Wire Rope Cable and Considerations
All wire rope cables, wire rope cable assemblies and cable lanyards are manufactured from single wires that are twisted into main strands. The most standard constructions of wire rope are 1×7, 1×19, 7×7, and 7×19, which represent number (#) of individual strands by number (#) of wires in each strand.
The most common strand is the 1×7 construction which includes one straight center strand with six wires wrapped around it. This basic 1×7 independent wire rope core construction is the basis for 1×19, 7×7, and 7x19 cables. The 1×7 construction is the stiffest, while the 7×19 is one of the most flexible. SA Miniature Stainless Steel cables range from .009 to .045 inch. Our commercial quality galvanized and stainless steel cables range from .032 to 1/4 inch diameter.
For assistance in choosing the proper wire rope cable for your industry, read the following guide below:
- 1x7: The most commonly found strand in the use of mechanical cable. The strand is stiff compared to others and allows little give or stretch.
- 1x19: This option is more flexible and resistant than a 1x7. This configuration can be used across several applications as it's slightly more well-rounded.
- 7x7: A reliable option for a wide range of uses. A 7x7 configuration is durable, flexible and can get used with a pulley system.
- 7x19: A 7x19 option is by far the most durable and flexible cable. Additionally, this is the superior option for pulleys because it carries an excessive amount of weight.
Wire Rope Cable / Wire Rope Assemblies Construction Table
| Straight Tensile Load | Tensile Load With Flexing | Over Pulley | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Recommended Construction | 1x19 | 7x19 | 7x19 Coated and Lubricated |
| Minimum Construction | 1x7 | 7x7 | 7x7 |
Wire Rope Cable Considerations
When selecting the appropriate wire rope cable for your wire rope assemblies or control product, there are a few factors which need to be considered:
CONSTRUCTURAL STRETCH:
All wire rope cables have spaces between each strand and wire. When a load is applied, the spaces between the wires are reduced and the wire rope cable will grow in length. The amount of the growth is determined by the load applied, length of the cable, and construction of the cable. Motion Control Technologies’ cable assemblies can be proofloaded (by applying a load of 60% of minimum cable breaking strength to the assembly) to eliminate any constructional stretch.
ELASTIC STRETCH:
The elastic stretch is an elongation of the cable wires when a load is applied. This can be a significant factor when the yield point of the wire is surpassed. Under this process, each strand of a mechanical cable gets longer as it experiences tension, and this correlates directly to the weight being added or pulled.
Ideally, the mechanical rope cable will give minimal elastic stretch for safety purposes. Our company takes the time to ensure products withstand the stressors of job applications and sites. Please contact Motion Control Technologies to determine the elastic stretch of a specific cable.
MINIMUM BREAKING STRENGTH:
The minimum breaking strength of the cable is referred to as the minimum tensile strength. This is measured in pounds (lbs) or kilograms (kgs) and should be based on the maximum working load and safety factor. The recommended minimum safety factor ration is 10:1 which represents the minimum breaking strength TO the maximum working load.
Other factors to determine when engineering the correct cable for your requirements are CABLE DIAMETER,CABLE MATERIAL, and COATING ON THE CABLE.
| Flexibility | Tensile Strength | Stretch Resistance | Relative Cost | Corrosion Resistance | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Highest | 7x19 | 1x19 | 1x7 | 7x19 | Coated Stainless Steel |
| Medium-High | 7x7 | 1x7 | 1x19 | 7x7 | Bare Stainless Steel |
| Medium Low | 1x19 | 7x19 | 7x7 | 1x19 | Coated Galvanized Steel |
| Lowest | 1x7 | 7x7 | 7x19 | 1x7 | Galvanized Steel |
Cable Diameter
Larger cables contain a wider diameter because they are thicker and support more weight. Mechanical cable typically carries a diameter larger than 3/8-inch to withstand tension in multiple applications. Custom mechanical wire assemblies give your customers room to change the cable diameter to meet the needs of a project.
Wire Rope Cable Materials
We consider various materials when engineering wire rope cable for consumers. With each of our customers requiring different specifications from the next, Motion Control Technologies wants to learn as much as possible about expectations for our products before engineering. Our company incorporates both stainless and galvanized steel into wire rope cable assemblies, lanyards and more for their particular characteristics.
Stainless Steel Wire Rope Mechanical Assemblies
Using stainless steel in the mechanical cabling industry calls for positive results. Motion Control Technologies understands the demand for stainless steel as the material stands strong against corrosive environments.
Stainless steel can withstand extreme temperatures without experiencing damage, and it is easy to clean over extended use. Ultimately, our team can engineer the proper tools for our customers using this material thanks to its ability to get cut, molded and fabricated.
Galvanized Steel Wire Rope Mechanical Assemblies
Motion Control Technologies recommends using galvanized steel when corrosion factors are not the main concern. Galvanized steel acts as a powerhouse material for mechanical wire tether assembly, and it is extremely cost-effective for our customers. This material has a long life expectancy and offers a sense of reliability.
Wire Rope Cable Coating
Mechanical cable coating is often referred to as "jacket material". Adding plastic coatings to wire rope cable provides another layer of protection from stress and extreme conditions. Coated wire rope includes nylon and vinyl coating options that last against corrosion and everyday use, so contact Motion Control Technologies to help you decide the best solution.
Engineering the perfect wire rope cable assemblies comes from working with Motion Control Technologies.
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