How To Tie Steel Wire Cable

Steel wire rope was used to build some of the most famous bridges in the world, including the Brooklyn Bridge in 1855. Steel wire rope is made from steel wires wound on a fiber core. The type of core and the size of the rope determine the strength and flexibility, although steel wire cables are mostly known for their strength. You can tie steel wire together or fasten it by creating a knot or using cable clamps.

Step 1

Select your steel wire rope. The strength, durability and flexibility of the rope depends on the size and thickness of the rope and which material it is made from. For example, steel-core ropes are used for jobs requiring extra strength, whereas fiber-core wire ropes are used for jobs requiring extra flexibility. Steel wire rope is less resistant and flexible, but is strong, which is ideal for most farming applications.

Step 2

Lay out the steel rope and pay attention to the direction it is pointing. If it appears to be directing toward the right-hand side or in a clockwise direction, it should be coiled and uncoiled in this direction.

Step 3

Tie a hitch or a basic knot into the rope to fasten it temporarily. Tie a square knot to tie two ropes or cords together.

Step 4

Place a tapered metal or wood rod through the center of the knot and pull the knot tight. The rod helps the knot stay tightened. When the rod is removed, you can untie the knot without difficulty.

Step 5

Fasten the knot permanently with a steel cable clamp. Use a wrench to loosen the hex nuts on the clamp and slide the u-bolt out of the clamp saddle and place it onto the dead end of the wire rope.

Step 6

Insert the saddle back onto the U-bolt. Thread the hex nuts to tighten the grasp of the U-bolt over the steel wires. Tighten the hex nuts with a wrench to keep the clamp securely in place.