Wire Rope Specifications
We stock a wide range of steel cable sizes up to 3/8″ in diameter, with custom solutions available for larger sizes upon request. Whether you’re looking for strength, flexibility, or corrosion resistance, we have you covered!
Material Options
All of our wire rope is offered in both Galvanized Steel and Stainless Steel (304 & 316)
- Stainless Steel
- 304: Corrosion-resistant for general use
- 316: Ideal for marine, food-grade, or high-moisture environments
- Stainless steel is ideal for marine or corrosive environments
- Galvanized Steel
- Zinc-coated to resist corrosion
- Reliable, cost-effective choice for general-purpose use
- Provides a balance of strength and affordability
Each material offers slightly different breaking strengths, with galvanized cables typically offering marginally higher tensile strength, and stainless steel providing longer lifespan in corrosive environments.
Core Types
- Choose from IWRC (Independent Wire Rope Core) for maximum strength
- Fiber Core for added flexibility and ease of handling
Safety Reminder
Performance & Safety Considerations: Always match cable size and construction to your load requirements. A general rule of thumb: apply a 5:1 or 6:1 safety factor to the minimum breaking strength. Typically 5:1—for lifting or load-bearing applications.
⚠️ Note: Wire rope is not certified for aircraft use unless specifically stated
Need Something Else?
If you require a diameter or specification not listed here, we’re happy to help. Our team can source or customize a cable solution to meet your exact needs.
Common FAQs
What are the benefits of coated cable?
Coating adds durability and makes handling safer.
How do you choose the right cable size?
All wire rope sizes, specs, and recommended uses are listed below.
All wire rope sizes, specs, and recommended uses are listed below.
What’s the difference between 7×7 and 7×19 construction?
7×7 is stiffer and holds shape well. 7×19 is more flexible, which is better for pulleys and dynamic movement.
Wire Rope Cable Sizes
3/64″ Wire Rope
Our 3/64″ wire rope is a miniature yet durable cable designed for small-scale applications where precision and flexibility are essential. Despite its size, this cable is strong, corrosion-resistant, and ideal for use in electronics, signage, and instrumentation.
Key Specifications
| Property | Specification |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 3/64″ (0.0469″) |
| Construction | 7×7 |
| Length | custom length available |
| Coating Options | Bare, Nylon or PVC-Coated |
| Breaking Strength | Up to 270 lbs |
| Weight | Approx. 0.01 lbs/ft |
FAQs
What’s the best use for 3/64″ cable?
It’s perfect for fine-detail applications like signage, light displays, or instruments.
Can it be coated?
Yes—nylon or PVC coating adds durability and makes handling safer.
Is it flexible enough for tight routing?
Absolutely—its 7×7 construction balances strength and flexibility.
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 | 7×7, 7×19 |
| 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.
⚠️ Note: This cable is not designed for lifting or aircraft use.
FAQs
What is 1/16″ cable used for?
1/16″ wire rope is commonly used for light-duty applications that require flexibility, precision, and a compact size. Typical uses include picture hanging, signage support, bird deterrent systems, decorative railings, instrumentation, and small tethering systems. Its fine diameter makes it ideal for projects where space is limited or a minimal visual footprint is desired.
Can it be used indoors and outdoors?
Yes, especially when using galvanized or stainless steel with a protective coating.
Is 1/16″ cable strong enough for tension structures?
Yes, for small-scale or decorative tensioning—confirm loads with our team first.
What is the working load limit?
A 5:1 safety factor is often recommended, meaning the working load limit is around 96 lbs for a 1/16″ cable.
Do you offer crimped end fittings for this size?
Absolutely—we offer swaged or hand-crimped ends in a range of configurations.
3/32″ Wire Rope
Our 3/32″ wire rope provides the ideal balance of flexibility and strength in a small-diameter format. It’s commonly used in architectural, industrial, and marine applications where reliability and corrosion resistance are key.
Key Specifications
| Property | Specification |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 3/32″ (0.09375″) |
| Construction | 7×7, 7×19 |
| 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 1,000 lbs |
| Weight | Approx. 0.03 lbs/ft |
FAQs
What is 3/32″ cable used for?
3/32″ wire rope is commonly used for light-duty applications that require a balance of flexibility and strength. It’s often found in cable railing systems, hanging signs or lights, shade sail supports, and small tethering setups. Thanks to its compact size and durable construction, it’s also ideal for zip lines, canopy supports, and decorative architectural projects. Available in both galvanized and stainless steel, 3/32″ cable performs well indoors and outdoors, especially when coated for added protection.
Can this cable be used for cable railings?
Yes—it’s a popular size for residential and commercial railing systems.
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 | 7×7, 7×19 |
| Coating Options | Bare, PVC-Coated |
| 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.
FAQs
What are common uses of 1/8″ wire rope?
- Cable Railings – clean, minimalist infill for decks and stairs
- Security Systems – gates, barrier cables, secure enclosures
- Display & Sign Hanging – galleries, retail, and signage
- Light Rigging – stage lighting, pulley systems, motion control
- Recreational Gear – dog runs, fencing, hanging chairs
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 | 7×7, 7×19, or 1×19 |
| 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 (7×19) |
| Weight | Approx. 0.12 lbs/ft (varies slightly by type) |
| Custom Options | Custom lengths, fittings, and coatings available. |
⚠️ Note: Not MIL-SPEC.
FAQs
What is 3/16″ cable used for?
Our 3/16″ cable is a compact yet high-strength option, ideal for:
- Marine Rigging – lifelines, safety lines, deck cables
- Theatrical & Stage Applications – suspension of lighting, scenery, or rigging components
- Construction & Industrial Use – pulley systems, control cables, guides, or lashing
- Recreational Equipment – zip lines, dog runs, fencing, cable railings
- Garage & Overhead Doors – torsion spring cable replacements
This size balances strength and flexibility, making it perfect for light to medium-duty tasks.
Can I use 3/16″ wire rope outdoors?
Yes! Galvanized is great for general outdoor use. For marine or corrosive environments, go with stainless steel (304 or 316).
Is PVC-coated wire rope available in 3/16″?
Yes! We offer a variety of PVC or nylon-coated options to enhance wear resistance, visibility, and protection.
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 | 6×19, 7×19, 6×36 |
| Coating Options | Bare, PVC-Coated |
| Breaking Strength | Up to 7,000 lbs |
| Weight | Approx. 0.15 lbs/ft |
FAQs
What is 1/4″ wire rope used for?
1/4″ wire rope is a heavy-duty cable used for construction hoisting, winch lines, logging and rigging, security cables, and marine applications. It’s strong enough for demanding jobs yet still flexible for practical handling and installation.
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 | 7×7, 7×19 |
| 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.
FAQs
What is 5/16″ wire rope used for?
5/16″ wire rope is commonly used in winch systems, tow cables, industrial rigging, overhead cranes, and marine mooring lines. It’s a strong, versatile option for medium-to-heavy-duty applications where reliability and durability are essential.
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 | 6×19, 6×36 |
| 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 |
FAQs
What is 3/8″ wire rope used for?
3/8″ wire rope is ideal for heavy-duty rigging, hoisting, support cables, construction anchoring, and marine applications. It offers a strong load capacity while still being flexible enough for practical handling.