Wire Rope Basics

Wire Rope User's Handbook

In this full length handbook, learn the basics of wire rope including how to choose and measure wire rope. Additionally, you will understand the fundamental mechanics behind our most popular rope constructions and classifications. Finally, you will learn the proper way to care for and use your wire rope, including end treatments, inspection, and removal criteria.

Date of Publication: 2019
Source: Wire Rope User's Handbook (ALL PAGES) (40 pages)

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Block rotation and rope stability

Twisted hoist lines can bring a construction project to a sudden halt, resulting in downtime. But the good news is that you can minimize block rotation through proper installation, handling and corrective measures. In this reference document, you will better understand torque and gain tips on how to reduce block rotation.

Date of Publication: 2020
Source: Reference Document (2 pages)

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Choosing the right wire rope for your application

No single rope can do it all. In this reference document you will learn how the design characteristics of wire rope affects its performance.

Date of Publication: 2014
Source: Reference Document (2 pages)

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Galvanized strand products

Our galvanized strand products meet or exceed ASTM specifications A475 and ASTM A363. In this reference document (an excerpt from the Wire Rope Users Handbook), you will learn what the strands are tested for. Additionally, a chart detailing the physical properties of zinc-coated steel wire strand is included.

Date of Publication: 2014
Source: Wire Rope Users Handbook (1 page)

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Glossary of wire rope terms

Our industry has its fair share of terminology and phrases. In this reference document (an excerpt from the Wire Rope Users Handbook), you will be provided a comprehensive glossary of all Wire Rope words. From “Abrasion” to “Warrington”, your questions are answered here.

Date of Publication: 2014
Source: Wire Rope Users Handbook (2 pages)

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How to extend wire rope service life

How long will your rope last? While there is not a simple answer, there are several factors involved. In this reference document (an excerpt from the Wire Rope Users Handbook), you will the factors affecting the longevity of your ropes life. Additionally, information regarding the cleaning and lubrication of your ropes is included.

Date of Publication: 2014
Source: Wire Rope Users Handbook (2 pages)

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How to measure wire rope diameter

There is a correct methodology behind measuring of wire rope diameter. Learn this methodology in this reference document (an excerpt from the Wire Rope Users Handbook). Also, the definition of design factor is available. And finally, detailed information regarding metric conversion and equivalents is included.

Date of Publication: 2014
Source: Reference Document (2 pages)

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How to unreel, uncoil and store wire rope

Yes, there is a RIGHT way to unreel, uncoil and store a wire rope. Learn the proper steps in this reference document (an excerpt from the Wire Rope Users Handbook). Additionally, the three stages of kinking are vividly displayed.

Date of Publication: 2014
Source: Wire Rope Users Handbook (1 page)

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Importance of Rope Strands, construction and classification

Wires are the basic building blocks of a wire rope. And, a rope core will greatly impact the performance of your rope. Learn how the number of wire strands and construction determine a wire rope classification. In this reference document (an excerpt from the Wire Rope Users Handbook), you will become familiar with the standard rope classifications and special rope constructions.

Date of Publication: 2014
Source: Wire Rope Users Handbook (3 pages)

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Relationship of wire, lay and preforming to wire rope performance and operation

The types of wire, lay and performing greatly affect wire rope performance and operation. In this reference document (an excerpt from the Wire Rope Users Handbook), you will learn the basic types of wire used in ropes, the common grades of wire rope and the meaning of “lay”.

Date of Publication: 2014
Source: Wire Rope Users Handbook (2 pages)

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Rope & Finished Strand Product Descriptions

In this Product Bulletin, you will learn about the new rope description format that WireCo WorldGroup will follow in all of our product descriptions. This format will adopt symbols and designations that are part of ISO, ASTM, and other industry standards and specifications.

Date of Publication: January 2012
Source: Product Bulletin (2 pages)

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Rotation-resistant and low-torque ropes

Rotation-resistant ropes can frequently provide the best and most economical service in specific applications, when you choose, handle and use them properly. In this reference document (an excerpt from the Wire Rope Users Handbook), you will learn the difference between Category 1, Category 2 and Category 3 Rotation-Resistant Rope.

Date of Publication: 2014
Source: Wire Rope Users Handbook (3 pages)

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Specialty small ropes

Previously known as “aircraft” cable, and now known as “utility cable, these small diameter specialty ropes are used in a variety of applications, including control cables, window and door closures, different kind of remote control systems and boat riggings. In this reference document (an excerpt from the Wire Rope Users Handbook), you will learn how Union specialty small ropes are engineered and fabricated, and the special lubrication and testing they require. Additionally, a minimum breaking force and weights for 7x7, and 7x19 utility cable is included.

