Top Reasons Why Push-Pull Assemblies Need Quality Cable Casing

Push-pull assemblies are used for a gradient translation of movement in a device or component. These mechanical assemblies are typically used for gradual progression up and down or forward or backward at a slow or fast speed. A push-pull assembly might be used in equipment such as an aircraft, car or lawnmower. Sophisticated push-pull assemblies are wrapped in a protective casing. Discover the top reasons why these mechanical cable components need quality, customized cable casing.

Protection Matters

Push-pull cable components consist of mechanical parts that should not be exposed to damaging elements, such as moisture. A casing ensures the reliable and smooth performance of such assemblies over multiple cycles. For example, a bicycle’s hand breaks have a push-pull cable assembly enclosed in a casing. The same concept applies to sophisticated equipment using push-pull mechanical components. The right casing improves performance while protecting the mechanical elements that put the device in motion.

Keep in Motion

The purpose of push-pull assemblies is to assist a device in specific types of movement at the chosen rate of speed. The pushing action on one side of the assembly facilitates the pulling on the other side. As a result, these assemblies provide two basic types of movement. Based on the assembly requirements, the motion could be a few inches or several feet. A cable casing is a viable conduit for the cable to translate the pulling or pushing motion. Without this effective conduit, neither type of movement could travel along the push-pull assembly’s path. The use of a push-pull assembly and casing go hand-in-hand.

Custom Casing

Cable casing for your organization’s applications is typically constructed from materials such as Teflon, vinyl, and nylon. Each material is used for different applications. Make sure your engineering team knows what the casing must achieve. For example, nylon is often used in push-pull assemblies with pulleys, where the cable should not touch the pulley. Examples are robotics, where longevity is also expected. Because of its non-stick and contaminant-resistant properties, Teflon is frequently used in medical applications. Teflon also has environmental advantages because it is resistant to cold and heat. Adaptable and inexpensive, vinyl (or PVC) casing is a durable, flexible, and oil- and flame-resistant option. Plus, vinyl is an aesthetically pleasing choice because it can be manufactured in a shiny, flat, or matte finish.

Boost Buckle Protection

Without a casing, the push-pull motion can cause a cable to buckle. The ongoing strain will break the cable. The casing guides the push and pull actions to move properly along the assembly’s travel path. Because motion follows the path of least resistance, cable casing is essential to ensure continued movement for years to come. If the cable does not move in a straight line, the cable casing should be designed to follow the contours of the push-pull assembly seamlessly. However, there can’t be too many curves, which means the majority of cable casings are linear. A customization is an option when a mechanical cable assembly must curve around an object.

Choosing the right cable casing is a crucial aspect of ensuring a push-pull assembly does its job correctly for years to come. Work with industry professionals to determine the right material and type of casing required for all kinds of devices.