Retractable Cables
Leading manufacturer of retractable cables
Retractable cables are designed to extend and retract repeatedly without damage. They are also known as coiled cables, curly cables, spiral cables or coiled electrical cables. Retractable cables are the solution of choice when space is limited, when a product moves between two points, or when tidy storage and quick extension are essential.
At Custom Designed Cables we design and manufacture retractable cables for industries ranging from automotive to medical devices. With more than 6,000 bespoke cable designs completed to date, we combine high-grade materials with proven construction methods to deliver cables that perform reliably in tough, high-use environments.
What are retractable (coiled) cables?
A retractable cable is formed into a helical coil, allowing it to stretch and return to its resting shape. Unlike standard straight cables, retractable cords reduce strain on connectors, improve mobility, and avoid tangling.
These cables can be designed for low-voltage electronics, data transfer, or heavy-duty power supply. Extension ranges can reach up to 30 m, with coil diameters from 5 mm to 400 mm depending on the material and application.
Benefits of retractable cables
Retractable and coiled cables offer several advantages:
- Space saving: compact design when not in use.
- Flexibility: easy to extend and retract without mechanical stress.
- Durability: proven resilience under repeated extension cycles.
- Safety: reduced trip hazards and cleaner cable management.
- Customisation: built in different colours, diameters, and with jacket printing.
Materials and construction options
Choosing the right material is essential for ensuring flexibility and performance in different settings without affecting durability. Each option offers unique benefits depending on the environment and application.
PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)
PVC is the most cost-effective choice for retractable and coiled electrical cables. It performs well in general-purpose applications where exposure to mechanical stress, chemicals, or heat is limited. Its strength lies in affordability and reliable insulation, making it suitable for office equipment, light-duty electronics, and indoor use.
PUR (Polyurethane)
PUR is highly flexible and extremely resistant to abrasion and chemicals. This makes it the preferred choice for robotics, automation, and industrial machinery where cables endure constant movement. PUR coiled cables retain elasticity even after thousands of cycles, making them ideal for demanding environments.
LSZH (Low Smoke Zero Halogen)
LSZH cables are designed for use in public spaces and regulated industries where fire safety is critical. In the event of a fire, they release very little smoke and no toxic halogen gases, protecting people and sensitive equipment. They are used extensively in medical and building infrastructure.
Hytrel
Hytrel is an advanced thermoplastic that combines flexibility with exceptional toughness. It offers a longer extension range than PVC, with high resistance to mechanical stress. Hytrel is often selected for aerospace and outdoor applications where cables must endure harsh conditions without losing elasticity.
Other design options include:
- Coil diameters from 5 mm to 400 mm
- Extension lengths up to 30 m
- Stripped or terminated ends for easy installation
- Jacket colour matching and printing for branding
- Multi-core layouts for combined power and data
Applications across industries
Retractable cables are incredibly versatile and can be tailored to specific industry needs.
Automotive and transport
Used in diagnostic equipment, charging systems, and trailer connections, coiled electrical cables keep vehicles safe and organised. Retractable extension cables are also common in workshops for powering tools while keeping the floor clear.
Electric vehicle charging
Retractable EV charging cables and retractable cable reels help reduce clutter at charging stations and allow for safe, compact storage. These designs support standard EV connectors and comply with relevant safety standards.
Telecommunications and IT
Retractable ethernet cables are used for temporary or mobile network connections, while coiled cables provide flexibility in server rooms and mobile communication units.
Medical devices
Retractable cords are used in hospital equipment such as diagnostic carts, and monitoring and imaging systems. LSZH and PUR options ensure compliance with hygiene and fire-safety standards.
Aerospace and defence
In aircraft and military field equipment, coiled cables must withstand vibration, movement, and extreme conditions. Materials such as PUR and Hytrel offer the durability required for mission-critical use.
Industrial and manufacturing
Retractable power cables are widely used in assembly lines, robotic systems, and inspection equipment. They reduce downtime by preventing cable tangles and damage.
Retractable cable reels and spools
Where longer lengths or mobile storage are needed, retractable cable reels and retractable cable spools provide neat, controlled management. Options include spring-loaded retractable cable reels for workshops and motorised reels for industrial sites.
Design process and specifications we need
To design the right coiled cable for your application, we ask for the following information:
- Length and finish of the first tail (A)
- Overall diameter of the coil (B)
- Retracted length or length at rest (C)
- Diameter of stripped end (D)
- Length and finish of the second tail (E)
- Quantity required
- Cable description: number of cores, sizes, and any special requirements
Our design team will then confirm feasibility, advise on materials, and provide a quote.
Lead times, quality, and compliance
We are proud to offer some of the fastest lead times in the industry, typically around 10 days from design to delivery. There is no minimum order quantity, allowing you to trial small runs before scaling up.
All retractable and coiled cables are manufactured in the UK to national and international standards. CDC holds ISO 9001:2015 certification along with UL and CSA approvals. We also maintain compliance with RoHS and REACH regulations, ensuring cables are safe and environmentally responsible.
Why choose CDC for coiled cables
- More than 6,000 cable designs completed
- Decades of experience in bespoke cable manufacturing
- Wide range of jacket materials and colour-matching options
- Proven performance across medical, military, automotive, and industrial sectors
- Fast lead times and flexible order quantities
- Free consultation and advice from our technical team
Our excellent customer service and transparent communication ensure that projects run smoothly from enquiry to delivery.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between coiled cables and retractable cables?
Coiled, curly, spiral, and retractable cables all describe the same concept: a cable shaped into a helix that can extend and return to its resting length. The coiling helps prevent tangles and reduces strain on connections. It also keeps workspaces tidy. The terms vary by industry but mean the same product.
How long can retractable cables extend?
The extension length depends on the material, coil diameter, and intended use. Standard retractable cables extend a few metres, while specialised designs can reach up to 30 metres. PVC is used for short lengths, while PUR and Hytrel support longer ranges. Proper design ensures durability even under repeated stretching.
What industries use retractable cable reels?
Retractable cable reels are widely used in workshops, EV charging stations, aerospace ground equipment, telecom setups, and data centres. They keep long cables organised, prevent tangling, and reduce trip hazards. By housing the cable inside a reel or spool, these systems ensure quick deployment and neat storage when not in use.
Are retractable charging cables durable?
When made with the right materials, retractable charging cables can withstand thousands of extension and retraction cycles. PUR and LSZH jackets provide superior resistance to abrasion, heat, oils, and chemicals. This durability makes them suitable for daily use in EV charging, consumer electronics, and portable devices, ensuring performance even in demanding conditions.
What details should I provide for a bespoke retractable cable?
To manufacture the right retractable cable, we need details such as coil diameter, retracted length, tail lengths, number of cores, conductor sizes, and the intended application. With this information, our engineers can recommend the most suitable materials, confirm feasibility, and provide you with an accurate design proposal and project quote.
Get a quote for your project
Need a retractable cable that fits your exact specification? Contact us today to discuss your requirements and get a tailored quote.
