Wire rope corrosion is a big problem for industries that need lifting, rigging, and support systems. It happens in places like the sea and industrial sites. Moisture, chemicals, and wear can cause steel cables to deteriorate, leading to expensive failures. This guide will explain why corrosion happens and how to stop it to protect your investments.

Keeping wire cables in good shape is key to fighting corrosion. Saltwater, humidity, and abrasion are common causes. By tackling these issues early, you can make your equipment last longer and stay safe. Taking care of cranes, elevators, or offshore machines can save you time and money.

Key Takeaways

Understanding Wire Rope Basics and Corrosion Vulnerability

Wire ropes are amazing feats of engineering. But, their design and materials make them vulnerable to corrosion. Let’s look at how their construction and materials impact their durability and cost.

Composition and Structure of Wire Ropes

Wire ropes are made of steel wire strands twisted around a core. The carbon steel composition of these strands balances strength and flexibility. Ropes have wire rope core types like fiber cores for flexibility or steel cores for heavy loads.

This layered design has microscopic gaps. These gaps let moisture and chemicals in.

Core Type Material Use Case
Fiber Core Synthetic or natural fibers Cranes, elevators (flexible applications)
Steel Core Wire strands High-heat environments (mining, construction)

Why Wire Ropes Are Susceptible to Corrosion

The Economic Impact of Premature Wire Rope Failure

Preventable corrosion costs industries millions annually.

Wire rope failure costs include:

These figures show why we need to act fast to protect our investments and safety.

Environmental Factors Leading to Wire Rope Degradation

Outdoor conditions can quickly damage wire ropes. To stop this, we need to protect them from humidity effects, temperature fluctuations, and atmospheric pollutants. These factors together can weaken metal surfaces over time.

Factor Impact Common Settings
Humidity Moisture triggers electrolytic reactions between strands Coastal regions, tropical climates
Temperature Changes Expanding/contracting metal cracks protective layers Areas with seasonal freeze-thaw cycles
Industrial Pollution Acid-forming pollutants like sulfur dioxide Near factories or high-traffic roads

In coastal zones, salt-laden air and humidity speed up rust. Industrial sites expose ropes to atmospheric pollutants that form acids with rainwater. Regular checks and the right coatings are key in these places. Here’s how to adapt:

By taking these steps, we can fight environmental corrosion factors and make wire ropes last longer. Choosing the right solutions for local conditions ensures they stay strong outdoors.

The Chemical Process Behind Wire Rope Corrosion

Wire ropes are in a constant battle against chemicals. It’s important to know how metals react with their surroundings. This helps us understand why some corrosion types are more aggressive.

Electrochemical Reactions Explained

When steel meets moisture, electrons move between anode and cathode areas. This electrochemical corrosion speeds up when different metals touch, like galvanized and stainless. Oxygen in the air helps turn metal ions into oxides, weakening the structure.

Types of Corrosion Common in Steel Cables

How Corrosion Progresses Within Cable Structures

Damage often starts without being seen. Surface rust spreads inward, weakening wires. Pitting and crevice corrosion create stress points that get worse over time. If not caught, stress corrosion cracking can lead to sudden failures before signs are visible.

Saltwater Exposure: The Primary Enemy of Marine Wire Ropes

Marine wire rope in offshore settings is constantly at risk from saltwater corrosion. Saltwater’s chloride ions break through protective layers, making cables conductive and prone to oxidation. This leads to pitting and can cause cables to fail.

marine wire rope saltwater corrosion example

Why Saltwater Accelerates Corrosion

Seawater makes marine wire rope a hotspot for corrosion. Chloride ions get past the natural oxide layers, starting electrochemical reactions. Unlike freshwater, saltwater can get into tiny gaps, causing more damage in hidden spots. It’s vital to know this for keeping maritime cables safe.

