Classification of Wire Rope

Wire rope is classified according to how many wires it contains, and how they are twisted together.

Wire rope is classified according to the number of strands it contains, and how they are twisted together. The mechanical properties of wire rope are directly related to the rope's classification.

Classification Categories

Wire rope classifications consist of two numbers, the first indicating the number of strands, and the second indicating the number of wires in each strand. One of the most common classifications for wire rope is 6 by 19, which is made of six strands with 19 wires in each strand.

Wire Rope Lays

Wire rope is also classified according to the direction in which the wires in a strand are twisted, and the direction in which the strands in the rope are twisted. This is called the rope's lay, and can be either to the right, or to the left.

Classifications and Characteristics

In each classification, rope of the same size and grade has the same minimum breaking force and weight per foot. Rope belonging to different constructions within each classification have different working characteristics.

References

• Importance of Rope: Wire Rope Classifications and Features
• Integrated Publishing: Steelworker Volume 02