In today’s environment of new Seismic Bracing Codes and retroactive enforcement policies, the term RETROFIT might be on a lot of minds these days. What are your options when the code requires that past jobs be retrofitted to be compliant with current codes? In all too many instances the existing installations of HVAC and other mechanical systems, plumbing systems, and electrical cable trays, leave very little room for the installation of new seismic bracing components for Fire Sprinkler applications. Attachment of the braces to the building structure is critical, as is spacing requirements and the horizontal load factors of the bracing components. All of these factors combined can make new code compliance difficult and very expensive; especially if re-installation of entire fire sprinkler systems is necessary.

Are you getting ready to start a seismic bracing installation? Ensure you are properly prepared with all the cable, hardware, and tools you need to get the job done right. Whether you are performing an installation on new construction, or retrofitting an existing structure, Loos Seismic Bracing has all the necessary code-compliant products available in one location. Here is a quick list of the supplies you will need.

Seismic bracing cable from Loos and Company is easier and quicker to install than conventional rigid pipe bracing, which makes it the most efficient and cost-effective seismic bracing system on the market today. As an added convenience, we have made our seismic cable available in two different packaging options, bulk spools and pre-assembled kits, that provide flexibility when it comes to fabricating cable assemblies. Bulk spools are a great option for installation sites with many different brace configurations, while sway bracing kits are a valuable option for individuals looking to save time. Take a moment to learn all about the benefits of each options before starting your own seismic bracing installation.

Along with Seismic Anchoring Fittings and Zinc-Plated Oval Sleeves, we offer Low-Pry Fittings as part of our complete line of attachment hardware. Used to keep overhead equipment secure during earthquakes, these simple yet effective fittings mount quickly and easily with just a few steps.

Our web-based trade calculator, Engineer's Tools, makes it easier than ever to fill out the NFPA-13 Seismic Bracing Calculation form by guiding users through the process with step-by-step instructions. The program makes it easy to create and save designs for multiple projects all in one place, and the completed forms are available for printing so they may be submitted to the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) in your area. If you have not yet created an account, here are five reasons to use Engineers’ Tools for your seismic bracing installation.
1. Utilizes the most current seismic data
We recently updated the UL listed load ratings for our seismic cable to reflect current data. Our GO3-CBL Gold cable is now rated for 418 lbs., OR4-CBL Orange cable for 770 lbs., GR6-CBL Green cable for 1900 lbs., and BL8-CBL Black cable for 3180 lbs. Engineer’s Tools has also been updated to include these changes, which means your calculations will always derive from accurate values.

2. Optimizes your design specifications
Engineers’ Tools always flag errors or discrepancies within a seismic installation design. If you enter information that is out of spec, the calculator will automatically render a popup menu that recommends ways to adjust the design. This may include options such as increasing cable size or decreasing the distance between bracing structures. If there are no issues, the calculator will display a green icon underneath your document name to confirm that you are eligible to move to the next step.   

3. Accessible directly from the web with a mobile friendly interface
Engineers’ Tools does not rely on a software download or mobile app. Instead, it can be accessed anywhere with an internet connection by visiting https://tools.loosseismicbracing.com/. The program also has a mobile friendly interface, which means you can create new designs, or access existing files in the field with your cellphone or tablet.  

FELCO cable cutters are recognized worldwide for their high quality and precision cutting capabilities. As the industry standard cable cutting tool, FELCO tools feature a unique design that cuts cable from all sides at the same time. Not only does this prevent unintended crushing of the cable strands, but it also eliminates the frayed ends that normally make swaging difficult. The C7 and C9 models are both staples in workshops and manufacturing facilities across the world, which is why we wanted to take a moment to outline their individual features and characteristics.

If you are getting ready to install a large seismic cable system, you may want to consider choosing a battery-powered swaging tool over a manual swaging tool. Battery swaging tools help increase efficiency, and reduce strenuous manual labor during seismic bracing installations, especially in cramped corners or overhead workspaces. As an upgrade from traditional swaging tools, our battery operated Locoloc swagers perform accurate, repetitive motions with ease, allowing you to save time by quickly moving from cable to cable. They are also compatible with all of our seismic bracing cable, which means you can complete all swaging functions with just one tool.

Loos and Company manufactures four different load ratings of seismic bracing cable. Used to defend building structures against earthquake activity, they can be installed in new or existing buildings with the addition of attachment hardware. They are powder coated according to their rating, making it easy to ensure you are using the correct product throughout your entire installation process. Options include: #G03-CBL (gold), #OR4-CBL (orange), #GR6-CBL (green), and #BL8-CBL (black).

We have discussed in our past blogs the importance of properly installing seismic bracing cable. From calculating the design and selecting the proper cable, to operating swaging tools and implementing the final installation, each stage is equally critical. Though it may seem that the cable is the most important part of the bracing system, the hardware has also has a significant impact on the way the total cable bracing system performs. That is why, in addition to retrofit hardware, we also manufacture traditional seismic anchoring fittings. Here are a few key differences between our SAF and SAF2 fittings.

When properly installed, fittings maintain the break strength of their respective cables without the need for a thimble. This allows installers to use smaller cables and cable kits instead of bulkier, oversized cables that require hand-tightened fittings. With the correct tools and guides from our website, you can easily cut, swage, and install seismic cable that has the capacity to protect infrastructure from destructive earthquake activity.