Date of Publication: 2014
Source: Wire Rope Users Handbook (1 page)

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Standard wire rope abbreviations and warning

Our industry has its fair share of abbreviations. In this reference document (an excerpt from the Wire Rope Users Handbook), you will be provided a comprehensive glossary of all Wire Rope words. From “PRF” (preformed) to “XIP®” (Extra improved plow steel), your questions are answered here.

Date of Publication: 2014
Source: Wire Rope Users Handbook (1 page)

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Swaged ropes and PowerFlex

Swaged ropes and “Double-Swaged” ropes provide excellent strength for some specific applications. In this reference document (an excerpt from the Wire Rope Users Handbook), you will find the definition of swaged and PowerFlex (aka double-swaged) ropes. Minimum breaking force and weights charts for 6x19, 6x36, PowerFlex, 3x19 and 3x36 ropes are included.

Date of Publication: 2014
Source: Wire Rope Users Handbook (1 page)

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Tech Report 107

Our most popular Tech Report, this Wire Rope Inspection Tech Report explains why periodic inspection of wire ropes are necessary. Learn how to properly inspect wire rope, what tools are necessary for inspection, and how to use inspection forms. Additionally, you will learn how often you should inspect your wire rope, what your ‘critical’ points are, how to inspect your end attachments, how to make an internal rope examination, how to inspect sheaves, and how to evaluate drums. Finally, you will understand how to properly measure rope diameter and rope lay.

Date of Publication: 2009
Source: Tech Report (8 pages)

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Tuf-Kote/PFV Product Bulletin

In applications where a specific length is critical, the constructional stretch can be minimized by prestretching the rope prior to installation, HOWEVER, learn why WireCo WorldGroup advises against prestretching Tuf-Kote/PFV rope. After reading this product bulletin, you will understand the rationale behind WireCo WorldGroup’s recommendation against prestretching Tuf-Kote/PFV Rope.

Date of Publication: April 2013
Source: Product Bulletin (1 page)

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Union Wire Rope Slings

Engineering and producing wire rope slings for your application is a highly specialized field - with exacting standards that we gladly live by. In this marketing flier, learn the different Union Wire Rope Sling constructions. Additionally learn more about Union Spelter Sockets (both open and closed). There are capacity and diameter charts associated with each product.

Date of Publication: 2016
Source: Product Bulletin (4 pages)

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US Made Wire Rope and Cable

In this Product Bulletin, learn the various definition of "US made wire rope" including references to the Buy American Act and the Buy America Requirement. Additionally, learn how Union wire rope meets these definitions.

Date of Publication: July 2014
Source: Product Bulletin (2 pages)

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Wire rope end treatments

Most ropes are shipped with the ends seized as they are prepared for cutting, however, in some cases, the rope requires special end preparations. In this reference document (an excerpt from the Wire Rope Users Handbook), you will learn the two chosen methods for seizing cut ends of your wire ropes. Illustrations and step-by-step instructions are included.

Date of Publication: 2014
Source: Wire Rope Users Handbook (1 page)

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Wire rope inspection

All wire ropes will wear out eventually and gradually lose work capability throughout their service life. In this reference document (an excerpt from the Wire Rope Users Handbook), you will learn why periodic inspections are critical. The purposes for inspection, guidelines around timing and choosing the right person to inspect are included. Additionally, illustrations regarding “what to look for” in a wire rope is available.

Date of Publication: 2014
Source: Wire Rope Users Handbook (2 pages)

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Wire rope wear, abuse and removal criteria

There is obvious evidence of wire rope wear and abuse, and specific criteria regarding removal of your wire rope. In this reference document (an excerpt from the Wire Rope Users Handbook), you will learn the various types of wear and abuse (illustrations included) and the exact removal criteria. A chart on when to replace your wire rope – based on number of broken wires is included.

Date of Publication: 2016
Source: Wire Rope Users Handbook (2 pages)

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XLT4 Low Torque Product Bulletin

In this product bulletin, learn why WireCo WorldGroup refers to XLT4 as a low-torque rope and not a rotation-resistant rope. Also included are the definitions of ASTM A1023 and ASME B30.5.

Date of Publication: July 2014
Source: Product Bulletin (1 page)

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