Coiled cables, also known as curly cables, spiral cables or retractable cables, are flexible, space-saving cords for cable assemblies designed to combine flexibility with functionality. They are a popular choice across the various industries that need cables.
From transmitting data in high-tech applications to delivering power in industrial settings, coiled cables cater to diverse needs, ensuring durability and reliability.
In this post, we’ll explore the different types of coiled cables, including coiled data, audio, USB, power coiled cords, and extension cables, as well as speciality options for military, medical, and automotive applications. Understanding the characteristics and uses of these cables will help you choose the right type for your specific needs, ensuring reliability and performance in your projects.
What are coiled cables?
Coiled cables are specially designed electrical cables that feature a spring-like, helical shape. These flexible cables are often made from durable, flexible materials like rubber or plastic, enabling them to withstand frequent stretching and compression without damage.
The benefits of coiled cables include the capability to extend and retract easily, providing flexibility and mobility whilst remaining compact when not in use. Furthermore, their tangle-resistant nature and ability to save space make coiled power cords ideal for environments where flexibility and durability are essential.
Each cord coiled into its spring-like shape offers excellent strain relief, preventing internal conductor fatigue and extending service life. One of the reasons why they are widely used in industrial and mobile equipment.
8 types of coiled cables
When it comes to coiled cables, there are several different cables that commonly feature a coiled design. These include:
1. Coiled data cables
Coiled data cables are flexible, spiral-shaped cables designed for the efficient transmission of digital data, whilst allowing easy extension and retraction.
Typically made from high-quality materials like copper or fibre optics, coiled data cables are engineered to maintain data integrity even under constant stretching and compression. The coiled design helps prevent tangling and minimises wear and tear, making them durable for environments with frequent movement.
Coiled data cables include:
- Ethernet cables, used for wired internet connections, local area networks (LANs), and other networking needs.
- Coaxial cables, for the transmission of radio frequency signals, including television aerial connections, transmission of video (CCTV) images and broadband signals.
- Fibre optic cables, commonly used in telecommunications, internet connections, and data centres.
2. Audio coiled cables
Coiled audio cables are spiral-shaped cables designed to transmit sound signals, whilst offering flexibility and convenience.
Made from high-quality conductors, typically copper, and insulated to reduce signal interference, these cables deliver clear and uninterrupted audio, even when stretched or compressed. The coiled design allows the cable to extend when needed and retract to a compact form, reducing clutter and preventing tangling.
Curly cables like these are commonly used in musical instruments (known as instrumentation cables), headphones, microphones, and sound systems, where mobility and space efficiency are essential without compromising sound quality.
3. Coiled USB cables
Coiled USB cables are flexible, spiral-shaped cables designed to facilitate data transfer and power delivery, whilst providing convenience and space-saving benefits.
Constructed from high-quality materials such as copper wiring and durable insulation, these cables ensure reliable performance and signal integrity, even when extended or retracted frequently. The coiled design allows the cable to stretch as needed and retract to a compact form when not in use, helping to prevent tangling and minimise clutter.
Coiled USB cables are commonly used where mobility and organisation are essential for maintaining a tidy workspace or on-the-go convenience. These cables include:
- USB-A to USB-B – Used for connecting printers, external hard drives, and other peripherals to a computer.
- USB-A to Micro-USB – Used for charging and data transfer in smartphones, tablets, and small electronic devices.
- USB-A to USB-C – Used for charging and data transfer with smartphones, tablets, and other portable electronic devices.
4. Coiled power cables
Coiled power cables – or power coiled cords – are flexible, spiral-shaped cables designed to transmit electrical power whilst offering the convenience of extension and retraction.
Made from durable materials such as thermoplastic elastomers, these cables are designed to withstand high voltage, frequent movement, and environmental stressors like moisture and temperature variations. The coiled structure allows the cable to stretch when needed and retract when not in use, preventing tangling and reducing wear and tear, providing a compact and reliable solution for delivering power in dynamic or confined environments.
Coiled power cables are commonly used in household appliances, industrial machinery, and portable power tools, where mobility and durability are important. They are also used in coiling power cords for generators and field equipment that require flexibility in operation.
5. Coiled extension cables
Coiled extension cables are flexible, spiral-shaped cords for cable management, designed to extend electrical connectivity over a variable distance whilst offering convenience and space efficiency.
Made from durable materials like thermoplastic or rubber, these cables can handle higher power loads and withstand environmental factors such as heat and abrasion. The coiled design allows the cable to stretch as needed and retract when not in use, reducing clutter and preventing tangling.
Coiled extension cables are commonly used for power tools, industrial equipment, and home appliances, where mobility and space-saving features are crucial for safe and efficient power delivery.
6. Military-grade coiled cables
Coiled military-grade cables are robust, spiral-shaped cables designed to meet the stringent requirements of military and defence applications, whilst providing flexibility and durability.
