Choosing wire rope – what to know.

Wire rope is important to a variety of businesses, especially those that use cranes, elevators, and hoist heavy equipment around. Of course, if you need to use wire rope then you need to understand the factors involved in choosing the right one. You also need to make sure you choose a reliable U.S.A based wire rope supplier

In fact, that’s the first criteria, using a supplier you can trust.

Reputation

The reputation of the supplier is extremely important. You need to know that the wire ropes they’ll be supplying are of the very best quality and won’t break at the crucial moment.

The best way of verifying a reputation is to consider your previous experience, check with other companies, and even take a look at social media to see what others have to say about specific wire rope. 

Strength

Strength is straightforward. All rope is rated for the load it will take, you simply need to make sure that rating is higher than you need it to be. 

Don’t forget to allow for the dynamic loading of your rope. For example, when you have an abrupt acceleration or deceleration, the load on the rope will dramatically increase, your choice of wire rope needs to be able to withstand the extra pressure in these situations.

Fatigue Levels

Anything that sends a shockwave through the rope is likely to cause fatigue. The more fatigue it has the quicker it will fail, which won’t be a good thing.

You’ll need to consider the system you have, smaller wire ropes are better at withstanding fatigue as they bend easier, alternatively larger diameter sheaves and drums can help to support thicker grade wire rope, ensuring you have the right product for the job.

Crushing Resistance

If external pressure is placed against your rope with enough force it will stop it from moving and the pressure will crush the rope, causing deformities.

This can prevent the rope from moving properly and cause it to weaken. If crushing is a possibility, its best to get a rope with larger outer strands, that help to make wire rope crush resistant.

 Resistance To Deformation

Just as crushing can destroy the strength of a rope, so can deformation. Roe wears by rubbing against other rope, damaging the strands and making the rope unusable. Again, larger outside wires will help to negate the effect of deformation.

Corrosion

Wire rope can be corroded if the metal in the rope is exposed to water and oxygen. Considering most wire ropes are covered with a light coating of oil they have minimal protection from corrosion. This means you need to keep them away from moisture as much as possible.  

It’s important to note that wire rope does not normally have all these impressive characteristics, if it scores highly in one category then it will likely be low in most of the other categories, which is why you need to ensure the wire rope you have is the best one for the job.

Adam Hansen
 

Adam is a part time journalist, entrepreneur, investor and father.