Engineered for High-Performance Applications
Cablecraft’s Ball Bearing Control Cables are engineered for high-performance applications providing a highly efficient and accurate system which maximizes load capability while minimizing backlash.
Cablecraft Ball Bearing Control Cables are available in two basic sizes. These are designated as KRF3000 (pictured) and KRF1600. Each size designates specific load and bend radius capabilities for a variety of applications.
Engineering Resources & Design Guides
Our engineering team has applied their years of industry experience to develop resource documentation for each of our product lines.
Cable Assembly Network
Our Worldwide Cable Assembler Network can help you with your mechanical motion control solutions.
Online Catalog
Don’t need a custom design? Download our digital catalog to see all of our available cable and linkage assemblies.
Key Features & Benefits
Primarily used in applications where high precision, minimal backlash, and efficient transmission of push-pull motion are required due to their ability to handle high loads and long distances with minimal friction.
Cablecraft Ball Bearing Control Cables design is enabled by several unique design features which allow the system to handle complex installations while providing the following benefits:
Key Benefits:
- Low Friction, High Efficiency: Design minimizes friction, providing smooth, responsive motion and reducing wear for extended service life.
- Wide Temperature Range: Engineered to perform in extreme conditions, our cables operate effectively from -65°F to 450°F.
- Complex Routing Up to 100+ Feet: Our cables maintain performance over long distances and through intricate routing paths, making them suitable for a wide range of industrial and aerospace applications.
- Low Lost Motion: Design ensures minimal lost motion, providing accurate and repeatable control.
- Flame Resistant: Built with flame-resistant materials, our cables meet strict safety standards for high-risk environments.
Multiple Industry - Standard End Fittings & Terminals: We offer a variety of end fittings and terminal ends to fit your specific application needs, ensuring seamless integration and reliable performance.
- All Stainless, Non-Magnetic Construction: Built with high-grade stainless steel components, our ball bearing cables are non-magnetic, corrosion-resistant, and ideal for demanding environments.
- Custom-Built to Specification: Our expert engineering team can manufacture cables tailored to your design and operational requirements, delivering customized solutions for unique applications.
Applications:
- Aircraft Flight Controls
- Helicopter Flight Controls
- Engine Controls
- Marine Systems
- Industrial
Design Guide
The basic specifications for each of our control series are defined on the accompanying capabilities chart. This chart shows the basic operational characteristics for each of our control series. Load carrying capability and bend radius are the distinguishing operating characteristics between series.
The standard configurations described accommodate applications where input and/or output actions have straight push-pull motion. Rigid mounting of control cable end fittings is achieved with jam nuts and washers on the threaded portions of the main sleeves.
When required by a specific application, several options are available for sealing the control from the environment.
Design Considerations
KRF3000 and KRF1600 Ball Bearing Control Cable Specifications
Compare the basic operating characteristics of Cablecraft KRF3000 and KRF1600 ball bearing control cables, including load capacity, bend radius, weight, stroke length, elastic stretch, temperature range, efficiency, and maintenance requirements.
| Specification | KRF3000 Series 400 |
KRF1600 Series 600 |
|---|---|---|
| Load | Maximum recommended tension and compression | Maximum recommended tension and compression |
| Normal Duty Load | 100 lbs | 500 lbs |
| Limited Duty Load | 300 lbs | 1000 lbs |
| Bend Radius | Minimum and recommended extended life | Minimum and recommended extended life |
| Minimum Bend Radius | 4 inches | 7 inches |
| Recommended Extended Life Bend Radius | 7 inches | 12 inches |
| Weight | Approximate weight per foot | Approximate weight per foot |
| Approximate Weight | 0.19 lb/ft | 0.50 lb/ft |
| Stroke and Routing | KRF3000 | KRF1600 |
| Length of Stroke | 1 to 6 inches | 1 to 6 inches |
| Flexibility | Multi-plane | Multi-plane |
| Support Clamping | Recommended every 5 feet | Recommended every 5 feet |
| Elastic Stretch | Stretch calculation | Stretch calculation |
| Push or Pull Only | .00013 x W x L | .000033 x W x L |
| Push and Pull | .00025 x W x L | .000066 x W x L |
| Formula Key | W = Load in pounds L = Length in feet |
W = Load in pounds L = Length in feet |
| General Performance | KRF3000 | KRF1600 |
| Lubrication | Not required | Not required |
| Temperature Range | Vinyl covered: -40°F to +220°F Bare controls: -65°F to +450°F |
Vinyl covered: -40°F to +220°F Bare controls: -65°F to +450°F |
| Test Requirements | MIL-C-7958 and MIL-STD-810 | MIL-C-7958 and MIL-STD-810 |
| Efficiency | 90% to 98% | 90% to 98% |
| Materials | CRES stainless steel / vinyl covering | CRES stainless steel / vinyl covering |
| Minimum Length | 30 inches | 30 inches |
| Maintenance | None required | None required |
| Shipping and Storage | Figure "8" | Figure "8" |
1 Lengths greater than 50 ft will be supplied in two or more equal lengths with appropriate couplings.
2 Control cables are best shipped and stored in the figure "8" configuration received from the factory. This minimizes the possibility of damage.
Normal duty assumes a minimum product life of 100,000 cycles.
Rated compression loads are limited to a 4 inch maximum stroke.
Engineering Resources & Design Guides
Our engineering team has applied their years of industry experience to develop resource documentation for each of our product lines.
Cable Assembly Network
Our Worldwide Cable Assembler Network can help you with your mechanical motion control solutions.
Online Catalog
Don’t need a custom design? Download our digital catalog to see all of our available cable and linkage assemblies.