Protective Measures for Marine Applications

To fight saltwater corrosion, we need to use several strategies. Here are some key ones:

Method How It Works Best For
Stainless Steel Ropes Nickel-chromium alloy resists chloride ions Harbor cranes and offshore rigs
Self-Lubricating Coatings Forms a barrier against saltwater penetration Fishing vessels and tidal energy projects
Regular Cleaning Removes salt deposits that trap moisture Maritime cable preservation in coastal areas

Companies like Crosby and Bridon make marine-grade products for salt spray protection. Steps like quarterly checks and using corrosion-fighting lubricants help cables last longer. Taking these steps keeps offshore work safe and running smoothly.

Industrial Atmospheres and Chemical Exposure Risks

Wire ropes in factories and processing plants face harsher threats than outdoor elements. Chemical corrosion resistance is key where ropes meet acid exposure, alkaline environments, or industrial pollutants in the air. These places need special solutions to prevent sudden failures.

Companies like WireTech Industries provide coatings for chemical processing safety. Stainless steel ropes resist sulfuric acid, and PTFE coatings block chlorine. Always check if the material is safe for your facility’s chemicals.

“Ignoring chemical exposure risks can void warranties and endanger workers,” warns the National Association of Corrosion Engineers (NACE).)

Regular inspections with NDT tools spot early signs of pitting. Store ropes in sealed containers to avoid corrosive air. Keep maintenance logs updated with SDS data for each chemical your ropes face. Focus on chemical corrosion resistance to extend life and meet OSHA safety rules.

Mechanical Wear and Its Relationship to Corrosion

Wire ropes face constant battles between physical strain and environmental threats. Mechanical wear creates openings for corrosion to start, forming a dangerous cycle. Abrasion damage from rubbing against machinery parts or harsh environments strips away protective layers, exposing fresh metal surfaces to moisture and chemicals. This physical harm doesn’t just weaken the rope—it primes it for faster chemical breakdown.

wire rope sheave wear inspection

Sheave wear and crushing forces during operation crack coatings, letting corrosive elements attack the core. Fatigue failure often follows as corrosion pits act like stress concentrators, making ropes snap under normal loads. Regular surface damage inspection breaks this cycle. Spotting mechanical wear patterns early prevents costly failures:

How Physical Damage Fuels Corrosion

Identifying High-Risk Wear Zones

Focus inspections on areas with frequent friction:

  1. Sheave grooves: Check for grooves deepening beyond manufacturer specs.
  2. Rope bends: Look for dark streaks indicating metal loss from repeated flexing.
  3. Drum contact points: Measure wear thickness loss exceeding 3-5% of the original diameter.

A

“Early wear detection cuts corrosion-related downtime by 40%”

according to the Wire Rope Users’ Manual.

Proper alignment of sheaves and drums reduces mechanical wear patterns. Pairing regular surface damage inspection with lubrication stops corrosion before it starts. Balancing physical protection with chemical defenses gives ropes the longest lifespan possible.

Effective Lubrication Strategies to Combat Wire Rope Corrosion

Proper lubrication is key to fight corrosion. Wire rope lubricants push out moisture and block dirt. The top products mix penetrating oils to get into tight spots and corrosion inhibitors to create strong barriers.

There are three lubricant application methods:

  1. Pressure lubricators force product deep into strands
  2. Drip systems for continuous protection in static setups
  3. Manual brushing for high-access areas

Set a relubrication schedule based on your environment. Busy ports or factories need checks every month. Indoor ropes might last 6–12 months. Always clean ropes before reapplying lubricant for full coverage.

“Neglecting lubrication cuts rope lifespan by 40%,” says a 2023 study by the Wire Rope Technical Board. Consistent care prevents costly replacements.

Follow the manufacturer’s advice when mixing products. Don’t mix penetrating oils with existing coatings unless tested. Regular checks and proper lubrication can double service life and cut downtime.

Protective Coatings and Materials: Choosing the Right Wire Rope for Corrosive Environments

Choosing the right wire rope for tough settings is key. Galvanized and stainless steel cables are top choices for fighting corrosion. This section helps you pick the best option for your project.

