Aircraft & Wire Rope Cable
Our extensive inventory of quality products makes it easy to find the ideal wire rope for your application. Whether for industrial use or specialized projects, our wire rope and aircraft cable products deliver the reliability and durability you need.
Wire Rope & Aircraft Cable Applications
- Construction
- Marine
- Aerospace
- Manufacturing
- Transportation
- Aircraft
Wire rope is specified by the number of strands, the number of wires in each strand, and the material of the core. For example, “6×7 FC” indicates a rope with six strands, each containing seven wires, and a fiber core. Common core designations include FC (fiber core), IWRC (independent wire rope core), WSC (wire strand core), and PC (poly core).
Details on our most common sizes are below.
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Wire Rope Cable
Wire rope is technically defined as multiple wire strands laid geometrically around a core. It is also a general term encompassing various product families such as aircraft cable, coated aircraft cable, general-purpose wire rope, strand, rotation-resistant wire rope, compacted/swaged wire rope, and cable-laid wire rope.
Galvanized Wire Rope
Wire rope can be galvanized using three processes: electro-galvanizing, hot-dip galvanizing, and drawn-galvanizing, listed from least to most corrosion-resistant. Drawn-galvanized wire rope not only offers the highest corrosion resistance but also maintains the same breaking strength as bright wire rope. In contrast, electro-galvanized and hot-dip galvanized wire ropes have approximately 10% lower breaking strengths.
Wire Rope Lubrication
Wire rope lubrication involves both the core and the outer strands. IWRC wire rope always has a lubricated core unless specified otherwise. Bright wire rope always has lubricated outer strands. Galvanized wire rope can be manufactured with either a dry finish or lubricated outer strands. Typically, stainless steel wire rope is made with a lubricated IWRC and dry finish outer strands.
Material Options for Wire Rope Cable
Galvanized Steel
- Hot-dipped galvanized for stronger corrosion resistance
- Ideal for general outdoor use
- More durable than electro-galvanized versions
Stainless Steel (304 / 316)
- 304: Corrosion-resistant and versatile
- 316: Marine-grade, ideal for coastal and high-salt environments
- Aesthetic finish and long-term weather resistance
All of our wire rope and wire rope assemblies have custom options available. Contact our experts to help with your project today!
Steel Cable Sizes
1/16" Wire Rope
Our 1/16" wire rope is a versatile solution for small-scale and light-duty applications that require high flexibility without sacrificing strength. Despite its slender size, this cable is engineered for dependable performance across various industries.
Key Specifications
| Property | Specification |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 1/16" (0.0625") |
| Construction | 7x7, 7x19 |
| Material | Galvanized Steel, Stainless Steel (304 / 316) |
| Coating Options | Bare, PVC-Coated |
| Core Type | IWRC (Independent Wire Rope Core) or Fiber Core |
| Breaking Strength | Up to 480 lbs |
| Weight | Approx. 0.02 lbs/ft |
Performance & Safety Considerations:
Although small, 1/16" wire rope still requires proper handling. Never exceed the working load limit, and always apply a safety factor suitable for your application.
⚠️ Note: This cable is not designed for lifting or aircraft use.
1/8" Wire Rope
If you're looking for a lightweight yet durable cable, our 1/8" wire rope is the ideal solution. Perfect for a wide range of applications, it offers high tensile strength in a compact form. Available in various constructions and materials, our 1/8" cable is engineered for reliability and longevity.
Key Specifications
| Property | Specification |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 1/8" (0.125") |
| Construction | 7x7, 7x19 |
| Material | Galvanized Steel, Stainless Steel (304 / 316) |
| Coating Options | Bare, PVC-Coated |
| Core Type | IWRC (Independent Wire Rope Core) or Fiber Core |
| Breaking Strength | Varies by construction – up to 4,200 lbs |
| Weight | Approx. 0.05 lbs/ft |
Performance & Safety Considerations: While 1/8" wire rope is incredibly strong for its size, it should not be used for lifting or aircraft control unless specified. Always apply the appropriate safety factor (e.g., 5:1) to the working load limit.
⚠️ Note: This is commercial-grade aircraft cable and not rated for use in actual aircraft or overhead lifting without proper certification.
3/16" Wire Rope
Our 3/16" wire rope is a versatile, durable solution engineered for performance across a wide range of applications—from marine and industrial environments to construction and recreational use. Available in multiple configurations and finishes, our 3/16” cable offers both strength and flexibility, making it a trusted choice in commercial and light-duty settings.
