Lock Clad Cables
Bergen Cable is one of only two companies in the world approved to manufacture Lockclad cables per MIL-DTL- 87218. Lockclad cable assemblies are produced by swaging aluminum alloy tubing onto galvanized or stainless aircraft cable, which meets government specification MIL-W- 83420. These assemblies are primarily used as aircraft control cables. Lockclad was developed to eliminate sagging in long lengths of cable as well as to prevent wear of the cable. As the assembly passes through bulkheads and other obstructions in an aircraft, the aluminum tubing prevents abrasion of the outer wires.
Benefits of Lockclad cable assemblies include:
- Substantial reduction in stretch.
- Elimination of cable sag.
- Ability to be sealed when passed through pressurized bulkheads due to a fine cylindrical surface.
- Dampening of cable vibration.
- Higher coefficient of thermal expansion.
Please contact our sales department to learn more about Lockclad cable assemblies.
Lockclad Cable Assemblies for High-Performance Aerospace Applications
Lockclad cable technology plays an important role in aircraft systems where long cable runs, structural transitions, and demanding environmental conditions require exceptional stability and durability. Bergen Cable is recognized globally as one of the very few manufacturers approved to produce Lockclad cable assemblies to strict military specifications. This specialized capability allows us to support aerospace programs that depend on consistent mechanical performance and long term reliability.
Engineered Construction for Superior Stability
Lockclad assemblies are manufactured by swaging aluminum alloy tubing over high strength aircraft cable, creating a hybrid structure that combines flexibility with enhanced rigidity. This design minimizes stretch, reduces cable sag, and protects the underlying wire rope from abrasion as it passes through bulkheads, guides, and structural interfaces. The smooth cylindrical surface of the aluminum cladding also enables effective sealing when the cable transitions through pressurized compartments, a requirement in many aircraft platforms.
Designed for Demanding Aerospace Environments
Aircraft control systems rely on cables that maintain precise motion transfer despite temperature changes, vibration, and long unsupported spans. Lockclad assemblies address these challenges by providing vibration dampening, improved thermal expansion characteristics, and increased resistance to mechanical wear. These performance advantages make Lockclad cables ideal for applications where standard wire rope would experience premature fatigue or dimensional instability.
Certified Manufacturing for Mission-Critical Systems
Producing Lockclad cables requires specialized equipment, controlled processes, and strict adherence to military standards. Bergen Cable’s approval to manufacture Lockclad assemblies reflects decades of expertise in aerospace cable production and a commitment to quality systems that meet the highest regulatory expectations. Each assembly is produced with full traceability and rigorous inspection to ensure consistent performance in flight critical applications.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Makes Lockclad Cables Different from Standard Aircraft Cables?
Lockclad cables feature aluminum tubing swaged over aircraft cable, providing added rigidity, reduced stretch, and protection against abrasion.
Where Are Lockclad Cable Assemblies Used?
They are primarily used in aircraft control systems, especially where cables pass through bulkheads or require long, stable runs.
Why Is Aluminum Cladding Important?
The cladding prevents wear on the cable, enables sealing in pressurized areas, and helps eliminate sag in extended cable lengths.
Is Bergen Cable Certified to Produce Lockclad Assemblies?
Yes. Bergen Cable is one of only two manufacturers worldwide approved to produce Lockclad cables to MIL DTL 87218 specifications.
Lock Clad
