Q: What is the difference between your rotary and non-rotary Safe-T-Cable tool?
A: The most popular hand operated tool is the SCTR Series adjustable tension (rotary) tool. This tool uses a rotary tension mechanism to apply tension to the cable that meets the flex limits of AS4536. The SCT Series (non-rotary) tool applies a pre-set tension to the cable. Multiple actuations of the handle are required to draw the cable in and apply tension that meets the flex limits of AS4536.
Q: Is there a Safe-T-Cable nose size that is more often used?
A: The size of nose depends on the users application. We offer noses in the following sizes: 3″,5″,7″ inches.
Q: Where do I use elongated ferrules?
A: Fasteners that have limited clearance between the safety wire hole (less than .100″) and the surface of the component to which the fastener is attached. The longer reach of the ferrule will assist with installations on low profile fasterners or hard to reach locations.
Q: What specification controls the installation of safe-t-cable?
A: NASM33540: is the primary Standard which controls the selection, use, and installation of Safety Wire, Safety Cable, and other Safety devices for threaded fasteners. NASM33540 is adopted for use by DoD, and is listed in the Department of Defense Index of Standards & Specifications (DODISS)
Q: Can I use a .040” nose/indenter on the safe-t-cable tool to crimp a .032” ferrule and cable?
A: The reason that we supply separate tools/noses for the two diameters is the placement of the cable exit hole, and the difference in the cutting function of the tool for the two diameters. When the tool mechanism moves the ferrule/cable as it reshapes the ferrule to hold the cable, it moves the tensioned cable past a cutting edge, which is the edge of the exit hole. The timing is critical to the operation and tensioning capability of the tool. Our Engineering Team placed the hole in very slightly different locations in the .032 tool/nose, as compared to the .040 model.
Q: How many bolts can be secured with safe-t-cable?
A: Per AS567, Unless otherwise specified in the application engineering drawing, safety cable shall be installed in two or three bolt patterns, with two bolt patterns being the preferred method when safety cable is applied to an even number of fasteners
Q: How to I properly thread the cable through the fasteners?
A: Safety-cable is to be installed in such a manner that any tendency for a fastener to loosen will be counteracted by an additional tension on the cable. The recommended practice for installation is to avoid sharp turns (in excess of 135 degrees), as the cable is or neutral pull.threaded through the fasteners. This will produce installed safety cable with either positive
Q: Can Safe-T-Cable and ferrules be reused?
A: Per NASM33540: Safety cables and safety cable ferrules shall be new upon each application. Reuse is not acceptable
Q: Is excess cable allowed once the ferrule has been terminated?
A: After installing the safety-cable, excess cable from the crimped ferrule shall be cut off. The maximum allowable length of cable extending beyond the ferrule shall be 0.031 in. (0.79mm).
Q: How much tension should be applied to safe-t-cable?
A: The function of safety wire or safety cable is to stop the unintentional rotation of a fastener, should it become loose. It is not intended to add torque to the fastener. Both the pre-set and rotary tool have a pre-set amount of tension. Depending on the operator’s alignment of the ferrule to the fastener, there will be anything from 0 to 4 pounds (average) tension on a .032 diameter Safe-T-Cable when it is correctly installed.
Q: Is there a cross reference for hole diameter vs cable diameter?
A:
| Safety Cable Diameter (in) | Safety Cable Diameter (mm) | Recommended Hole Diameter (in) /1/ /2/ /3/ | Recommended Hole Diameter |
| .022-.026 | 0.56 – 0.66 | .037-.060 | 0.94 – 1.53 |
| .032-.038 | 0.81 – 0.97 | .060-.080 | 1.53 – 2.03 |
| .040-.046 | 1.02 – 1.17 | .070-.090 | 1.70 – 2.28 |
| .062-.072 | 1.57 – 1.83 | .080-.120 | 2.03 – 3.04 |
Q: What diameters are available for Safe-T-Cable?
A: .022″, .032″, .040″, .062″. More more information click here
Q: What is the tensile of the various Safe-T-Cable sizes?
A: .022= 30lb min, .032= 70lb min, .040= 110lb min, .062= 280lb min