Wire ropes

Wire ropes and cables are devices for flexible fastening of load-bearing, guy and other structural elements. They must comply with national standards and have certificates confirming passed inspections in accordance with regulatory requirements.

Products without certificates and clearances for operation are not permitted for use. Steel wire ropes are commonly used devices for fastening and rigging. The fixing and relative positioning of ropes on cranes and other rigging elements must rule out any possibility of slipping or other damage.

A steel wire rope for operational use should be selected with regard to the safety requirements set out in RD 10-33-39, ISO 4308/1, ISO 4308/2 and a number of other regulatory documents.

Construction and material

A steel wire rope for slinging or rigging work may have a different lay type and different technical characteristics. It is used in mechanisms, fastening elements, for mast rigging, and for the production of guys and stays.

A large share of wire rope products is used to equip crane mechanisms employed in manufacturing and construction. Wire obtained by casting is used for production. The diameter of the element typically does not exceed 3 millimeters.

To prevent damage during operation, the wire may be coated with various layers. Rigging-type ropes and cables may additionally be coated with anti-corrosion grease if not galvanized.

Wire ropes are made using single, double and triple lay methods. Single-lay ropes are made from a number of individual wires. In double lay, each wire is first twisted into a complex strand, after which the strands are combined with one another. To provide flexibility, bending strength and retention of the grease that prevents rusting, a core made of hemp material is placed between the elements.

To prevent unwinding, 8-10 turns of softer wire, called a serving (marka), are additionally secured at the ends of the ropes. The lay can be made in different directions:

• Right-hand lay;
• Left-hand lay.

Ropes are classified by the number of strands as follows:

• Single-strand elements;
• Three-strand;
• Five-, six- and eight-strand.

Operating features

Before putting a wire rope into service, the number of defects must be checked. The number of broken outer wires of the steel wire rope is determined and compared against the standards. Exceeding the load on the rope is prohibited during operation.

How to choose a steel wire rope?

Before selecting a wire rope, it is important to determine the purpose of its use at the facility. It is especially important to take loads into account, in order to prevent breakage and accelerated wear of the rigging element. Before purchasing, it is worth reviewing the GOST standards and other regulatory documents relating to the permissible load.