Metal cable ties are an essential fastening solution for a wide range of industries, especially in environments where strength, durability, heat resistance, and corrosion resistance are paramount. Whether in construction, transportation, power engineering, or solar installations, these ties reliably organize and secure cables, hoses, and other components. But how exactly are metal cable ties used? And how do they differ from plastic cable ties?

What are metal cable ties?

Typically made from stainless steel, metal cable ties are a durable, weather-resistant fastener used to bundle and secure items. Unlike plastic cable ties, they can withstand high temperatures, UV exposure, fire, and chemical corrosion. These properties make them ideal for heavy-duty applications such as outdoor solar panel systems, shipbuilding, power stations, and manufacturing plants.

Companies like SIC Solar, a manufacturer and supplier of photovoltaic mounting systems, often incorporate stainless steel cable ties into their solar mounting designs to neatly and securely secure wires to tracks and structures. These ties help prevent wire damage, ensure safety, and maintain a clean, professional look for solar installations.

Guidelines for Using Metal Ties

• Choosing the Right Size and Type

Metal ties come in different lengths, widths, and tensile strengths. Choose the size that fits the diameter of your harness and the environmental conditions of your application. Some ties come with a coating (such as epoxy or polyester) to prevent abrasion when installed around sensitive wiring.

• Bundling Cables or Components

Neatly bundle cables, wires, or pipes together. For example, in a solar installation, cables from multiple solar panels are often routed along mounting rails. Using metal ties to bundle cables, wires, or pipes keeps the layout neat and reduces strain on connectors.

• Passing Ties Through Locking Heads

Pull the tail of a metal tie through the locking mechanism at the other end to form a loop. Pull the tie until it is tightly wrapped around the harness. The locking head typically contains a ball bearing mechanism or a crimp-style clasp to secure the tie once tightened.

• Tighten Ties Securely

For smaller applications, you can tighten metal ties by hand, but for a safer, more professional result, a tie tensioning tool is recommended. The tool applies even tension and ensures that the tie is properly secured in the locking head without damaging the cable.

• Trimming Excess Length

After tightening, use the tool’s cutting function or metal shears to remove the excess tail. Make sure the cut edges are smooth to avoid personal injury or damage to nearby components.

Advantages of Metal Ties in Solar Applications

1. Weather Resistance: In solar installations exposed to sun, wind, and rain, metal ties are far more durable than plastic ties, which become brittle over time.
2. High Temperature Resistance: Metal ties are able to withstand the high temperatures that build up on rooftop or ground-mounted solar installations.
3. Corrosion Resistance: Stainless steel, especially grades such as 304 or 316, has excellent resistance to rust and corrosion, making it an ideal choice for coastal or industrial environments.

SIC Solar uses stainless steel ties in many of its PV mounting systems, especially where outdoor durability and fire safety are critical. Compatible with a variety of support rails and brackets, these ties help to neatly secure DC cables to the mounting system.

Safety Tips for Using Metal Cable Ties

While metal cable ties are strong and reliable, they must be used correctly to avoid injury or damage:

• Always wear gloves when using metal cable ties and avoid contact with sharp edges.
• Avoid over-tightening, which can damage cable insulation.
• When working near delicate components or electronics, choose coated metal cable ties.

Whether you’re bundling wires in a solar array, securing industrial equipment, or installing telecommunications hardware, metal cable ties offer strength, reliability, and durability that plastic cable ties can’t match. With the right tools and techniques, they’re easy to install and will last for years in even the toughest conditions.