Cable Ties

Cable ties are common low-cost consumables in workshops, offices and on construction sites and can also be known as wire ties, zip ties or hose ties. They are used to secure, fasten and separate cables and wires for the purposes of safety, identification and organisation. Cable ties can come in different colours, materials, lengths and widths depending on the requirements for the application, making them an ideal 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. However, ties reused in this way will be weaker than new ones.

At RS Components, we have a wide range of cable ties suitable for a multitude of applications, industries and environments. 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 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. The teeth of the cable tie catches, 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 to give a tidier look. This loose part of the tie may have to be cut for health & safety purposes, so be sure to know the rules & regulations of your workspace.

What type of cable tie should I use?

• 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: generally more expensive than those for single use. 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. They will still stretch and break over time, but are able to provide more than one use.

What are cable ties used for?

There are endless uses for cable ties. Generally, they are used to tie cables and wires together for organisation and identification, but other uses can include training plants, securing zips, identifying keys, securing loose items when transporting, and many more.