Key Specifications
| Property | Specification |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 3/16" (0.1875") |
| Construction | 7x7, 7x19, or 1x19 |
| Material | Galvanized Steel, Stainless Steel (304 / 316) |
| Coating Options | Bare, PVC-Coated |
| Core Type | IWRC (Independent Wire Rope Core) or Fiber Core |
| Breaking Strength | Varies by construction – up to 4,200 lbs |
| Weight | Approx. 0.12 lbs/ft (varies slightly by type) |
| Custom Options | Custom lengths, fittings, and coatings available. |
⚠️ Note: This is commercial-grade aircraft cable, not rated for aircraft use or overhead lifting unless specified. Not MIL-SPEC.
1/4" Wire Rope
Our 1/4" wire rope delivers exceptional performance in strength-critical applications. Built for rugged environments and engineered to last, this is a go-to solution for contractors, industrial users, and anyone needing reliable cable for heavier loads.
Key Specifications
| Property | Specification |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 1/4" (0.25") |
| Construction | 6x19, 7x19, 6x36 |
| Material | Galvanized Steel, Stainless Steel (304 / 316) |
| Coating Options | Bare, PVC-Coated |
| Core Type | IWRC (Independent Wire Rope Core) or Fiber Core |
| Breaking Strength | Up to 7,000 lbs |
| Weight | Approx. 0.15 lbs/ft |
Performance & Safety Considerations: Always apply a proper safety factor (typically 5:1 or 6:1) when calculating working loads.
⚠️ Note: This cable is not rated for aircraft use or overhead lifting unless specified.
5/16" Wire Rope
Our 5/16" wire rope is a robust and reliable choice for medium to heavy-duty tasks. Designed for superior performance in harsh environments, this cable offers excellent tensile strength, durability, and flexibility.
Key Specifications
| Property | Specification |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 5/16" (0.3125") |
| Construction | 7x7, 7x19 |
| Material | Galvanized Steel, Stainless Steel (304 / 316) |
| Coating Options | Bare, PVC-Coated |
| Core Type | IWRC (Independent Wire Rope Core) or Fiber Core |
| Breaking Strength | Varies by construction – up to 9,800 lbs |
| Weight | Approx. 0.22 lbs/ft |
Performance & Safety Considerations:
While 1/8" wire rope is incredibly strong for its size, it should not be used for lifting or aircraft control unless specified. Always apply the appropriate safety factor (e.g., 5:1) to the working load limit.
⚠️ Note: This is commercial-grade aircraft cable and not rated for use in actual aircraft or overhead lifting without proper certification.
3/8" Wire Rope
Our 3/8" wire rope offers a strong, dependable solution for lifting, pulling, and securing heavy loads. Whether for industrial, construction, or marine use, this cable is built for resilience and long-term performance.
Key Specifications
| Property | Specification |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 3/8" (0.375") |
| Construction | 6x19, 6x36 |
| Material | Galvanized Steel, Stainless Steel (304 / 316) |
| Coating Options | Bare, PVC-Coated |
| Core Type | IWRC (Independent Wire Rope Core) or Fiber Core |
| Breaking Strength | Up to 14,400 lbs |
| Weight | Approx. 0.38 lbs/ft |
Performance & Safety Considerations:
Follow recommended safety factors when calculating working loads.
⚠️ Note: This product is not intended for aircraft use or overhead lifting unless rated and certified.
1/2" Wire Rope
Our 1/2" wire rope is built for strength, endurance, and reliability in demanding, high-load applications. With high tensile capacity and excellent abrasion resistance, it’s the ideal choice for everything from cranes to marine and construction projects.
Key Specifications
| Property | Specification |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 1/2" (0.5") |
| Construction | 6x19, 6x36, 7x19 |
| Material | Galvanized Steel, Stainless Steel (304 / 316) |
| Coating Options | Bare, PVC-Coated |
| Core Type | IWRC (Independent Wire Rope Core) or Fiber Core |
| Breaking Strength | Up to 26,600 lbs |
| Weight | Approx. 0.65 lbs/ft |
Performance & Safety Considerations:
Always use an appropriate safety factor (commonly 5:1) for lifting or load-bearing applications.
⚠️ Note: This wire rope is not certified for aircraft use unless specifically noted.