Constructed from high-performance materials like ruggedised polymers and shielded conductors, these harsh environment cables are built to withstand extreme environmental conditions, including temperature fluctuations, moisture, abrasion, and electromagnetic interference (EMI). The coiled design allows the cable to extend and retract as needed, minimising tangling and reducing the risk of damage in dynamic or tactical situations.
Coiled military-grade cables are commonly used in communication systems, battlefield electronics, tactical equipment, and vehicle wiring, where durability, mobility, and consistent performance are critical.
7. Medical-grade coiled cables
Coiled medical-grade cables are specialised, spiral-shaped cables designed to meet the strict standards of healthcare environments whilst offering flexibility and durability.
These cables, which often include design aspects from harsh environment cables, high temperature cables, and radiation resistant cables, are made from biocompatible, sterilisable materials like medical-grade silicone or thermoplastic elastomers – ensuring they are safe for use in sensitive medical settings. The coiled design allows for easy extension and retraction, preventing tangling and minimising space requirements in confined areas like operating rooms or patient care settings.
Coiled medical-grade cables are commonly used in medical devices, diagnostic equipment, patient monitoring systems, and surgical instruments, where reliability, safety, and ease of handling are essential.
8. Automotive coiled cables
Coiled automotive cables are flexible, spiral-shaped cables designed specifically for use in vehicles to transmit power, signals, or data efficiently whilst accommodating movement and space constraints.
Made from durable, heat-resistant materials such as PVC or thermoplastic elastomers, these cables are built to withstand the harsh environmental conditions of automotive applications, including temperature extremes, vibration, and exposure to chemicals. The coiled design allows the cable to stretch and retract as needed, preventing tangling and reducing wear in dynamic environments like engine compartments or between moving vehicle parts.
Coiled automotive cables are commonly used in applications such as trailer connections, car chargers (known as EV cables), diagnostic systems, and lighting systems, where mobility and reliability are critical.
Custom coil cords and speciality options
In many industries, standard lengths or materials won’t suffice. Custom coil cords can be manufactured to meet unique performance requirements, from flexible power leads to compact retractable data lines. CDC’s in-house team can design custom coiled cables in various conductor sizes, coil pitches, and sheath materials to suit the environment, whether for industrial robotics, audio gear, or portable diagnostic tools.
Need a custom coil cord designed for your project? Contact our team for a no-obligation specification review.
Factors to consider when choosing a coiled cable
When choosing a coiled cable, it’s essential to consider several key factors to ensure it meets your specific needs and requirements.
1. Cable type and application
Determine the specific type of coiled cable needed based on its intended use, such as power, data, audio, or signal transmission. Different applications may require distinct features, such as higher voltage ratings for power coiled cords or specific cable shielding for data cables to prevent interference.
2. Material and durability
Evaluate the materials used in the cable’s construction, as they affect flexibility, durability, and resistance to environmental factors. Look for cables made from high-quality materials like thermoplastic elastomers (TPE), polyurethane (PUR), or rubber, which can withstand abrasion, temperature fluctuations, and moisture.
Material comparison example:
| Material | Flexibility | Temperature range | Common use |
|---|---|---|---|
| PUR | High | -40°C to +90°C | Industrial, outdoor |
| PVC | Moderate | -20°C to +70°C | Consumer, automotive |
| TPE | Very high | -50°C to +105°C | Medical, robotics |
3. Coil diameter and length
Consider the coil diameter and the extended length of the cable when stretched. Ensure that the cable can reach the required distance for your application whilst maintaining a compact form when not in use. A smaller coil diameter may offer better retraction, but it could also limit the cable’s overall length.
Recoil force and tensile strength are also important. The tighter the coil, the stronger the recoil, which may be preferred in environments needing cable retraction after use.
4. Electrical specifications
Check the electrical specifications, including voltage rating, current capacity, and resistance. Ensure the cable can handle the power requirements of your devices or systems without overheating or causing signal loss.
5. Compliance and standards
Ensure that the coiled cable meets relevant industry standards and certifications, especially for specialised applications like medical or military use. Compliance with standards such as UL, CE, or RoHS ensures the cable is safe and reliable for its intended purpose.
Frequently asked questions
What’s the difference between a spiral cable and a curly cable?
They’re essentially the same design. Both describe a coiled cable with a helical shape that can extend and retract. “Curly cable” is a more casual term, while “spiral cable” is often used in technical contexts.
Can I order custom coiled cords for my equipment?
Yes. Custom Designed Cables can manufacture custom coiled cords in any length, pitch, or sheath material to match your application and compliance requirements.
How long do coiled cables last before losing elasticity?
With proper material selection and strain relief, most coiled cables retain their recoil for years, even in industrial environments. Material choice (PUR or TPE) makes a significant difference.
Are coiled power cords safe for high-voltage use?
Yes, when designed with the correct conductor size, insulation, and standards (such as UL or CE). Always match the voltage rating to your application.
Knowing which cable you need, and having a strong understanding of cable management, is essential for a safe and efficient setup. For expert advice, contact our helpful team today, or explore more resources on our blog.