Swaged Non-Tensioning Cable Railing Fittings Installation Instructions
Swaged non-tensioning cable railing fittings, such as the Invisiware Radius Ferrule, Invisiware Stud, and Fixed Jaws with Threaded Tabs or Lag Eyes, are designed to anchor cables securely without applying tension. These fittings act as fixed endpoints and rely on a tensioning fitting, like the Invisiware Receiver or Adjust-A-Jaw, on the opposite end of the cable run to maintain proper tension. They are permanently attached to the cable using a hydraulic swaging tool, they ensure a strong, durable connection while offering a sleek, low-profile design suitable for residential and commercial projects. Their versatility makes them ideal for level and pitched runs, delivering a polished and professional aesthetic.
Using a hydraulic swaging tool, these fittings provide a tamper-proof connection that securely anchors the cable at one end while tensioning is applied at the other. This two-part system balances stability, strength, and a clean appearance, making swaged, non-tensioning fittings a reliable choice for long-lasting cable railing systems in various applications.
Installing Swaged Non-Tensioning Cable Railing Fittings
Swaged non-tensioning fittings, such as the Invisiware Radius Ferrule, Invisiware Stud, and Fixed Jaws, are attached to 1x19 stainless steel cables using a hydraulic swaging tool, ensuring a permanent and secure connection. To maintain cable tension and structural integrity, these fittings must always be paired with a tensioning fitting at the opposite end of the run.
Installation involves swaging the fitting onto the cable, drilling appropriately sized holes in the posts, and securing the fitting to the post using its respective hardware. Whether the project involves through-post mounting with the Invisiware Radius Ferrule, a flush-mounted Invisiware Stud, or externally mounted Fixed Jaws with Threaded Tabs or Lag Eyes, the process results in a durable, stable, and visually appealing cable railing system.
Installation Tools and Materials
Installing swaged non-tensioning cable railing fittings requires the right tools and materials to ensure a secure and professional installation. You can achieve a durable and polished cable railing system with proper preparation. Key tools and materials include:
- Safety Gear: Always wear gloves and safety glasses to protect yourself during installation.
- Swager*: A Swager is essential for crimping swaged non-tensioning fittings onto cables, creating a secure and permanent connection.
- Drill and Bits: Use a drill with appropriate bits to create precise holes in metal or wood posts for cable and fittings.
- Level and Measuring Tape: To ensure accurate alignment, spacing, and placement of your cable runs and fittings.
- Wrenches: For securing fittings such as threaded tabs or mounts to the posts.
- Cable Cutter: For making clean, precise cuts in stainless steel cable to match your required lengths.
- Cable Railing Fittings: Choose your swaged non-tensioning fittings based on your project needs and calculate the necessary quantities of cable and fittings.
*A Swager is required for swaged non-tensioning fittings. If you don't own one, consider renting with a Swager Rental Kit. Find all the tools you need for installation here: Installation Tools
Invisiware Radius Ferrule
The Invisiware Radius Ferrule is a concealed, swaged fitting that ensures a clean and seamless look for cable railing systems. Its head is designed to match the Invisiware Receiver, creating a consistent and polished aesthetic while remaining hidden within the post. This fitting is paired with a tensioning fitting, such as the Invisiware Receiver, on the opposite end of the run to maintain proper cable tension. It includes a washer to protect the post's surface during tensioning and requires at least 2 inches of clearance behind the post for proper installation. With its sleek design and durable construction, the Radius Ferrule is a reliable choice for a professional-grade finish.
Specifications
- Mount Type: Through-Post
- Compatible Post Material: Metal or Wood
- Run Compatibility: Level or Pitched
- Cable Compatibility: 1/8", 3/16", 1/4", 5/16", and 3/8" diameter 1x19 stainless steel cable
Installation Instructions
- Mark and Measure: Identify the desired height for the cable on the post and mark the drilling points.
- Drill Through the Post: Drill a hole through the post at the marked position, matching or slightly exceeding the cable diameter.
- Drill Clearance Hole: On the back side of the post, drill a larger hole to accommodate the ferrule fitting, ensuring 2 inches of clearance behind the post.
- Swage the Ferrule: Attach the Radius Ferrule to the cable securely using a hydraulic swaging tool.
- Insert the Cable: Thread the cable through the drilled hole, starting from the front of the post.
- Add the Washer: Place a Delrin washer (for metal posts) or a stainless steel washer (for wood posts) between the ferrule and the post surface.
- Connect the Tensioning Fitting: Attach the other end of the cable to a tensioning fitting, such as the Invisiware Receiver, on the opposite end of the run.
- Apply Tension: Tighten the tensioning fitting until the cable is taut and properly aligned.
- Inspect and Finish: Check for proper alignment, trim excess cable, and cap the ends for a polished look.
Shop the Featured Fitting & Compatible Hardware
Radius Ferrules Delrin Washers SS Washers Protector Tube CableInvisiware Stud
The Invisiware Stud is a concealed, swaged, non-tensioning fitting designed specifically for metal post installations. Ideal for pitched or level cable runs, it works seamlessly with a tensioning fitting, such as the Invisiware Receiver, at the opposite end. The stud provides a clean, streamlined appearance by sitting securely within the post, ensuring a durable and professional finish for cable railing systems.
Specifications
- Mount Type: Hidden
- Compatible Post Material: Metal
- Run Compatibility: Level or Pitched
- Cable Compatibility: 1/8", 3/16", 1/4", 5/16", and 3/8" diameter 1x19 stainless steel cable
Installation Instructions
- Prepare the Post: Drill a hole through the metal post at the desired cable height, ensuring the diameter matches the cable.
