Cable Ties
Cable ties, or zip ties, offer convenient and high-speed solutions to many strapping applications. These very inexpensive and easy-to-install tools come in a variety of sizes and can be used in multiple ways to secure wiring, mounting, or other items together. The very strength of a properly installed zip tie is virtually unmatched. They can be the simplest, fastest, and most cost-effective means of creating some order out of what can sometimes be a chaotic-looking space filled with various wiring and cables.
Besides the basic nylon cable ties, there are also those made of stainless steel, which are ideal for high-temperature or corrosive surroundings. Reusable versions can be adjusted and used many times over, while tamper-proof ties offer that added degree of security by preventing unauthorized access. These ties can be used with all sorts of wiring and cabling in a variety of settings. In other words, they're great to have on hand if you need to bundle some cables and wires together.
FAQs
What brands and types of cable ties are best for an office application?
For office applications, brands like Panduit, 3M, and Ilsco offer the best types of cable ties, including reusable Velcro ties, low-profile nylon ties, and adjustable mounts, ensuring easy and flexible cable management.
Tips for Exceptional Wire Management
Be consistent.
This is one of the most overlooked aspects of great wire management. Consistency should apply to everything including the length of wire that is being used, the bend radius of the wire, the wire placement within the bundles and the label positions.
Don't always take the shortest path.
When routing wires and trying to achieve a clean and organized look, it is important to not always take the shortest route to land the wires. For example, when wiring hardware on the door of an electrical enclosure it is important to consider all of the wires that are going to be at that location and bundle these wires whenever possible. Instead of just running the wires directly to the place that they need to be connected, route the wires in a way that will pass other devices or connection points near the wire and pick up any other wires along the way that are related to those other connection points.
Wire tie everything that is not concealed.
When wiring in a control panel, the wires are often concealed by the wire ducting. However, there are times when wires are not concealed and are difficult to control in such a way that will result in a clean and organized look. To assist with this problem, it is important to use wire ties and wire tie anchors. Make sure that the same size wire tie and the same color is used throughout the install process.