Galvanized vs. Stainless Steel Options

Galvanized wire rope has a zinc coating to protect it. Hot-dip galvanized is great for industrial areas, while electroplated is better for smooth surfaces. Stainless steel, like 316-grade, is best for saltwater and chemicals.

Modern Coating Technologies

Today, wire rope with synthetic jackets is strong and durable. Fusion-bonded polymers keep moisture out. Hybrid designs combine polymers with alloys for extra protection.

Cost-Benefit Analysis

Think about the whole cost of ownership, not just the initial price. For coastal projects, 316 stainless steel might be worth the extra cost. In warehouses or construction, polymer coatings can save on maintenance.

Inspection and Maintenance Protocols to Detect Early Signs of Corrosion

Regular wire rope inspection is crucial to catch corrosion early. A structured approach using proven methods ensures safety and extends equipment lifespan. Here’s how to implement effective protocols:

Creating an Effective Inspection Schedule

Risk-based schedules focus on ropes in harsh conditions first. Factors like saltwater contact or heavy loads require monthly checks. Use this checklist to set intervals:

Tools and Techniques for Thorough Examination

Method Use Case Corrosion Detection
Visual inspection techniques Surface rust, broken strands Surface-level signs
Magnetic testing Internal corrosion in ferrous materials Non-destructive analysis
Ultrasonic testing Hidden damage in critical components Deep structural flaws

Documentation Practices for Regulatory Compliance

Maintenance documentation must track every inspection. Records should include:

  1. Date, inspector name, and equipment ID
  2. Observed damage or corrosion levels
  3. Repair actions taken
  4. Retirement decisions and rationale

Clear records protect against legal risks and improve future planning.

Conclusion: Extending Wire Rope Lifespan Through Proactive Corrosion Management

A proactive corrosion management program is key to making wire rope last longer. It combines preventive maintenance and lifecycle optimization. This way, it fights off corrosion from the environment and mechanical stress.

Regular checks, proper lubrication, and choosing materials like galvanized or stainless steel help. They lower risks and cut down on maintenance costs. This makes operations safer and equipment more reliable in tough conditions.

Companies that focus on systematic strategies save money. Early action against corrosion through inspections and coatings prevents sudden failures. This approach keeps operations safe and boosts the value of wire rope investments over time.

By taking proactive steps now, businesses protect their budgets and keep workplaces safe in corrosive environments.

FAQ

What are the main causes of wire rope corrosion?

Wire rope corrosion can happen due to moisture, humidity, and chemicals. Mechanical wear and poor lubrication also play a big role in its deterioration.

How does saltwater exposure affect wire ropes?

Saltwater speeds up corrosion because it’s a good conductor. Chloride ions in saltwater can get past wire rope coatings, causing damage over time.

What are the types of corrosion commonly seen in wire ropes?

Wire ropes can corrode in several ways. These include uniform corrosion, pitting, crevice corrosion, and stress corrosion cracking. Each type can lead to failure if not fixed quickly.

Why is lubrication important for wire ropes?

Lubrication is key because it keeps moisture away, stops contaminants, lowers friction, and protects against corrosion. Regular lubrication helps wire ropes last longer and keeps operations safe.

What should be included in an effective inspection protocol for wire ropes?

A good inspection plan should include regular checks, looking for corrosion signs, and using tools like ultrasonic testing. Keeping records is also important for following rules and tracking trends.

How often should wire ropes be lubricated?

How often to lubricate wire ropes depends on where they’re used, how harsh the conditions are, and the rope type. It’s best to have a regular schedule for lubrication to fight corrosion well.

What are protective coatings, and how do they help wire ropes?

Protective coatings, like galvanization or polymers, add an extra layer of protection. They seal the wire rope, keeping moisture and dirt away from the metal.

Can environmental pollutants contribute to wire rope corrosion?

Yes, pollutants like sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides can mix with moisture to form acids. This can harm wire ropes. Knowing your local environment helps in choosing the right protection.

