Nylon and Vinyl Coated Steel Cable

What is nylon and vinyl-coated steel cable?

Nylon and vinyl-coated steel cable is a galvanized steel wire rope with a protective polymer coating applied over the outer strands. The coating adds a layer of corrosion resistance, abrasion protection, and in some cases an aesthetic finish, while the steel core retains the cable’s structural strength. Fehr Bros offers these cables in both 7×7 and 7×19 constructions across a range of diameter sizes.

What is the difference between nylon and vinyl-coated steel cables?

Both coatings protect the steel core from moisture, abrasion, and corrosion, but they differ in material properties. Vinyl (PVC) coatings are more flexible, offer good chemical resistance, and are commonly available in colors. Nylon coatings are harder and more abrasion-resistant, making them better suited for applications where the cable experiences frequent contact with surfaces or edges. The right choice depends on the application environment and mechanical demands.

How is vinyl-coated steel cable used?

Vinyl-coated steel cable is widely used in applications where corrosion protection and appearance matter. Common uses include security cable systems, clotheslines, railing infill, craft and display rigging, marine environments, and outdoor utility lines. Its flexibility and color availability also make it a practical option for visible installations where aesthetics are a factor.

How is nylon-coated steel cable used?

Nylon-coated steel cable is typically used in applications that require durability and abrasion resistance alongside corrosion protection. It is commonly found in garage door systems, fitness equipment cables, agricultural equipment, and industrial machinery, where the cable runs through guides or over pulleys and needs to resist surface wear.

Are nylon or vinyl-coated steel cables safe for overhead lifting?

Coated steel cables are generally not rated or recommended for overhead lifting applications. If you have a specific lifting application, contact Fehr Bros’ product specialists to determine the right product for your requirements.

What construction types are available for coated steel cable?

Fehr Bros offers coated steel cable in two standard constructions: 7×7 and 7×19. A 7×7 construction consists of 7 strands of 7 wires each, resulting in a stiffer cable with good strength for static or semi-flexible applications. A 7×19 construction has 7 strands of 19 wires each, producing a more flexible cable suited for applications involving movement, bending, or routing through pulleys.

What diameter sizes are available?

Fehr Bros’ nylon and vinyl-coated steel cables are available in a range of diameter sizes from 1/16 in to 7/16 in, with the coating increasing the nominal diameter of the core cable. Sizes include 1/16–3/32 in, 3/32–3/16 in, 1/8–3/16 in, 3/16–1/4 in, 1/4–5/16 in, and 3/8–7/16 in. The first measurement refers to the bare wire diameter and the second to the coated diameter.

What lengths are available, and can I order custom quantities?

Standard spool lengths include 100 ft, 250 ft, 500 ft, 1,000 ft, and 5,000 ft. For custom lengths, cut-to-order quantities, or large volume orders, you can submit an RFQ through Fehr.com or contact a product specialist directly.

Is the steel core galvanized before the coating is applied?

Yes. Fehr Bros’ coated cables use hot-dip galvanized steel as the core, which provides a base layer of corrosion protection before the nylon or vinyl coating is applied. This two-layer protection makes these cables suitable for outdoor, humid, or marine-adjacent environments where rust resistance is a priority.

How can I order nylon and vinyl-coated steel cables?

To place an order, create an account on fehr.com, add your desired products to your cart, and proceed to checkout. For assistance with your order or to discuss custom quantities, contact Fehr Bros’ team.