Properly Swaged Fittings Are the Key to Seismic Bracing Installations

When properly installed, fittings maintain the break strength of their respective cables without the need for a thimble. This allows installers to use smaller cables and cable kits instead of bulkier, oversized cables that require hand-tightened fittings. With the correct tools and guides from our website, you can easily cut, swage, and install seismic cable that has the capacity to protect infrastructure from destructive earthquake activity.

Cable Kits

image-12For convenient installation, we offer seismic cable sway bracing kits that come preassembled with permanent stake eye fittings. To install, simply remove the packaging, attach the stake eye to a designated mounting location, secure the desired component using instructions from our design guides, and swage an oval sleeve to the loose end. Our design guides even include a comprehensive chart that outlines the required number of swages per oval sleeve, so you always know exactly how many you need.

image-6Whether you are using our cable kits or making your own assemblies from bulk spools, we recommend using Locoloc swaging tools and FELCO cutters to ensure appropriate attachment of all hardware. Deformed, crushed, and damaged cable ends resulting from poor cutting tools can make swaging challenging, and leave the assembly at risk for failure. Fortunately, C7 and C9 cutters from FELCO cut the cable from all sides at the same time, assuring a smooth cut without any frayed ends. Once you have successfully cut your cable, you can use either a manual or battery powered Locoloc swaging tool to secure your zinc-plated fitting. These tools are high quality and have the capacity to swage fittings up to 1/2".

To browse all of the products referenced in this blog, visit the products page on our website for bulk cable, cable kits, tools, and hardware. Visit https://tools.loosseismicbracing.com/ for assistance with seismic bracing calculations, or download a copy of our Seismic Design guide. If you have any questions about installation procedures or products, you can view our series of How To videos or contact us.

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