High tension cables are usually adept at handling massive loads. However, these cables may break or suffer other damages during an important job. To remedy this, cable friction tape works up to a point. But to ensure such unfortunate occurrences don’t take place, contractors should go for high-quality cable lubricants. These accessories are excellent investments in any project involving cables. 

 

 

Here are four tips to select the optimum cable lubricant

 

For Vertical Feeds

 

Liquid lubricants are less viscous in nature and behave like water. A single drop will slide down the cable's pathway and make its application quick and convenient. However, this trait makes it mostly compatible with only vertical feeds. You'll have trouble using liquid lubricants for overhead applications because they tend to drip. In such situations, you'll want to use an alternative lubricant.

 

For Overhead Pulls

 

A balance of viscosity and liquidity makes gel a great lubricant for overhead pulls. Plus, gels bear high pulling force loads exceptionally well and don't drip in the process. Unlike liquid lubricants, gels maintain their density for a longer time. With this in mind, we highly recommend using cable installation accessories such as the Polywater CGL Communications Gel Pulling Lubricant from AMAC Equipment, for slow, high-pull force applications. 

 

For Rapid Cable Pulls

 

Cable friction tapes protect cables from dangerous burns and splits. However, friction tape can cause damages due to the high amount of heat that builds up from quick pulls. Fortunately, wax lubricants do an exceptional job of cooling down the heat even during the harshest and the most rapid cable pulls. Wax cable lubricants are a brilliant option because they behave like gels, but don't have the same viscosity. In addition, they also do not drip and can handle high pull forces.

 

Consider Site Policies 

 

Liquids, gels, and waxes are suitable cable lubricants that you can use in hundreds of cable installation applications. However, site and environmental restrictions might ban particular lubricants. For example, silicone gel lubricants can cause trouble in cable installation zones with an ongoing painting operation. Hence, it is vital to keep this in mind before starting a pulling operation. 

 

You can always count on us at AMAC Equipment to provide you with the best cable lubricants. Contact us today to learn more about our products and services!