When thinking of zip ties, nylon zip ties may come to mind first due to their extensive properties. However, are these the best zip ties for outdoor use? If you are using zip ties for an outdoor project, then you owe it to yourself to understand why UV resistant zip ties will be the right fit for your job.
Below, we’re going to look into the different features, uses and applications of UV & heat resistant zip ties.
What are UV Resistant Zip Ties?
UV resistant zip ties are a variation of standard cables with extended properties, best suited for withstanding and resisting harsh temperatures and outdoor conditions. They are made from nylon, which is a tough material with good thermal and abrasion resistance. It meets UL 94 V-2 flammability ratings and has a working temperature range from -40°F to 185°F.
After being introduced in 1956, zip ties have been praised for their balance of properties and flexibility to be used in various industries and environments. These UV resistant zip ties have greater resistance to ultraviolet exposure in outdoor usage, making them suitable for use in various industries for interior and exterior environmental conditions.
Why Use UV Resistant Zip Ties?
UV resistant zip ties are made to be able to resist harsh exposure to the great outdoors, like the sun. As the sun can break down the compounds in zip ties, causing their colour to fade, material to break down, and become fragile. If you have a job or project that requires outdoor tools & supplies, UV resistant zip ties are the best for outdoor applications because they are specifically designed to offer UV resistance, which will help protect the zip ties against harsh sun rays.
UV resistant zip ties are great for outdoor applications as they also offer heat and weather resistant properties. They are non-retardant in compliance with UL94V-2 and are long-lasting, sturdy, and durable. They can withstand temperatures between -40°C and +120°C and provide additional thermal endurance without affecting performance.
All sizes have excellent strength and holding power, however, strength does vary depending on individual sizing. You can find more information available on our UV resistant zip ties page.
Characteristics of UV Resistant Zip Ties
UV resistant zip ties have higher carbon content about 2% for greater resistance to ultraviolet exposure in outdoor usage, making them suitable for a multitude of uses in various industries for indoor and outdoor environmental conditions. Whereas, standard zip ties offer some UV resistance but generally only contain around 1% of carbon. They can be used in continuous or extended exposure to outdoor use. At GTSE, UV resistant zip ties are available only in black and white (green tint)*.
Features
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UV-resistant black and white (green tint)* zip ties
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Available in a wide range of sizes
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Made from UL approved Nylon 6/6, 94V-2
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Easy application either manually or with a tensioning/cutting tool
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Bent tail for easier use
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Resistant to external agents
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Contain a minimum of 2% carbon
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Working temperature range: -40°F to +248°F
What are UV Resistant Zip Ties Used For?
UV resistant zip ties are the ideal option for high ultraviolet environments. These ties are specifically manufactured to be used for continuous or extended exposure to outdoor use and UV light specially. For outdoor applications, you need zip ties that can stand up to the weather and a range of temperatures.
UV resistant zip ties can be used for a variety of different applications. Here are a few examples:
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Bundling and organising cables and wires outdoors
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Securing leads, pipes and hoses in the garden
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Fixing outdoor lighting fixtures and holding up garden plants
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Organising cables and extension leads for outdoor decks and patios
For outdoor applications and uses, we would advise using UV resistant zip ties. They contain UV and carbon stabilisers which shield them from destructive sun rays. Whereas, for acidic conditions, consider stainless steel zip ties. Stainless steel ties are purposely designed to withstand corrosion and endure harsh acidic conditions.
How Long Do UV Resistant Zip Ties Last?
Our UV resistant zip ties are designed to last under harsh UV light. UV resistant zip ties have been commonly known to last between 5 to 10 years, this is mainly for black zip ties. However, this can heavily vary depending on the colour and location of where the UV ties are situated. For white zip ties*, the longevity tends to be slightly less than black zip ties. Resulting in wiring or cables that are set in place with UV resistant zip ties to be permanently secure without having to swap out or change the ties for a long time.
Thoughts?
At GTSE, our UV-resistant zip ties are excellent for outdoor use and are durable and long-lasting for rugged outdoor conditions. Not only do we carry a variety of specialised UV resistant zip ties, but we offer a variety of zip ties for different applications and purposes. For more information on UV resistant zip ties and our zip tie range, see here.
*Please note that the white (green tint) UV resistant zip ties are currently not on our website but we are working to get them on here as soon as possible.