Stainless steel cable ties – Which types are there, when do you choose which one?

In addition to plastic cable ties, available in multiple types of plastic, cable ties are also available in a completely different material: stainless steel. Stainless steel cable ties stand our from their plastic counterparts, but offer unique properties which make them suited for a broad range of applications. Which types of stainless steel cable ties are available, for which applications they can be used and when you choose stainless steel cable ties over plastic cable ties, can be read in this blog!

Which types of stainless steel cable ties are there?

Stainless steel cable ties, or stainless steel zip ties, are available in two types of metal: AISI 304 and AISI 316L. These two types of metal look identical, but each have unique chemical compositions. AISI 316L for example contains more nickel and contains, in contrast to AISI 304, molybdenum. Therefore, AISI 316L is stronger than AISI 304, offers better corrosion resistance and handles changes in temperature better. This is not to say that cable ties made of AISI 304 are weak – they offer better corrosion resistance and are a lot stronger than plastic cable ties.

Stainless steel cable ties in both AISI 304 and AISI 316L are available with and without a coating. This coating gives the stainless steel cable tie a black color. With this polyester coating, the cable tie is even better suited in dealing with environmental influences (when used outside) and gives the cable tie better insulation properties. In addition, the coating has a practical advantage: the edges of the cable tie are less sharp with the coating. Therefore, the edges do not cut into the cables when the cable tie is used. Also, the dangers of cutting your fingers or cutting into your hand is greatly reduced by the coating.

When do you use stainless steel cable ties?

Stainless steel cable ties are mostly used in extreme conditions, where plastic cable ties do not meet the requirements. Due to the high tensile strength, high heat resistance and excellent corrosion resistance, these cable tie scan be used both indoors and outdoors for applications in which these properties are useful. This type of cable tie is often used in the offshore industry, mining, the aviation industry and the petrochemical industry.

The choice for AISI 304 or AISI 316L stainless steel cable ties depends on the specific use of the cable tie. Cable ties made of AISI 304 are less resistant to chlorides, acids and salt water than cable ties made of AISI 316L. When excellent corrosion resistance is required, AISI 316L cable ties are better suited for the job.

Coated stainless steel cable ties offer extra security: in addition to the reduced risk of cutting yourself and the better protection of the cables, the coating also offers an extra barrier for outside influences, enlonging the lifespan of the cable tie.

The ball lock closure of stainless steel cable ties is unique for this type of cable tie – plastic cable ties have a different kind of closure, using a locking barb. A ball lock closure is durable and reliable, and therefore very well suited for the heavy duty applications for which stainless steel cable ties are often used.

You can view our full range of stainless steel cable ties here.