Cable Guys

by Brooke Smith | 16 April 2024 7:00 am

In an era when natural disasters and human tragedies are proliferating the news and social media feeds with increasing frequency, it is little wonder safety is a top concern for many citizens. As such, when designing commercial buildings, architects and construction professionals must make safety a primary consideration.

While there are many facets to a holistic safety plan for a commercial building—fire resistance, air quality, and secure access, to name a few—one of the most important concepts is the use of advanced railing materials to secure stairwells, walkways, and exterior perimeters.

Of the various railing materials on the market, one product stands out from the crowd: cable railings. In addition to their sleek aspect that complements the aesthetics of many types of commercial structures, cable railings provide myriad safety benefits for keeping structures secure.

Cable railings systems

There are various styles of commercial cable railing systems, each with their own unique advantages. Here are a few of the most popular configurations:

• Swaged Systems are the most common type of cable railing system. They are made up of stainless steel cables that are swaged, or crimped, at the ends. This creates a strong and secure connection that is resistant to rust and corrosion. Swaged systems are also relatively easy to install, making them a good choice for projects facing tight completion windows.
• Swageless Systems are made up of stainless steel cables that are not swaged at the ends. Instead, they are connected using a variety of different fittings, including swageless terminals, eye bolts, and turnbuckles. Swageless systems are more expensive than swaged ones, but they are also more flexible and easier to adjust. This makes them a good choice for customized projects.
• Metal Post Systems are made up of metal posts, such as stainless steel or aluminum, that are connected using cables. Metal post systems are strong and durable; they are also very stylish. However, they are more expensive than other types of cable railing systems.
• Wood Post Systems are made up of wood posts, such as cedar or redwood, that are connected using cables. These systems are attractive and also relatively affordable. However, they are not as strong or durable as metal post systems.

Strength and durability

Commercial grade cable railings offer an incredible amount of strength and durability. The cables used in cable railings are made of high-grade stainless steel, typically 304 or 316. Both of these boast a high resistance to corrosion and wear—essential features for ensuring the safety and durability of commercial sites. The most common type of high-grade stainless steel is 304, which is known for its good corrosion resistance and formability. The other commonly used stainless steel in cable railings is 316, which is similar to 304 but with a higher molybdenum content for even greater corrosion resistance, making it a preferred choice in industrial environments exposed to higher levels of chemical agents, such as manufacturing or processing plants.

Improved visibility

One of the great drawbacks to traditional railing systems is that they encumber views. Not only is this aesthetically problematic (and can even reduce energy efficiency due to natural light obstruction), but it presents a potential safety hazard, as patrons will never know what lies around the corner. This is not the case with cable railings. Their minimalist design provides no quarter for suspicious individuals to hide behind. Further, in busy warehouse settings with large amounts of loading machinery, workers can safely see what lies ahead and never be taken by surprise.

Reduced maintenance

Some types of railing systems must be regularly serviced to maintain their protective properties. For example, wood railings must be painted and stained to remain structurally sound. Metal railings need to be regularly wiped dry to prevent rust and corrosion. However, the stainless steel used in cable railings is nearly indestructible and can be easily cleaned with water and a mild detergent. They are as close to a set-it-and-forget-it railing option as there is on the market.

Variable spacing

Cable railings can be constructed with variable spacing between rails to serve the needs of the building. While 101 mm (4 in.) is the standard distance between each cable, this can be reduced if necessary. For example, buildings that frequently host children or pets may opt for 76 mm (3 in.) between cables to limit the likelihood that either, or both, would attempt to stick their head through the opening.

Permanent and temporary

Cable railings are a great choice for securing a perimeter on either a short-term or permanent basis. For example, during the construction phase, cable railings provide temporary safety barriers on scaffolding, elevated platforms, and open edges, ensuring worker safety while maintaining a professional appearance that does not deteriorate in the face of inclement weather. Due to these features, cable railings can also be employed as perimeter fencing around construction sites, demarcating boundaries, and protecting the area from unauthorized access. Their sleek design allows for ample visibility, enhancing the overall aesthetics of the site and promoting a sense of order and cleanliness. Within the structure itself, cable railings can be incorporated into architectural elements such as stairs and elevated walkways, contributing to the open aesthetics of the project while prioritizing safety and functionality.

Safety boost

In an industrial construction sector that is increasingly facing pressure to balance the optimum in aesthetics while maintaining the highest safety standards, cable railings provide a unique solution. Their sleek, understated aspect works well in a variety of industrial settings, and their low maintenance properties ensure they are not easily marred. Whether they temporarily mark the boundaries of a construction site or secure the periphery in a new commercial structure, cable railings are a compelling option.

Ryan Shure is a freelance writer who loves sharing his knowledge and expertise on renovations and construction. He lives in Tampa, Fla., where he enjoys spending time with his wife and researching building material trends in his free time. Shure’s work as a freelance writer can be found on BuildingProductAdvisor.com[1], a new construction industry resource.

Source URL: https://www.metalconstructionnews.com/articles/cable-guys/

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