Understanding Push-Pull Control Cables: Types, Applications & Industries

Control cables can be broken down into different types but essentially there are push-pull cables, pull ONLY cables, Micro Adjust cables and twist lock cables.

Industrial & Cable Group assemble all these cables in our Sydney factory, ready for quick shipping across Australia and New Zealand.

Push-Pull cables operate by the cable inner moving through a housing and moving the force from one end to the other of the cable.  They are straight forward, precise and relatively easy to install. These are the most common type of control cable, but they are not suitable as rotating style cables.

Pull ONLY cables operate in a similar method to the Push Pull cable but have no sleeves at each end to resist the compression force of a Push Pull cable.  They can manage force in a Pull ONLY direction.

Micro Adjust cables also known as Vernier Cables are a variation on the Push Pull cable where the operation is controlled by the Micro Adjustment at the Load input end of the cable.  These cables are used primarily for operating fixed throttles and levers that require a precise adjustment through the operation of the cable travel.  The cables can also be a set and forget due to the operation of the Micro adjustable operating head.  The cables only operate through light output loads.

Twist Lock cables are another variation on the Push Pull cable and here the operation is set by twisting the operating head through 90 degrees; setting the amount of movement required and then twisting the head back 90 degrees to lock in a fixed position until the operator chooses to make an adjustment.  The cables only operate through light output loads.

Common Applications and Industries

Mechanical control cables are used across a wide range of industries and equipment types, including:

• Mining equipment and machinery
• Agricultural tractors and harvesters
• Trucks, buses, and waste management vehicles
• Excavation and concreting machinery
• Generators and fixed plant equipment
• Earthmoving and construction equipment
• Industrial machinery requiring precise control

No matter the industry, selecting the correct cable ensures reliability, safety, and efficient operation.

Choosing the Right Control Cable for Your Application

While push-pull cables are the most commonly used, every installation has unique requirements. Factors to consider include cable length, operating environment, load type, and required precision.

If you’re unsure which control cable suits your setup, contact the Industrial & Cable Group team. Our experts have over 20 years of experience designing and custom-building control cables across Australia and New Zealand.  All our Industrial Cables are proudly Assembled in Australia.

Why Choose Industrial & Cable Group?

• Custom-built solutions: Tailored cables to suit any equipment or application.
• Fast shipping across Australia & New Zealand: From our Sydney factory.
• Expert advice: Our team can guide you to the right cable for your needs.
• 20+ years’ experience: Proven expertise in industrial, agricultural, and mobile applications.

Get in touch with us today for advice or a custom mechanical control cable solution that will perform reliably in your application.

Email:  sales@industrialandcable.com.au
Phone:  +61 2 8911 1533