How are Control Cables used in Helicopter Systems?

Control cables are critical to the safe and precise operation of helicopter systems, enabling pilots to manage complex flight dynamics. At Bergen Cable, with over 80 years of expertise, we produce high-quality control cables tailored for aerospace applications.

Controlling Flight Surfaces

Helicopter flight control systems, including cyclic and collective pitch controls, rely on control cables to transmit pilot inputs to rotor blades. Bergen Cable’s push-pull cables, designed for precise compression and tension, adjust blade angles for lift, pitch, and roll. These cables ensure smooth and responsive control, allowing pilots to maneuver helicopters with accuracy during critical operations like takeoff, hovering, and landing.

Actuating Throttle and Engine Systems

Control cables manage throttle and engine functions, ensuring optimal power delivery in helicopters. Bergen Cable’s pull-pull cables, which operate using tension in both directions, connect cockpit controls to fuel systems or turbine governors. Crafted with durable materials like stainless steel, these cables withstand high-vibration environments, ensuring reliable engine performance and fuel efficiency under extreme conditions.

Enhancing Safety Mechanisms

Safety is paramount in helicopter operations, and control cables play a vital role in systems like emergency landing gear or door mechanisms. Bergen Cable’s cables, rigorously tested to withstand up to 22,500 lbs, provide dependable actuation for safety-critical components. Their corrosion-resistant design ensures longevity, reducing the risk of failure in harsh environments, such as high-altitude or marine operations.

Supporting Compact and Lightweight Designs

Helicopters require lightweight, compact components to optimize fuel efficiency and payload capacity. Bergen Cable’s miniature cables, such as Microlin™ and Posilign™, with diameters as small as 0.010 inches, are ideal for routing through tight spaces in cockpit controls or rotor assemblies. These cables offer flexibility and strength, maintaining precision in complex helicopter systems without adding unnecessary weight.

Meeting Aerospace Standards

The aerospace industry demands stringent quality and reliability standards. Bergen Cable’s control cables comply with AS9100D and ISO 9001:2015 certifications, ensuring they meet the rigorous requirements of helicopter manufacturers. Advanced manufacturing techniques, including CNC machining and Finite Element Analysis (FEA), optimize cable performance, providing the durability and precision needed for mission-critical aerospace applications.

Conclusion

Control cables are indispensable in helicopter systems, enabling precise flight control, engine management, and safety operations. Bergen Cable’s custom, high-quality cables ensure reliability and compliance with aerospace standards, supporting safe and efficient helicopter performance. For tailored control cable solutions, contact Bergen Cable at sales@bergencable.com or call (973) 276-9596.