What Are Coated Cable Ties?

What precisely defines a coated cable tie? Is it composed of nylon or metal? What materials are used to coat cable ties, and what purposes do they serve? Our comprehensive guide offers insight into all aspects of coated cable ties.

What are coated cable ties?

Coated cable ties encompass metal or stainless steel cable ties that have been coated with various types of nylon.

What are cable ties coated with?

Metal cable ties undergo coating processes using either epoxy resin or PVC. Epoxy resin entails a nylon variant known as a thermosetting polymer, while PVC represents a thermoplastic polymer. Here at GZS, we offer a range of both PVC-coated stainless steel cable ties and epoxy resin-coated stainless steel cable ties.

Epoxy Coated Stainlesss Steel Cable Ties

Attributes of coated stainless steel cable ties

In addition to their tensile strength, coated stainless steel cable ties feature a working temperature range of -40°C to +150°C. They also provide outstanding resistance to acids, chemicals, and salt, owing to the protective coating that mitigates the risk of corrosion. Furthermore, a coated cable tie safeguards both the bundled cables and the user from potential cuts and abrasions, common with uncoated stainless steel cable ties. They prove ideal for applications necessitating high tensile strength yet demanding careful bundling of sensitive harnesses.

What are coated cables ties used for?

The protective coating on stainless-steel cable ties renders them highly resistant to harsh weather conditions, making them perfect for outdoor use. Their durable coating has made them a preferred choice across various industries that face demanding and challenging environments. These cable ties find widespread application in sectors such as chemical, oil rig platforms, mass transit, shipbuilding, and mining. They are particularly recommended for situations where contact with galvanized steel is likely, as they effectively mitigate the risk of contact corrosion.

Coated vs. Uncoated stainless steel cable ties

Stainless steel cable ties are frequently utilized for heavy-duty applications owing to their high resistance to external influences and exceptional tensile strength. However, it's essential to recognize that not all stainless steel cable ties are created equal, as they come in various material types and are available both coated and uncoated. So, what sets them apart, and when should you opt for each type? Find out in this blog!

Material: AISI 304 vs AISI 316L

Stainless steel cable ties are manufactured in two material grades: AISI 304 and AISI 316L. While both offer commendable performance, AISI 316L stands out due to its 2% molybdenum content and high nickel concentration, providing superior resistance against acids. AISI 304, on the other hand, carries a risk of corrosion when exposed to seawater, making AISI 316L a more suitable choice for such environments.

Apart from material quality, another crucial distinction lies in whether the stainless steel cable ties come with or without a coating. But what purpose does the coating serve, and does it impact the tie's performance? Let's delve into when to choose coated versus uncoated cable ties.

The Coating

The coating on stainless steel cable ties is typically made of polyester, serving to shield the tie from environmental factors, thereby reducing the risk of corrosion. Additionally, the coating provides protection to users against cuts during handling and safeguards the cables from potential damage caused by the sharp edges of the tie.

Importantly, the coating does not compromise the performance of the cable tie. In fact, it enhances durability, prolonging the lifespan of the tie compared to its uncoated counterpart. Thus, when longevity and enhanced protection are paramount, opting for coated stainless steel cable ties is the prudent choice.

When should you opt for each type of cable tie?

A coated cable tie is typically preferred for outdoor use, as the coating provides an additional layer of protection, enhancing resistance to environmental factors. Conversely, when predominantly used indoors, a stainless steel cable tie without coating suffices. It's worth noting that uncoated cable ties are generally more economical than their coated counterparts, which can be a significant factor to consider when selecting the appropriate type of cable tie.