Cable Ties
Cable ties, also known as wire ties, zip ties, or hose ties, are common low-cost consumables found in workshops, offices, and construction sites across New Zealand (NZ). They are used to secure, fasten, and separate cables and wires for the purposes of safety, identification and organisation. Cable ties come in various colours, materials (including plastic ties, metal cable ties, and stainless steel cable ties), lengths, and widths, making them a versatile addition to any toolkit.
Cable ties are generally single-use devices as they are cut off rather than loosened and reused. However, reusable cable ties are also available. If a closed loop needs to be opened again, rather than destroying the cable tie by cutting, it may be possible to release the ratchet from the rack. While some cable ties are designed for reuse with a tab that releases the ratchet, usually a sewing needle or a small screwdriver needs to be inserted between the ratchet and the rack in order to release the tie and allow it to be reused.
At RS, we have listed all of our products with their tensile strength converted to Newtons (N) in order to make our customer's journeys easier. We know that what constitutes as 'heavy duty cable ties' can be subject to different opinions, but we have decided to classify any of our products with a tensile strength of 750N or over as 'heavy duty', a choice we made with consideration of guidelines from nelco.com.
RS offers a wide range of cable ties suitable for a variety of applications, industries and environments. These include but are not limited to black cable ties, large cable ties, coloured cable ties, metal cable ties, stainless steel cable ties, reusable cable ties, and more.
Our range of cable ties features products from well-known and respected brands such as Legrand, HellermannTyton, and Thomas & Betts, as well as our own professional brand RS PRO. For more information on how to choose the type of cable ties that most suit your needs, you can consult our bespoke cable ties guide.
How to Use a Cable Tie
Cable ties are simple to use and remove. Position the cable tie in the desired manner around the chosen subject (multiple wires or cables, for example). Insert the pointed end of the tie into the head of the tie. When the teeth of the cable tie catch, pull the head to tighten as far as it goes. If the tie does not lock into place, undo and turn the tie over; it will only tighten if inserted the right way. If you do not want to re-use the tie, you can trim the excess tie at the end. This loose part of the tie may have to be cut for health & safety purposes.
Types of Cable Ties
Coloured Cable Ties: Using coloured cable ties is a great way to group cables together in an easily recognisable way.
Marker Ties: Cable marker ties can be written on to identify what the tie is holding.
Releasable Cable Ties: Also known as reusable cable ties. Although generally more expensive than single-use, they offer long-term cost savings due to their reusability. The catch that is fitted to the head can be released to stop the teeth biting into the head, allowing the tie to be used many times.
Benefits of Using Cable Ties
Cable ties are an essential tool for organising and securing cables in various applications across New Zealand. Their popularity stems from the numerous benefits they offer:
- Cost-Effective: Cable ties are a cost-effective solution for cable management. They are relatively inexpensive compared to other fastening methods, making them ideal for large-scale projects or applications where budget is a concern.
- Ease of Use: Zip ties are incredibly easy to use, requiring minimal effort and no specialised tools for installation. Simply wrap the cable tie around the wires or cables, insert the tail into the head, and tighten.
- Versatility: Cable ties come in various sizes, colours, and materials, such as reusable cable ties, to coloured cable ties, or heavy-duty cable ties. This versatility allows them to be used for a wide range of applications, from colour coding and organising small electronics cables to securing large industrial bundles.
- Durability: Most cable ties are made from durable materials, such as nylon or stainless steel, that can withstand harsh environments and resist wear and tear.
- Safety: Properly bundled and secured cables using cable ties can help prevent tripping hazards and reduce the risk of electrical accidents. They also protect cables from abrasion and damage, ensuring their longevity and functionality.
What are Cable Ties Used For?
The applications for cable ties are virtually limitless, extending far beyond their primary function of bundling wires and cables.
Here are some common uses:
- General Cable Management: Cable ties are essential for organising and securing cables in homes, offices, and workshops. They keep wires tidy, preventing tangles and reducing tripping hazards. Reusable cable ties are particularly useful as they allow for easy adjustments and modifications.
- Electrical Installations: Electricians rely on cable ties to neatly bundle electrical wiring during installations, ensuring a professional finish and making future maintenance easier.
- DIY Projects: Cable ties are a DIY enthusiast's best friend, serving as a versatile tool for various projects around the house and garden. They can be used to repair fences, secure hoses, create trellises for plants, and more.
- Packaging and Shipping: Cable ties are commonly used to secure packages and bundles for shipping, ensuring that items remain intact during transit. Metal cable ties or stainless steel zip ties are often preferred in these applications due to their tamper-resistant properties.
- Automotive and Industrial Applications: Cable ties are also extensively used in the automotive and industrial sectors for securing wires, hoses, and other components. Coloured cable ties can be used to colour-code different systems for easy identification.
How to Order Single and Reusable Cable Ties from RS
RS New Zealand (NZ) is a trusted supplier of a wide range of cable ties. From reusable zip ties to stainless steel cable ties, plastic cable ties, heavy-duty cable ties, coloured cable ties and more, you’ll find any type of tie for any application. Order cable ties from brands like ABB, Legrand, and HellermannTyton today.
To place an order online, browse our extensive catalogue and filter your desired cable type based on colour, material, length, width, tensile strength and more.
Delivery Information for New Zealand
RS Group offers fast delivery of all types of cable ties and other accessories. For more details on delivery services and fees, please refer to our Delivery Page.