A wire rope is a combination of wires and strands in a helical formation around a central core. The main components of wire rope are the core and the outside strands.

The direction and arrangement of the strands and how they are laid relative to the direction of the rope, imparts special characteristics to the performance of the wire rope for various applications.

MAIN COMPONENTS OF WIRE ROPE
Core: A rope core serves as a foundation for the strands, it keeps the rope round and the strands properly positioned during operation. The choice of core will have an eff ect upon the rope’s performance.

Wires: The wires are the building blocks of wire ropes and are made up of high carbon steel.
Strand: Each individual wire is arranged around a central wire to form a wire strand.

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
• Wire rope will fail if worn out, shock loaded, overloaded, misused, damaged, improperly maintained or abused
• Always inspect wire rope for wear, damage or abuse before use
• Never use a wire rope which is worn out, damaged, corroded or abused
• Never overload or shock load a wire rope
• Use the correct design factor for application
• Inform yourself: Read and understand the machinery manufacturers handbook and guidance from the wire rope manufacturer
• Refer to applicable directives, regulations, standards and codes concern inspection, examination and
rope discard criteria

​

CONSTRUCTION

The actual range of wire rope constructions is wide and varied due to many diff erent applications.
 

In general, a large number of small size wires and strands produce a flexible rope with good resistance to bending fatigue. These ropes are ideal for ‘running’or moving ropes such as winches and hoist type applications when the wire ropes run through sheaves. Examples of this would be 6X41 or 8X36.
A fewer number of thicker wires and strands produce a less fl exible rope with good resistance to abrasion (wear) and corrosion. These are ideal for scraper, stays and static type applications. The rope construction is also important for tensile load (static, live or shock) abrasive wear, crushing, corrosion and rotation. Examples of this type would be 6X19 or 6X7.

​

MAIN TYPES OF WIRE ROPE CORE:

​

FIBRE CORE (FC)

Polypropylene or natural fibres are used as the core. Excellent flexibility and lubricant retention.

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

INDEPENDENT WIRE ROPE CORE (IWRC)
A small wire rope is used as the core. Excellent crush and distortion resistance with longer fatigue life and higher breaking strength

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

WIRE STRAND CORE (WSC)

A single strand is used as the core. Simple and cost effective - suitable for small diameter rope​