Wire rope balustrades are popular on the Sunshine Coast for their sleek, modern aesthetic and durability. They’re used in homes, commercial buildings, and outdoor spaces across Australia. You can see some great examples of them in action here on our gallery page - we work with local builders on these projects regularly, given the high quality nature of our products, including marine-grade stainless steel suitable for installations on or near the coast.

However, while many people are familiar with wire rope balustrades, not everyone is aware of the vital role that swaging plays in the process. In this brief article, we take a look at swaging - what it is, and why it’s an essential consideration when you’re planning a wire rope balustrade solution. 

Needless to say, if you’re looking for assistance with your wire rope balustrade solution, please contact our team for more information - we will be happy to assist.

What is Swaging?  

Wire ropes can’t function as a balustrade just by themselves. The final balustrade solution is made up of wire ropes, fittings, and posts. You can read more about these components in this article: Balustrading Hardware. 

Where does swaging come in? Fittings need to be added to the ends of wire ropes to complete them and enable them to be installed with tension between posts. The method of adding the fittings to the end of the wire ropes is to create a permanent bond by applying pressure and deforming the fitting, locking it onto the rope. This is achieved by swaging - the mechanical process of securely attaching a fitting to a wire rope. 

How is Swaging Done?

Swaging is done with a swaging press. The wire rope and the fitting are inserted into the press, pressure is applied via a die, and a permanent bond is created between the two components.

Where do I get Swaging Done?

We have a couple of options available for swaging depending on your skills, time and goals:

a. Instore

We have a swaging press instore which we use to swage your custom wire rope balustrade solutions so they’re ready to go once you pick them up. Our team cut your wire ropes to length, swage the fittings, and then they are all ready for you to pickup and install. 

b. Swaging Press Hire

We also hire swaging presses to our wire rope balustrade customers. Ask our team for more information. 

That way, you can do your own swaging, in your own time. 

Either way, the swaging press is used to compress the fittings onto the wire rope to create a permanent bond, with the strength and durability necessary to withstand tension and maintain safety over time.  

Is Swaging always necessary? 

At Bolt-In Co Sunshine Coast, we sell custom-made wire rope balustrade solutions which require swaging to complete the balustrade solution. However, there are also other ‘swageless’ solutions available on the market. In the case of these solutions, swaging may not be necessary. However, we consider swaged solutions our preferred choice for permanent or high-stress installations such as wire rope balustrades, because swaging often provides a stronger and more secure connection, and a sleeker and more polished finish. 

Swaging - How to Get Started

If you’re considering a wire-rope balustrade solution, talk to our team. We’ll let you know what’s involved and discuss the swaging options with you - instore or DIY via swaging press hire, as mentioned above. You can read more about how to organise a wire-rope balustrade solution in this article.

Swaging is a vital component of creating durable and visually appealing wire rope balustrades. By understanding the process and exploring options like our instore and DIY services, you can achieve a result that meets your expectations and requirements.

At Bolt In Co Sunshine Coast, we prioritise quality solutions and exceptional customer service to guarantee a successful and stress-free project. Whether you're upgrading your home or completing a commercial installation on the Sunshine Coast, the right approach to swaging makes all the difference. Visit us today to discover how we can help bring your balustrade project to life!