Author: Al Hickson

What Is Music Wire?

Posted on by Al Hickson

Inside of a pianoThe term “music wire” must seem an odd term when it comes to steel products. The name is derived from only one of its many possible uses (namely, piano strings), but in fact, music wire is a versatile and affordable type of steel wire that is useful in a number of different high-stress applications.

HOW IT’S MADE

Music wire is made from steel with a high carbon content, which serves to strengthen and harden the steel. The steel is pulled through a die to form a thin wire (a process called “cold drawing” since it is done at room temperature), then heat-tempered to patent specifications. The end product is a wire that can endure high amounts of tension and stress repeatedly without losing its strength or elasticity.

WHY IT’S USEFUL

Let’s think about music wire again in its original context: piano strings. (Sometimes it’s even called piano wire.) The strings on a piano are stretched across a cast iron frame and stretched to an insane amount of tension. Then they are struck repeatedly with hammers attached to the piano keys to make sound. Yet, under normal circumstances, the piano strings will stay in tune for long periods of time. This is a good example of why music wire is useful: it can basically take a beating under huge amounts of stress without losing its consistency

WHAT IT’S USED FOR

Because of its tensile properties, music wire can be used for a wide number of personal, commercial and industrial purposes. Aside from its use in pianos, this wire is most frequently bent into springs for high-tension applications because it can bear repeated heavy loads. (For example, music wire is often used in spring-loaded windows.) It is also used for fishing lures, cheese slicers, crafts and hobbies, surgical tools, and so on. For pretty much anything that requires a steel wire able to endure repeated loads and high stress, music wire is an excellent choice.

LIMITATIONS

While music wire is highly versatile, it is not indestructible. It can endure heavy loads, but it can give way under “shock” loads—that is, sudden, high-impact levels of stress. Also, temperature extremes can affect its ability to perform, so it isn’t recommended in situations of extreme heat or cold. However, its ability to remain strong under stress makes music wire a great all-around choice.

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8 Common Uses for Aircraft Cable

Posted on by Al Hickson

Airplane tail with cablesThin, flexible and exceedingly strong, aircraft cable is one of the most useful types of steel cables available. It consists of thin steel wires that have been stranded together (usually between 8 and 28 strands altogether), giving the cable a fantastic blend of flexibility and strength. While usually no thicker than ¼ inch in diameter, aircraft cable is strong enough to secure an airplane in place (hence the name).

But aircraft cable isn’t just for aircraft; it comes in a variety of thicknesses and can serve a variety of personal, commercial, industrial and military purposes. Stainless steel aircraft cable is typically used in more strenuous applications because of its ability to withstand harsher temperatures and its resistance to corrosion. Galvanized steel cable is more affordable and nearly as strong, but it’s recommended for milder environments. Here are eight of the more common uses for aircraft cable:

Aircraft Control

Stainless steel cable is commonly used for securing and controlling aircraft (for example, during shipping and transport).

Securing Cargo

Aircraft cable is useful for tying down heavy cargo on ships. Again, stainless steel is recommended for this heavy-duty application because of exposure to the elements and salt water.

Boat Docks and Maritime Applications

Stainless steel aircraft cable is recommended for several uses with boats and docking, from securing boats to hoisting them out of the water. It is also useful for sailboat rigging, fishing boats, etc.

Pulleys and Winches

The strength of this cable makes it very useful for lifting and hoisting, so it is commonly used in winches and pulleys of different sizes and types. Depending on the particular context, both stainless steel and galvanized steel can be used.

Stage Rigging

Most live theaters are equipped with a series of rigging to open, close and lift heavy curtains, move backdrops, suspend, raise and lower lighting, and so on. Galvanized aircraft cable is perfect for most of these applications.

Zip Lines

Zip lines are increasingly used for amusement and recreation, and aircraft cable is sturdy enough to handle the weight and the activity. Both galvanized and stainless steel are used for these, depending on location and weather conditions.

Garage Doors

Because of its strength, aircraft cable is often found in garage door raising/lowering mechanisms (either galvanized or stainless steel).

Exercise Equipment

Aircraft cable (either galvanized or stainless) is quite useful in all types of exercise equipment, most commonly with weight machines.

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