In addition to stocking a great range of cable ties, we also sell a great range of professional quality cable tie installation and tensioning tools, that every professional should be using. When using a cable tie installation tool, you will be able to install the cable ties to a desired and consistent tension, but additionally to be able to cut the excess cable tie off safely.
Realistically, there aren't any other tools that handle both the tensioning and cutting with such precision and ease, as a purpose-built installation tool does.
Side cutters typically cannot cut the ties as flush as the cable tie tools can, and if you aren't tensioning the cable tie at the same time, the cut part is exposed more as it's not being pulled in to the head of the cable tie as the tension is released.
And even though people commonly use scissors when cutting cable ties at home, this will damage the scissors very quickly, and potentially be a safety hazard if you were to cut into something else such as an electrical wire.
Professional tools, professional results
When a cable tie installation tool is used on the other hand, this is very easy as the tools handle both the cutting and tensioning at the same time.
This results in a neat, flush (and most importantly safe) cutting of the cable tie, that is tensioned exactly the way you want it. When using enough tensioning force, the end of the cut cable tie also typically retracts slightly into the head of the cable tie, when the tensioning force is released as the cable tie is cut.
If you frequently install cable ties, you will also be able to save a lot of time by using an installation tool. Additionally, as the tensioning and cutting is done by using a lever, this will reduce the likelihood of strains or injuries from repetitive work.
Which cable tie tool should I use?
There are three key considerations which to take into account, when choosing a cable tie installation tool.
Are the cable ties made from plastic, or from metal?
The most important thing is to choose the correct tool for the correct material. Stainless steel cable ties are cut with a different type of a tool, than the plastic cable ties are.
Do you prefer an automatic cable tie tool, or a manual one?
There are commonly two types of tools: Automatic ones, where the cutting action is done automatically by the same lever, or manual ones; where the cutting lever is separate. You are typically able to operate the automatic type of tools with one hand, where as with the manual tools you need to use both hands so you can do both the tensioning and cutting as required.
What is the width of the cable ties?
Finally, the width of the cable tie needs to be suitable for the tool. Commonly, the automatic installation tools are suitable for smaller and standard widths, and the manual installation tools can be be used on thicker cable ties - as well as all the smaller sizes. You are able to check which width the cable tie is suitable for on the product pages.
Got questions? We're happy to help!
If you would like more guidance on which tool to use, please get in touch with us by email and we'll be glad to help: info@kabelbinders.com