5/8" Wire Rope
Our 5/8" wire rope is designed for maximum performance in the most demanding industrial, marine, and lifting applications. With high tensile strength and superior durability, this cable is ideal for projects that require serious load-bearing capabilities.
Key Specifications
| Property | Specification |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 5/8" (0.625") |
| Construction | 6x19, 6x36 |
| Material | Galvanized Steel, Stainless Steel (304 / 316) |
| Coating Options | Bare, PVC-Coated |
| Core Type | IWRC (Independent Wire Rope Core) or Fiber Core |
| Breaking Strength | Up to 36,000 lbs |
| Weight | Approx. 1.13 lbs/ft |
Performance & Safety Considerations:
Use only with proper safety factors for the load and environment.
⚠️ Note: This product is not intended for aircraft use and should be installed by trained professionals for high-load applications.
Aircraft Cables
Aircraft Cable Materials
Commercial quality "aircraft grade" cable is made from galvanized steel wire or stainless steel wire.
Stainless Steel Aircraft Cable
Our stainless-steel aircraft cable consists of thin steel wires that are stranded together to give the cable a combination of flexibility and strength. Although the largest diameter of aircraft cable available at Tyler Madison maxes out at a ¼”, it is lightweight and strong enough to meet special airline safety standards.
Galvanized Aircraft Cable
Galvanized aircraft cable provides high tensile strength and adequate corrosion resistance for most commercial applications. Stainless steel avionics cable provides slightly lower tensile strength, but greater resistance to corrosion. We also offer aircraft cable fitting services.
Aircraft Cable Fabrication
Cable or wire rope is fabricated from individual wires put together in a uniform helical arrangement to form what is called a strand. A strand typically contains 7 wires (1 x 7) or 19 wires (1 x 19), although others are available. Cable or wire rope contains a varying number of these strands such as 7 x 7 and 7 x 19 (number of strands x wire per strand). The more strands and more wires per strand, the more flexible the cable and the higher the cost. The greater the cable diameter, the greater the diameter of each wire and the greater the breaking strength.
Aircraft Cable Available Coatings
Our aircraft cable for sale can be coated with a number of different plastics such as vinyl (PVC) or nylon in various colors. Black, clear and white are typical stock colors, other colors can be ordered. Also, other polymers are available for braided steel cable.
Military Specifications-Cable also available to Mil-W-83420.
Aircraft Cable Applications
Airplane cable is used for more than just aircraft applications. It’s strength and flexibility make aircraft braided steel cable perfect for numerous commercial and industrial uses. Stainless steel aircraft cable is typically used in areas where the components are exposed to oxidative chemicals such as salt, and the ability to resist corrosion is crucial. Galvanized aircraft cable is a more affordable solution, but it does not resist corrosion as well.
The Difference Between Wire Rope & Aircraft Cable
Aircraft cable doesn't strictly fit the definition of wire rope as it lacks an independent core. Instead, it has a strand core, where the center is one of the strands laid with the outer strand layers. Aircraft cable is available in diameters of 3/8" or less, with breaking strengths comparable to equal diameter independent wire rope core (IWRC), and comes in stainless steel and galvanized steel options.
About Us
At Tyler Madison Inc., aircraft cable assemblies are just one of the many quality wire rope products that we manufacture for our industrial and commercial customers. We have the ability to create fully customized cable assemblies with standard or custom aircraft cable fittings. With skilled labor and precise advanced equipment, we are able to manufacture quality aircraft wire ropes and high-strength cables at an affordable price. Along the way, we can help you design and engineer aircraft cable fittings for your application. If you have an idea of what kind of aviation cable assembly or wire rope you need, but aren't sure how to make it a reality, just contact Tyler Madison today and we will be ready to help!
Value Added Services
We are committed to providing our customers maximum value when they choose to do business with us, whether it's custom aircraft cables, metal cables or standard braided steel cable. That’s why we go above and beyond with our customer service and offer value-added services to ensure the quality of our products and the satisfaction of our customers. These services include:
- Design Assistance
- Coiling and Packaging
- Hot stamping part numbers
- Pull testing for cable strength
- Fuse Cutting
- Cable Rewinding
- Lean Manufacturing
- Kitting
- Just-in-time (JIT) Programs
- Kanban Programs
No matter how customized the cable, wire rope or aircraft cable fittings for your application needs to be, we are more than capable of helping you get the job done!