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Frequently Asked Questions

 

frequently asked questions


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  • What is a Gripper?

    A Cable Gripper is an adjustable fastener that automatically grips and locks to any position on an aircraft cable using an internal, spring-loaded 3-ball gripping mechanism. This allows the Gripper to move freely up the cable but not down unless the mechanism is released.

  • Do I need tools to adjust the Gripper?

    No, the Gripper mechanism is released by pressing the plunger manually.

  • Do I need a safety nut?

    Most Grippers have optional “safety nuts” or “safety caps” to lock the mechanism off in both directions.

  • Are locknuts provided with the Grippers?

    Generally no, but Grippers with metric threads are supplied with a corresponding bolt or lock nut.

  • What components do I need to hang my fixture?

    You will need a ceiling attachment (cable coupler or connector), a cable with a terminal (stop sleeve) and a Cable Gripper, normally placed at the fixture. You may also need ceiling canopies and power cord. See Powercord & Accessories.

  • Can I install these myself?

    Yes, if you’re a lighting professional or a competent handyman.

  • What is a Cable Coupler?

    Cable Couplers and ceiling attachments in general hold the cable to a structural attachment point by capturing the terminal (stop-sleeve).

  • What does the cable terminal (stop-sleeve) do?

    The terminal at the end of the cable allows the cable to be connected to the cable coupler. Our fittings usually attain the full-published break strength of the cable alone and are proof loaded to 60% of that value.

  • What type of Cable Coupler should I use?

    Normally the cable coupler attaches to a ¼-20 stud at the ceiling. This stud could be part of a bracket-bar (cross-bar) attached to a junction-box, or in the form of a T-bar clip or any structurally mounted ¼-20 or 3/8-16 threaded stud. Please refer to our Cable Couplers & Connectors section to find the correct coupler for your application.

  • What type of cable do I need?

    The cable has to be 7x7 or 7x19 stranded aircraft cable in stainless or galvanized steel. Cables should have factory installed terminals (stop-sleeves). The cable diameter depends of the weight of the fixture. Check the Weight Load Guidelines to determine Gripper and cable combinations.

  • How much weight will the cable hold?

    The cable industry works on a safety ratio of 5:1. In other words your Gripper and cable combination should be 5 times stronger then the weight they have to support. To determine the correct Gripper and cable combination, see our Weight Load Guidelines in the Technical section. The 5:1 ratio has been applied to the figures in black. Please adhere strictly to them.

  • What’s the difference between galvanized and stainless cable?

    Both Stainless Steel and Galvanized Aircraft Cable have approximately the same break strength. Galvanized cable is less expensive and is used in 90% of all lighting applications. Griplock stocks both types. For details see About Aircraft Cable.

  • Can I cut the cable myself?

    Yes, you can, but you should use a purpose-built Cable Cutter, which you can find under Miscellaneous. We recommend using a drop of super glue on the fresh cut to prevent the cable from fraying.

  • Can I crimp my own terminals and cable loops?

    Griplock Systems strongly discourages this. Doing so will void our warranty for the entire suspension system.

  • Does cable stretch?

    Not significantly.

  • What types of Cable Grippers are available?

    There’s a wide variety, but there are two distinct types. The Straight-Thru’ or standard Gripper  allows the cable to exit through the Gripper’s thread into the fixture. The Side-Cable-Exit Gripper allows the cable to exit the Gripper from the side of the body before the Gripper  enters the fixture, eliminating the possibility of a short circuit.

  • What are Grippers made of?

    Most are made of nickel-plated brass. Some, like the 15-1420 series and the 15-1032 are of nickel-plated steel. The internal mechanism is stainless steel and brass. Other finishes include satin-chrome and black zinc.

  • Is a Gripper/cable combination as strong as the cable alone?

    It is not. For example, 1/16” cable has a minimum break-strength of 475Lbs. Type-15 Griplock Premium Grippers will break 1/16” cable at about 350 lbs. ZF Standard Grippers will break 1/16” cable at about 275 lbs. For detailed information see our Weight Load Guidelines.

  • Can I make my lighting fixtures earthquake compliant?

    Please refer to our section on Seismic Bracing.

  • Can I use your products out of doors?

    Generally not, but Griplock products may be used outside for temporary rigging purposes.

  • Can I use your products for indoor pools?

    The chemical atmosphere in most indoor pool areas can be detrimental to certain materials over time. Please consult with the Sales Team for more information.

 

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