WARNING

On this page we suggest a number of fixing methods which we believe result in a strong union between elastic shock cord, anchor points and fittings suitable for a wide range of applications. However, it is the responsibility of the customer to ensure that their assemblies are suitable for their particular application. We do not recommend the use of these methods for any application involving support of people or animals. In particular we stress that NONE of the techniques and equipment described here are suitable for bungee jumping. Customers interested in this application are referred to the British Elastic Rope Sports Association (BERSA) for information and guidance.

 

Joining and Fixing Techniques
Here, we describe two methods of cord fixing that can be used to join shock cord lengths and make loops, either open, for fixing to a static anchor point or for the attachment of our range of steel end terminations. Two systems are described: Cord Ties, which offer a simple, low cost, method for light-duty applications for all cord sizes and Cord Clamps which are recommended for heavy-duty applications for cords of 6mm or greater diameter and for all 12-14mm cord fixing.

 

Cord Ties

For light-duty fixing of elastic shock cord up to 10mm diameter

Cord ties provide a simple, low cost, but strong and effective method for fixing elastic shock cord and for securing various types of fitting. They make it possible to home-fit a wide range of cord-end terminations which would otherwise require the use of a crimping press. Cord ties may be used to make strong connections between cords of up to 12mm diameter, to form loop terminations for other types of fixing and to fit a range of metal hooks and end fittings.

 
Recommended cord ties for straight joining and loop terminations:-

Cord diameters up to 4mm: No of ties 1-2, Tie width 2.5mm
Cord diameters 5-8mm: No of ties 2-3, Tie width 3.6mm
Cord diameter 10mm: No of ties 3, Tie width 4.8mm

 

 
How to join cord, make loops and attach fittings using cord ties

 
1. Offer up the two cord ends to be joined (in the case of a straight joint) or fold over the cord end to form an open loop or to enclose the desired fitting. In each case overlap the cord to be fixed by approximately twice the cord diameter for each tie to be used for the overall joint.

2. Loop the cord tie over the two strands of shock cord to be joined and feed the cord tie end into the cord tie ratchet (Fig. 1).

3. Pull the cord tie end as tightly as possible by hand in the direction of the arrow (Fig. 2). A pair of pliers may be used (with care) to give additional force.

4. Trim the cord tie end (Fig. 3).

5. Repeat steps 1-4 for as many ties as required for the joint.

 Cord Tie Application Examples

Straight Joints

Open Loops
 

 

 Fitting Loops

 Steel Cord Clamps

For heavy-duty fixing of elastic shock cord from 6-14mm diameter

Cord clamps are of two-piece, zinc-plated, mild steel construction. The two lengths of cord to be joined are slipped between the two halves of the clamp which are then tightened together using the nuts provided. This makes and extremely strong union. They are also adjustable and re-useable. Our clamps come in two sizes, one suitable for 6-8mm cord and a larger version for 10-14mm cord. 6-8mm cord clamps are secured using an 8mm spanner and 10-14mm clamps using a 14mm spanner.

Cord Clamp Application Examples

Making an open loop in 10mm cord

Attaching steel carbine hooks. Picture shows one of our small carbine hooks attached to 8mm cord and one of our large carbine hooks attached to 12mm cord.