- Thread the Cable: Insert the unswaged cable through the drilled hole, leaving enough length on the back side of the post for swaging.
- Swage the Stud: Use a hydraulic swaging tool to securely attach the Invisiware Stud to the cable, ensuring a tight and reliable connection.
- Seat the Stud: Pull the swaged stud back into the hole until it sits flush and concealed within the post.
- Attach the Tensioning Fitting: At the opposite end of the run, connect the cable to a tensioning fitting, such as the Invisiware Receiver, and tighten it to apply the desired tension.
- Inspect and Finalize: Verify proper alignment and tension of the cable, trim any excess, and cap the ends for a clean and safe finish.
Fixed Jaw and Threaded Tab or Lag Eye
The Fixed Jaw is a durable, swaged fitting designed for clean and secure cable railing installations. This fitting is paired with an Adjust-A-Jaw Tensioning Fitting on the opposite end of the cable run to maintain proper tension. It requires a ferrule and either a Lag Eye for wood posts or a Threaded Tab for metal posts, along with a mounting screw to attach it to the post. The Fixed Jaw provides a streamlined, professional finish, making it an excellent choice for any cable railing system.
Specifications
- Mount Type: Surafce/Face Mount
- Compatible Post Material: Metal or Wood
- Run Compatibility: Level or Pitched
- Cable Compatibility: 1/8", 3/16", 1/4", 5/16", and 3/8" diameter 1x19 stainless steel cable
Installation Instructions
- Prepare the Cable: Swage the cable securely to the ferrule using a hydraulic swaging tool.
- Attach the Fixed Jaw: Insert the swaged ferrule into the Fixed Jaw, ensuring a snug and secure fit.
- Mount the Lag Eye or Threaded Tab: For wood posts, install the Lag Eye by screwing it into the pre-drilled hole. For metal posts, attach the Threaded Tab using a compatible screw or mounting hardware.
- Secure the Fixed Jaw to the Mount: Align the Fixed Jaw with the mounted Lag Eye or Threaded Tab and connect them using the provided mounting screw.
- Install the Adjust-A-Jaw: On the opposite end of the run, connect an Adjust-A-Jaw Tensioning Fitting to the cable and secure it to the corresponding mounting hardware.
- Apply Tension and Inspect: Tighten the Adjust-A-Jaw to achieve the desired tension in the cable. Verify that all fittings are secure and properly aligned, and trim any excess cable.
Shop the Featured Fitting & Compatible Hardware
Fixed Jaws Ferrules Threaded Tabs Lag Eyes Mounting Screws Cable Adjust-A-JawClip-On Fixed Jaw and Threaded Tab or Lag Eye
The Clip-On Fixed Jaw is a compact and efficient fitting designed for cable railing systems requiring swaged fittings at both ends. Ideal for reducing hole diameters through intermediate posts, this fitting offers a sleek, professional finish. It works seamlessly with a ferrule, Lag Eye (for wood), or Threaded Tab (for metal), and a mounting screw to secure it to the post. The Clip-On design makes installation quick and straightforward, providing a durable and reliable solution for various applications.
Specifications
- Mount Type: Surface/Face Mount
- Compatible Post Material: Metal or Wood
- Run Compatibility: Level or Pitched
- Cable Compatibility: 1/8" and 3/16" diameter 1x19 stainless steel cable
Installation Instructions
- Prepare the Cable: Swage the ferrule onto the cable end with the proper hydraulic swaging tool.
- Thread the Cable: Insert the swaged cable end through the intermediate posts until it reaches the end post.
- Attach the Clip-On Fixed Jaw: Clip the swaged ferrule securely into the Clip-On Fixed Jaw, ensuring it is properly seated.
- Mount the Lag Eye or Threaded Tab: For wood posts, screw the Lag Eye into a pre-drilled hole. For metal posts, secure the Threaded Tab to the post using compatible mounting hardware.
- Connect the Jaw to the Mount: Align the Clip-On Fixed Jaw with the mounted Lag Eye or Threaded Tab and fasten them together using the provided mounting screw.
- Tension the Opposite End: Install and tighten a tensioning fitting, such as an Adjust-A-Jaw or similar, on the opposite end of the run to achieve proper cable tension.
- Inspect and Finalize: Verify that all components are securely fastened and properly aligned, trim any excess cable, and ensure a polished, professional finish.
Shop the Featured Fitting & Compatible Hardware
Clip-On Jaws Ferrules Threaded Tabs Lag Eyes Mounting Screws Cable Adjust-A-JawSwaged non-tensioning cable railing fittings offer a secure and durable solution for creating clean, modern railing systems. These fittings are designed to be crimped onto cables using a Swager, providing a strong and permanent connection that ensures stability and aesthetic appeal. Ideal for residential and commercial applications, they complement tensioning hardware to deliver a professional-quality railing system tailored to your space.
While swaged fittings provide reliable performance, installation errors can occur without careful attention. Failing to pair non-tensioning fittings with appropriate tensioning hardware can result in a loose or unstable system. Also, improper alignment, inadequate preparation, or incorrect swaging can compromise performance and lifespan. Following best practices and ensuring precision during installation will result in a seamless, long-lasting, and visually appealing railing system.
Have Questions or Want to Learn More about Cable Railing Fittings & Installation?
Explore the different types of cable railing fittings and their installation methods in our comprehensive Fittings Guide, along with a wealth of informational and instructional content available in our Resources Hub. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to reach out - our knowledgeable and friendly sales team is always here to assist you!