Tensile strength:  The maximum amount of pulling or stretching force that a cable can withstand without breaking

Tensile strength refers to pulling and stretching. Here are some reasons why tensile strength is an important property that impacts antenna cables' durability, longevity, and reliability.

The tensile strength of LMR series cables varies depending on the specific type of cable. Here are the tensile strengths for LMR-100, LMR-200, and LMR-400 cables:

• LMR-100: Tensile Strength: 30 lbs (13.6 kg)

• LMR-200: Tensile Strength: 40 lbs (18.1 kg)

• LMR-400: Tensile Strength: 160 lbs (72.6 kg)

These values indicate the maximum tensile force each cable type can withstand without breaking. LMR-400, being the thickest and most robust among the three, has the highest tensile strength, making it suitable for more demanding applications where higher physical stresses are expected.

The tensile strengths for RG-174, RG-178, and RG-58 cables are as follows:

• RG-174:  Tensile Strength: 25 lbs (11.3 kg)

• RG-178:  Tensile Strength: 6 lbs (2.7 kg)

• RG-58:  Tensile Strength: 27 lbs (12.2 kg)

RG-174 and RG-178 are the strongest coaxial cable types that Data Alliance uses in our cables with U.FL connectors. 

Coax types that we use in MHF4 cables, U.FL, and W.FL cables, and their tensile strengths

• 0.081 mm coax (used in MHF4 cables):  Tensile Strength: Very small cables like this are often delicate, and their tensile strength can be in the range of a few Newtons (1-3 N), which is approximately 0.22 - 0.67 lbs.

• 1.13 mm Coaxial Cable: Tensile Strength: Approximately 5 lbs (2.27 kg)

• 1.32 mm Coaxial Cable:  Tensile Strength: Approximately 10 lbs (4.54 kg)

• 1.37 mm Coaxial Cable:  Tensile Strength: Approximately 15 lbs (6.8 kg)

1.13mm coax is used in cables with U.FL, MHF4, and W.FL cable connectors, and 1.32mm and 1.37mm coax are used in U.FL cables.

The Significance of Tensile Strength in Antenna Cables

1. Durability and Reliability:

   • High tensile strength ensures that the cable can endure various environmental conditions, such as wind, ice, and snow, which may exert significant force on it. This helps maintain the cable's integrity over time.

2. Installation and Maintenance:

   • During installation, antenna cables are often pulled through conduits or across long distances. Cables with high tensile strength are less likely to be damaged or broken during these processes, ensuring a smoother and safer installation.

3. Structural Integrity:

   • Antenna cables with high tensile strength are less likely to sag or stretch over time. This maintains the cable's proper alignment and positioning, critical for optimal signal transmission and reception.

4. Safety:

   • Stronger cables reduce the risk of accidents or failures, which can occur if a cable snaps under tension. This is particularly important in environments where cables are exposed to physical stresses.

5. Performance:

   • A high tensile strength outer sheath can maintain the integrity of the cable’s internal conductors and insulation, ensuring consistent signal quality and reducing the likelihood of signal loss or interference.

In summary, tensile strength is a factor that determines the longevity, reliability, and safety of antenna cables, particularly in demanding environments or applications where the cables are subjected to physical stress.

Connector Strength to Remain Attached to Cable

In the context of antenna cables, "tensile strength" primarily refers to the cable's ability to withstand pulling forces without breaking. However, the durability and strength of the connectors to remain attached to the coaxial cable under pull force are also critical and relevant considerations, though they are typically described with different terminology.

For connectors, the following terms and concepts are more applicable:

1. Pull-out Strength:

   • This term refers to the force required to detach the connector from the cable. It measures how well the connector is attached to the cable and how much force it can withstand before detaching.

2. Connector Retention Strength:

   • This is similar to pull-out strength and describes the force to pull the connector off the cable. It ensures that the connector remains securely attached during installation and use.

3. Crimp Strength:

   • For crimp-style connectors, this refers to the integrity of the crimp connection, which affects the overall strength and durability of the cable assembly.

4. Mechanical Stability:

   • This encompasses the overall mechanical robustness of the connector-cable interface, including how well the connector can handle various forces such as pulling, bending, and twisting.

While the tensile strength of the cable itself is important, ensuring that the connectors are correctly attached and can withstand similar forces is equally significant for the overall performance and reliability of the antenna cable assembly.