The 4 Types of Flex Cable

When choosing cable for a flex application, it is important to consider the specific type of flexing your cable will face. This is the key to finding a cable that will be effective and that will last. If the wrong type of cable is chosen, it is likely that the jacket and insulation will break down quickly, costing you extra money in product replacements, downtime, and a second installation process.

There are four types of flex cable. We will go through them, so you can find the perfect flexing cable for your application’s needs the first time around.

1. Torsional Flex

This type of flex cable twists, usually in a circular motion around an axis. Torsional Flex Cables are commonly used in robotic pick-and-place equipment and industrial applications.

2. Rolling Flex

This type of flex cable is pulled, usually through a cable track similar to a pulley system. Rolling flex cables often face continuous movement, so it is important to choose an abrasion-resistant cable for rolling flex applications

3. Bending Flex (Tic-Toc Flex)

The type of flex cable, also called Tic-Toc Flex cable, bends repeatedly in a back and forth motion. Cables used in these applications must have tough insulation and a jacket built to withstand the stress of repetitive lateral movements.

4. Variable Flex (Random Flex)

This type of flex cable moves freely, often in a random fashion. Variable flex is featured in many robotic applications and automated machinery.

Now that you can identify the four different types of flex, you are well on your way to finding an appropriate cable solution for your flexing application!