatest flexibility | Lightweight, good flexibility, low crush resistance | Medium flexibility, compressive strength, and crush resistance | Some flexibility, good efficiency, compressive strength, and crush resistance | Least flexibility, high compression strength and crush resistance |
| Common Uses | Light duty seat releases, vent controls | Release assemblies, seat latches, window mechanisms, gas spring controls | Lower efficiency throttle controls | Remote latch and push-pull controls | Brake and clutch cables, strong push-pull controls |
What Is a Push-Pull Cable?
A push-pull cable control allows for precise control of multidirectional mechanical motion. These versatile controls come in many variations, and you'll find them in a wide range of applications. For example, you can use push-pull cables in a bicycle's braking system or to manage how cyclists shift gears. You'll find these cables in aircraft applications, too — engineers use them in the rudder and vertical stabilizer.
A push-pull cable control comprises two cables. One cable activates a device while the other one halts its operation.
When Should I Use Push-Pull Cables?
Push-pull cables, or control cables, have a straightforward function — they activate equipment and stop operation. They are crucial for engineering mechanical components and analog systems. When engineers must choose a method to activate equipment physically, their first choice is usually a push-pull control cable.
What Are Control Cables Used For?
You'll find push-pull control cables in an array of applications across diverse industries, including:
- Aerospace: Engineers use control cables in landing gear mechanisms, throttle controls and other aircraft systems.
- Automotive: You can use push-pull cables for gear shifting, throttle control and other control mechanisms.
- Industrial machinery: These cables can control levers, valves and other mechanisms.
- Agricultural equipment: Engineers rely on push-pull cables to control mechanisms such as clutch and brake systems.
- Marine: With push-pull control cables, you can control systems on boats and ships, such as steering.
Control Cable Specifications
Different applications have different push-pull cable requirements. Light-duty applications, such as small vehicles, will use different cables than more robust applications, such as heavy ships or aircraft.
However, the fundamental components of most control cables include:
- Solid wire or core cable: Engineers will use a cable that will support an application's load requirements. They'll also consider how much cable flexibility an application needs. Solid wires offer minimal bending, while standard cable achieves greater flexibility.
- Conduit: A conduit guides cables along its route and ensures push-pull forces are executed smoothly.
- Fittings: Specialized push-pull fittings allow you to attach your assemblies to other parts or install them in larger systems.
Contact Motion Control Technologies for Custom Push-Pull Control Cables
Motion Control Technologies has offered premium push-pull cables for various applications since 1998. Our expert engineers enjoyed the challenge of creating application-specific push-pull cables that offer precise control over mechanical systems. As an ISO9001: 2015 certified facility, we offer quality control cables that meet stringent industry standards.
Contact our helpful team online to discuss your unique needs.