Several types of wire ropes are available for lifting and rigging. The most widespread of these is the Steel wire rope. They have replaced wrought iron as the main material used in the construction of these ropes. The iron chains had more chances of having a mechanical failure. The thicker strands used in the manufacturing of steel wire ropes are more resistant to abrasion and fatigue.
The material used in the manufacturing of a steel wire rope is non-alloy carbon steel. The carbon content of this material increases the strength and helps the rope in supporting large weights. The wires are also lubricated during the manufacturing to ensure that the friction between them is minimal, leading to less corrosion.
Composition:
A steel wire rope primarily comprises of many individual steel wires woven together to form a composite strand. A central core is present, around which the wires are helically wound. The size of the wires used is determined based on the requirements. Larger wires are more resistant to corrosion while the smaller ones have more flexibility. A suitable ratio is established depending on the purpose that the wire rope serves.
The wire rope can be constructed using any of the following styles:
· Single layer- This consists of a single wire in the center and six surrounding wires. Each of them having the Equal and same diameter.
· Filler Wire- This has two layers of the same sized wire. The number of wires in the inner layer is half as much as in the outer. Small fillers are used in the spaces between the inner layer.
· Seale- Seale has two layers with an equal number of wires. The diameter of each wire in one layer is uniform.
· Warrington- This has alternating large and small wires.
· Combination- A combination of any two methods is used to create the best suitable type depending on the requirements of the user.
Applications:
The most common purpose of wire ropes is lifting and transmitting mechanical power. The main areas of usage of a crane steel wire rope include:
· Bailing
· Hoisting
· Anchoring
· Railing or fencing
· Mining
· Forestry
· Marine industry
· Industrial manufacturing
· Construction
· Agriculture
· Electronics
· Transportation
· Security
The various types of steel wire ropes that are used are crane ropes, fishing ropes, elevator ropes, structural systems, mining ropes and titan ropes. All of these have high tensile strength and are resistant to corrosion, providing them with a long life. Understanding the specifications of a wire rope is essential to find the most suitable type depending on one’s requirements.