What Is a Double Loop Cable Tie?

A standard cable tie creates one loop. A double-loop tie creates two. The second loop is integral to the tail — it does not require threading. This gives the installer an attachment point at the free end without needing a separate mounting base or a second tie run from scratch.

When to Use Double Loop Ties

Three main use cases justify the double-loop design over a standard tie:

1. Bundle-to-bundle anchoring. Routing one cable run parallel to and against another — the primary loop bundles Run A, and the secondary loop slips over a tie on Run B, locking the two runs together without any mounting hardware. Common in conduit, cable tray, and backbone runs.

2. Hanging from a fixed anchor. The tail loop hooks over a nail, hook, stud, or wire, suspending the bundle from above without an adhesive or screw mount. Useful for overhead runs in a space where drilling is not an option.

3. Creating a daisy chain. Multiple double-loop ties can be interlinked through their tail loops to space a series of bundles at fixed intervals along a run — a self-spacing technique used in structured cabling.

Ty-Rap and the Double Loop

Thomas & Betts, the creator of the Ty-Rap cable tie, is the best-known manufacturer of double-loop ties. The Ty-Rap double loop adds the same stainless steel locking barb as other Ty-Rap ties — so the primary loop holds with the vibration-resistant metal-barb grip, while the secondary tail loop provides the anchor. Now part of ABB Installation Products, Ty-Rap double-loop ties remain the standard specification for this tie type in industrial and electrical work. See the full Ty-Rap brand guide for more detail on the locking-barb mechanism.

Specifications & Material

Double loop cable ties use nylon 6/6 and follow the same size, tensile, and temperature conventions as standard ties. They carry the same UL 62275 listing for electrical use as other nylon 6/6 cable ties — confirm the listing on the product datasheet before specifying for NEC-governed work. The secondary loop does not change the tensile rating of the primary bundle loop — the load rating applies to the primary loop only. For applications where the secondary loop will carry load (hanging), the tie must be specified and load-checked for that use, with a 2:1 safety factor applied.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a double loop cable tie?

A double loop cable tie has two functional loops: the primary loop (formed by threading the tail through the locking head) bundles the cable group, and a second pre-formed loop at the tail provides a secondary anchor point. This lets one tie bundle a group and simultaneously anchor it to a fixed point or interlock with a second tie to join two parallel bundles.

What are double loop zip ties used for?

The main uses are: securing two parallel cable bundles to each other without mounting hardware, hanging a bundle from a hook or nail without an adhesive mount, and creating a daisy-chain spacing system for a series of bundles along a run. In all cases the advantage is the second attachment point at the tail, which eliminates the need for a separate mounting base.

Are double loop cable ties the same as Ty-Rap?

Ty-Rap is a brand, not a product type — but Thomas & Betts Ty-Rap (now ABB) makes the most commonly used double-loop ties and is the brand most often associated with the design. Ty-Rap double-loop ties add the stainless steel locking barb that distinguishes the Ty-Rap range from generic nylon ties. Other manufacturers also make double-loop ties; the design is not proprietary to Ty-Rap.

Can I hang cables with a double loop cable tie?

Yes, with the tail loop hooked over a nail, hook, stud, or wire. However, you must treat the hanging application as a load-bearing use: calculate the weight of the suspended bundle, apply a 2:1 safety factor, and confirm the tie's tensile rating covers that load. The tensile rating applies to the primary bundle loop; verify the tail loop's load capacity on the product datasheet.

Where can I buy double loop cable ties?

Cable Ties Supply stocks Ty-Rap double loop cable ties alongside the full cable tie range. Orders over $99 ship free with free returns. For bulk quantities or specific Ty-Rap part numbers, call 866-455-8437.

Conclusion

Double loop cable ties are the right tool when a standard single-loop tie cannot simultaneously bundle and anchor — two parallel runs, an overhead hook, or a daisy-chain spacing setup. The tail loop replaces the mounting base. Specify Ty-Rap for the stainless locking-barb grip; apply a 2:1 safety factor if the tail loop carries weight.

Shop Ty-Rap double loop cable ties at cabletiesupply.com/collections/ty-rap-double-loop-cable-ties. Free shipping over $99, free returns. Call 866-455-8437 for bulk orders.