If you need a stainless steel cable for any one of your projects, then choosing the right one is essential. If you didn’t already know, 316 stainless steel is some of the best stainless steel cable out there.
The reason for this is because 316 stainless steel features great corrosion resistance. However, it’s also very durable and strong. This means that it is ideal for architectural, industrial, marine, and home environments. A T316 stainless steel cable provides you with great performance.
In this guide, we’re going to provide you with all of the information you need to choose the right kind of 316 stainless steel cable for your purpose. On that note, it is worth considering the VEVOR as a brand, as it produces some of the best stainless steel cables in the world. Let’s figure out how to choose the best 316 stainless steel cable.
Table of contents
What is 316 Steel Cable?
316 stainless steel cable is a special version of wire rope that is made out of 316 stainless steel. 316 stainless steel is a special grade of stainless steel that contains a lot of chromium, therefore providing you with great corrosion resistance. This type of stainless steel often contains higher levels of molybdenum as well, a material known for its resistance to crevice corrosion and pitting.
Because of its high corrosion resistance, 316 stainless steel is ideal for outdoor applications and for any very harsh environment. This includes coastal areas and marine environments. Remember, 316 stainless steel is especially resistant to corrosion and rusting, making it ideal for marine applications.
The cable itself is made by taking many strands of stainless steel wire and then twisting them together. This can come in many different configurations. The great durability of 316 stainless steel cables makes them ideal for a wide variety of applications across the board. Speaking of applications, let’s move on and figure out what exactly you might use this type of stainless steel cable for.
What are the Uses of 316 Steel Cables?
The fact of the matter is that 316 steel cables can be used for a wide variety of purposes. Because they are resistant to corrosion, as well as durable, strong, and flexible, they can serve many different purposes.
Marine
One of the most common applications of 316 steel cables is for the marine industry. The marine industry uses 316 steel cables for a variety of purposes, including anchoring, securing boats and yachts, rigging, and even creating barriers on docks and piers. This is a very durable type of stainless steel cable, and it should last for a very long time, even in harsh marine locations.
Construction
Next, 316 stainless steel cables are often used in construction and architecture. They can be used in balustrades, high-rise buildings, and suspension bridges, particularly for providing structural support. These cables are able to withstand a lot of pressure and heavy loads, while also maintaining a sleek and streamlined appearance. This makes them ideal for construction purposes where aesthetic appeal is important.
Manufacturing
The next setting where 316 stainless steel cables are often used is in manufacturing and industrial settings. This is especially the case if we are talking about rigging applications, lifting, and machinery. They are able to provide constant and reliable performance in conveyor systems, hoists, and cranes. They are able to withstand very heavy loads while having great resistance to basic wear and tear.
Home Use
Although generally used for more professional and industrial applications, 316 stainless steel cables can also be used for garden and home projects. If you need to make a fence, a trellis, or a deck railing, then A316 stainless steel cable can provide you with a modern look while also being durable and long-lasting.
Factors to Consider When Choosing 316 Stainless Steel Cables
Before you make any sort of purchase, there are a variety of factors that you need to consider when choosing 316 stainless steel cables. If you pay attention to the key factors that we list below, you should have no problems choosing the right 316 stainless steel cable to suit your needs.
Grade of Material
OK, so technically speaking, T316 is the grade of stainless steel that 316 stainless steel cables are made out of. However, before making a purchase, make sure that you indeed purchase a cable that is made out of genuine 316 stainless steel. Although uncommon, there may be some low-quality manufacturers out there that don’t meet this exact specification.
Construction
Another very important thing to consider when choosing A316 stainless steel cable is the construction of it. This refers to how many wires the cable is made out of, and how many strands are in each wire. There are three typical configurations, which include 1X19, 7X7, and 7X19.
First, we have 1X19 stainless steel cables. These feature a single strand that is made out of 19 wires. This allows for a great deal of strength and load-bearing capability, which limited flexibility. This is a good type of stainless steel cable if you need a lot of rigidity.
We then had 7X7 stainless steel cables. This is a type of stainless steel cable that features 7 strands, each with seven wires. This allows for both a great deal of flexibility and strength. This type of stainless steel cable is ideal for many general applications.
Finally, we then have 7X19 stainless steel cables. This type of stainless steel cable features 7 strands, each made with 19 wires. This allows for a maximum amount of flexibility but isn’t quite as strong as the two other options. If you need a stainless steel cable that can easily move and bend, while also being able to hold a decent amount of weight, then this is the way to go.
