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Tutorial: How to Tension a Steel Wire with the Maxtensor System by Cavatorta

At Fenceshop, we always support those who want to build a strong, professional fence by offering quality products and practical DIY tutorials. In this detailed guide, we’ll explain step by step how to tension a steel wire using the Maxtensor system by Cavatorta—a modern, efficient, and easy-to-use solution for achieving perfect tension in your fence installations.

When and Why to Use Steel Wire in a Fence

Steel wire is essential to ensure the strength and stability of important fences, such as perimeter fences for private areas, sports facilities, or for structures that demand robust support. It’s important to note that the steel wire should be installed on suitable posts, preferably rounded and of significant strength, and not on standard lightweight posts. This guarantees both the safety and long-lasting durability of your fence.

Tools and Materials Needed

• Steel wire of adequate diameter (in this example, 4 mm).
• Cavatorta Maxtensor MXL2 tensioners, specifically for 4 mm wires, though also available for smaller diameters.
• Maxtensor pliers, designed especially for tensioning the wire.
• Quality wire cutters (such as HELL), essential for cutting the wire precisely and effortlessly.
• Insulating tape or fix-ties for securing any excess wire.

Steps: How to Tension the Steel Wire

1. Preparing the Frame

Prepare the fence frame, making sure that the starting and ending posts are firmly fixed and suitable for withstanding the wire’s tension. Keep in mind that the example uses a display frame to demonstrate the process, but in practice, your structure needs to be robust.

2. Inserting the Maxtensor Tensioner

The Maxtensor tensioner is not just for tensioning—it also acts as a wire clamp. Each tensioner has two slots that make threading the wire easier. Insert the steel wire into the designated slot, ensuring you follow the direction of the wire’s twisting. Once inserted, the wire can only move in one direction and cannot be pulled back out, so carefully position it before fixing it in place.

3. Securing the Wire to the Post

Run the wire around the post (or through the special hole, if there is one), then insert the free end into the second slot on the tensioner. Pull the wire by hand as tightly as possible for an initial tension. Trim any excess wire, leaving about 10 cm, which you can secure with insulating tape or a fix-tie for a tidy finish.

4. Repeating the Operation on the Other Post

Repeat the same steps on the opposite end of the fence, making sure the wire is evenly tensioned on both sides. Use wire cutters to trim any excess, ensuring a clean cut with little effort.

5. Tensioning the Wire with the Maxtensor Pliers

Now it’s time to tension the steel wire. The Maxtensor pliers are designed for simplicity and effectiveness: simply open them, insert the wire into its slot, and close. Inside, a spring and wheel mechanism ensure a secure grip. By moving the pliers, the wire is gradually pulled tight. Once you’ve reached the desired tension, the system locks the wire in place, preventing it from slipping back.

6. Joining and Adding Wires (if needed)

If you need to join two lengths of wire, you can use a third Maxtensor tensioner to create a precise and secure joint—without the need for cumbersome traditional clamps.

Advantages of the Maxtensor System

• Simplicity: The system is intuitive, making it suitable even for those without much experience.
• Speed: Compared to traditional tensioners with eyes and clamps, Maxtensor saves you time and reduces the need for accessories.
• Aesthetics and Functionality: The end result is clean and professional, with fewer visible parts and greater solidity.
• Reliability: Steel wire tensioned with this system can handle significant loads (in this example, up to 900 kg), ensuring safety and fence longevity.

Practical Tips

• Always use quality wire cutters for trimming the wire—professional-grade cutters will help you avoid fatigue and get precise results.
• Check that your wire diameter matches the chosen Maxtensor tensioner model.
• Secure any excess wire carefully for a neat appearance and to prevent injury risks.

Where to Find Products and Support

At Fenceshop you’ll find everything you need to build a fence with steel wire: from the Cavatorta Maxtensor system to wire cutters, wires, and fixing accessories. We’re always available for advice and technical support, both through our video tutorials and via our customer service.

If you have any questions or want to share your experience, leave a comment—we’re always happy to respond!

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