Industrial Cable Ties Buyer’s Guide

Industrial cable ties, also called industrial zip ties, are crucial for attaching tags to slings or visually indicating inspection compliance. At Etched, we have years of experience supplying customers in the lifting and rigging, manufacturing, aerospace, and other industries with custom-printed industrial cable ties for their worksites. In this comprehensive buyer’s guide, our experts have compiled all the information you may need to know before placing your order.

What are the two types of cable ties?

There are two main uses for industrial zip ties: 1/16th-inch diameter cable ties used as a visual indicator of regulatory compliance and the time frame of the last inspection, and 1/8th-inch diameter cable ties typically used for attaching tags.

Color-coded inspection ties use different hex head colors to indicate the time frame of the last inspection, allowing workers and site stakeholders to easily see evidence of compliance and safety.

1/8th-inch cable ties can be a great solution if you are looking for a more efficient way to attach tags. Operators simply have to run the cable through a hole on the tag and through one side of the locking body for a secure attachment.

What are the different parts of an industrial zip tie?

Industrial zip ties have three parts: 

  1. The cable: made of galvanized or stainless steel, with two diameter options (1/8th inch or 1/16th inch)
  2. The locking body: a mechanism inside the hex head that is used to securely connect the ends of the cable. Industrial cable ties are one-way locking, meaning that once you loop the cable through the hex head, it can’t be pulled out and will remain securely fastened even under extreme conditions.
  3. The overmolded hex head: a colored plastic covering over the locking body. Hex heads have 6 sides, or facets, and custom information can be printed on each side. Different color options are available.

How do I specify my industrial cable tie order?

You’ll need to tell us which cable diameter you need, the hex head color(s), and any custom data you want printed on the hex head. 

Can I print custom information on my industrial zip ties?

Yes you can! The hex head has 6 sides, and approximately 6-10 characters can be printed on each side. Common data to print on your cable ties includes serial numbers, dates, company names, and contact information.

There are two options for printing on the hex head: hot stamps in white or black, or laser marking. Both printing types are durable and legible.

What are the specs for Etched industrial cable ties?

The pull strength for the 1/8th-inch cable is 1,100lbs, and the pull strength for the 1/16th-inch cable is 550 lbs. The body tensile strength for both diameters is 250 lbs, the length is 12 inches, and the temperature tolerance is from -40 to 320 degrees Fahrenheit.

How do I select an industrial zip tie supplier?

When partnering with a supplier, consider the following factors:

  • What color options do they offer?
  • What is their lead time?
  • Do they have expedited shipping options for urgent situations?
  • Do they have maximum or minimum order quantities?
  • What experience do they have with custom printing?
  • Can they send samples?

Want to learn more?

To learn more about our industrial cable tie solutions, visit this page or contact our experts.