A Guide to DIY Wire Projects…

When it comes to ordering wire products, there are a few things you can do to ensure a smooth working relationship with your wire supplier. Fortunately, it isn’t too difficult or time consuming to gather the necessary information and materials you will need to accomplish this. However, taking the time to gather this information upfront can make a big difference in the final outcome of your projects and can save a lot of time, money and frustration down the road.

Here are 5 Tips for a Seamless Ordering Process with Your Wire Supplier

Determine What Structure and Size of Material You Need.

Your order needs to reflect the type of material your job will require.  What structure, MBL (mean breaking load), MWL (mean working load), and the sort of fittings (manual or swaged) all figure into your needs. So figuring out in advance what you need to be safe and successful will keep costs under control and will prevent unwanted delays during installation. A reputable  wire rope supplier should be able to help and advise you with this step – communication is the key – by providing recommendations based on your particular situation.

Determine How Much Material You Need.

Of course, before placing any order you will need to know how much material your job will require. Figuring out in advance how many pieces or rolls it will take to complete your project will keep costs under control and will prevent unnecessary job delays from having to reorder more material during installation. A reputable  wire rope supplier should be able to help you with this step by providing recommendations based on your particular situation.

Figure Out the Appropriate Dimensions for Section or Area.

Wire clearly comes in a variety of lengths and widths/thicknesses. Naturally, the correct dimensions for your order will depend on the exact specifications of your project. Again, the more accurate and detailed you are with this information from the beginning, the more efficient your ordering process will be.

Spell Out the Specifics in Advance.

When placing your order with your supplier, you will also want to pay attention to details such as the type and number of runs you need as this directly affects the fittings that your will need in order to fasten the wire. (Interestingly, one area you need to consider is how high your project is above the surrounding landscape). Other factors you will want to consider include the wire diameter (d) and the type of structure (number of strands), if necessary. The more detailed the information you provide, the more likely your order will arrive as expected.

Provide Samples Whenever Possible.

If you have a sample of the wire that you have used previously or one that matches what you want to incorporate into your current project, be sure to provide it to your wire rope supplier when you place your order. This will enable them to analyze it and fulfill your order according to the proper specifications.

Keep Detailed Records from Prior Orders.

If you are placing a repeat order with a new wire rope supplier, having the complete set of  information on hand will expedite the ordering process and will ensure a positive outcome. Therefore, it is a good idea to save the roll labels from prior orders or record the exact technical data from orders you may repeat in the future.

As promised, these five tips are both easy and simple to follow and will ensure a smooth ordering process for your next project. In addition, these simple steps will guarantee a positive working relationship with your wire rope supplier.