Breaking Strength
Before purchasing any kind of stainless steel cable, you always want to pay attention to the maximum load it can take before breaking. Now, keep in mind that most of these stainless steel cables feature a maximum load as well as a working load.
The working load is how much the cable should be able to handle with ease, whereas the maximum load is how much it can handle before it breaks. You need to make sure that the stainless steel cable in question can hold more weight than your intended application.
Coatings
Another important consideration to keep in mind when purchasing 316 stainless steel cables is if they have any kind of coatings or finishes. Yes, there are uncoated cables, and these are perfectly fine for virtually all applications.
They have a natural and shiny look to them, which makes them aesthetically appealing. However, if you are looking for enhanced corrosion resistance and abrasion resistance, going with a 316 stainless steel cable that features a PVC coating or vinyl coating is recommended. Remember that the exact coating you choose depends on your application.
Diameter and Length
Yet another consideration you need to make before choosing a 316 stainless steel cable is the diameter and length. First, the cable has to be long enough to suit your requirements, along with a bit of extra length for any adjustments or repairs. You then also want to pay attention to the diameter of the cable. Keep in mind that cables with larger diameters are stronger, but also a little less flexible.
Quality Compared to Price
Now, the price of a product like this is one of the first things that we recommend paying attention to because you often get what you pay for. You definitely don’t want to purchase the cheapest option out there, although this also doesn’t mean that you need to spend a ridiculous amount of money. If you go with brands like VEVOR, finding high-quality 316 stainless steel cables that don’t cost a fortune is easy.
Recommended For Your Project
Why VEVOR 316 Stainless Steel Cable Stands Out
The VEVOR 316 Stainless Steel Cable is hands down one of the best in the business, and one of the reasons for this is that it is indeed made out of genuine T316 stainless steel. It contains a lot of chromium and molybdenum, making it highly resistant to rusting, corrosion, abrasion, and more.
Furthermore, what’s also impressive is that this cable comes in a variety of configurations, including all of the ones we’ve mentioned above. This includes 1X19, 7X7, and 7X19. This means that you can choose the one that works best for your requirements.
The next standout feature of this particular stainless-steel cable is the fact that it features a very high breaking strength. It can handle a maximum load of 1700 lbs, which is no small feat. This is an uncoated version, which means that it also has a great appearance while remaining both strong and flexible. It comes in at 1/8 of an inch in diameter and you get a full 500 feet of it.
FAQ
What makes 304 and 316 Stainless Steel Cables Different?
The main difference between 304 and 316 stainless steel is that 304 stainless steel isn’t quite as strong. 316 stainless steel contains higher amounts of molybdenum and chromium, both of which help provide enhanced resistance to corrosion and pitting. This makes 316 stainless steel ideal for marine and industrial applications.
How Do I Choose the Right Construction for My Needs?
If you are looking for a maximum amount of strength, you want to go with a 1X19 construction, as this features maximum strength with limited flexibility. If you are looking for a good mix of flexibility and strength, then a stainless steel cable with a 7X7 construction is recommended. However, if strength is not the most important factor, but flexibility is, then going for a stainless steel cable that features a 7X19 construction is what you need.
Can 316 Stainless Steel Cable Be Used for Residential Purposes?
Yes, absolutely, 316 stainless steel cables can be used for a wide variety of residential purposes. You can use this type of stainless steel cable for fencing, trellises, deck railings, and more. It’s great for home use because it’s both strong and durable, while also providing you with a sleek and streamlined appearance.
Where is the Best Place to Purchase a High-Quality 316 Stainless Steel Cable?
If you are looking for the best possible 316 stainless steel cable, then VEVOR is certainly a brand worth checking out. This is a brand that provides its customers with extremely high-quality products that don’t break the bank.
Final Thoughts
When all has been said and done, the simple fact of the matter is that 316 stainless steel cables can be used for a wide variety of applications. The trick is of course choosing the right one to begin with. If you follow all of the tips that we have provided within today’s guide, you should have no problems choosing the best type of 316 stainless steel cable for your purposes.
Something that you should remember however is that VEVOR is a top contender as far as 316 stainless steel cables and related products are concerned. It’s a brand name well known for producing some of the highest quality products in the world, all while allowing you to stay within your budget.
