2024-07-13
Stainless steel cable ties differ a bit from their nylon counterparts in terms of use. Here's a rundown:
Using the Tie:
Prepare the cable tie: Unlike nylon ties, stainless steel cable ties are smooth and can be difficult to grip by hand.
Thread the tail: Feed the thin end (tail) of the tie through the head (the wider end with the locking mechanism).
Tighten: Gently pull the tail to tighten the loop around the objects you're securing. The tie has a self-locking mechanism that grips the tail as you pull.
Secure the tightness (optional): For extra tightness, you can use pliers to grip the tail and pull firmly.
Cutting the Excess (optional):
Tool recommended: Stainless steel cable ties are too tough for regular scissors. It's recommended to use a dedicated stainless steel cable tie tension tool for cutting.
Alternative method: If you only have a few ties to cut, tin snips or strong pliers can work too. Be cautious of the sharp edges after cutting.
Reusability:
Stainless steel cable ties are generally not reusable due to the one-way locking mechanism. However, some people manage to finagle them loose by inserting another tie's end or the excess part of the same tie into the head mechanism. This can be tricky and isn't guaranteed.