In the heart of San Francisco, where steep hills challenge even the most determined trams, a groundbreaking innovation emerged in the 1870s: the wire rope street railway.

Spearheaded by inventor A.S. Hallidie, this revolutionary system transformed how San Franciscans navigated the city’s challenging geography.

 

A New Era

In August 1873, the Clay Street Hill Railroad Company introduced Hallidie’s wire rope system, changing the landscape of urban transportation. Unlike traditional horse-drawn carriages, the system utilized an endless steel wire rope running in tubes below street level. It was a game-changer, allowing smooth and efficient travel across the city’s steep inclines without the need for locomotives or horses.

Imagine the bustling streets of San Francisco, packed with people and goods, all relying on technology that kept the roads clear and safe. With a gripping mechanism that could start and stop cars easily, the wire rope system provided a reliable means of transport that was not only efficient but also safer for both passengers and horses.

 

Engineering Marvels

The mechanics behind Hallidie’s invention are hugely impressive. The wire rope, 11,000 feet long with a 3” circumference, was engineered to support the weight of multiple passenger cars. It ran through a series of sheaves and pulleys, which were powered by a stationary engine. This design made speed and direction easy to control.

The wire rope moved silently beneath the streets, allowing the cars above to glide smoothly along the tracks. Not only did this improve travel times, but it also boosted the real estate market. Areas once considered inaccessible became prime locations for new homes and businesses. 

 

Lasting Impact

The success of the Clay Street Hill Railroad inspired other companies to adopt the wire rope system. This led to the establishment of additional lines throughout the city. By the end of the 1870s, the Sutter Street and California Street railroads had transitioned to this method.

The wire rope system was more than a temporary fix; it was a robust, long-term solution that reduced maintenance costs and improved the efficiency of urban transit. Gone were the days of overworked horses and the mess they left behind. San Francisco had embraced a cleaner, faster and more reliable way to move its people.

 

Spirit of Innovation

Southwest Wire Rope takes pride in carrying on the legacy of innovation that Hallidie started. Just as his wire rope changed transportation in San Francisco, we’re committed to leading the way in the industry today. Our products are built with the same grit and determination that characterized the engineers of the early San Francisco cable cars.

We know the challenges you face on the job and work hard to provide solutions that stand the test of time. Contact us today to learn how our rope can elevate your work to new heights.

As industry leaders in wire rope solutions, Southwest Wire Rope understands the importance of maintaining the integrity and performance of this essential equipment. Wire rope plays a critical role in industries such as construction, manufacturing, and shipping. Whether used for lifting, securing, or hauling, its quality and reliability directly impact operations and safety.

Proper storage is not just a best practice—it’s a fundamental requirement for ensuring longevity, performance, and operational success. This article delves into the vital reasons for proper wire rope storage and the significant benefits it delivers in terms of safety, productivity, and cost-efficiency.

 

Risks of Improper Wire Rope Storage

Improper storage of wire rope can lead to severe and costly consequences. From safety hazards to operational inefficiencies, the risks are too significant to ignore.

Safety Risks

Financial Setbacks

Decreased Performance and Reliability

 

Benefits of Proper Wire Rope Storage

Southwest Wire Rope’s expertise underscores the critical advantages of adhering to proper storage practices:

Extending Lifespan

Maintaining Safety and Compliance

Operational Efficiency

 

Quick Tips for Proper Wire Rope and Equipment Storage

  1. Store in a Dry, Cool Area: Protect ropes from moisture, chemicals, and extreme temperatures to prevent corrosion and degradation.
  2. Shield from Sunlight: UV rays can weaken the rope material; always store wire ropes in shaded or covered areas.
  3. Maintain Loose Coils: Avoid tightly coiling wire ropes, which can cause kinks and deformation. Use large, loose coils or reels.
  4. Conduct Regular Inspections: Periodically inspect stored wire ropes for wear, corrosion, or damage to identify and address issues early.
  5. Utilize Protective Covers: Shield ropes exposed to the elements with durable covers to prevent weather-related damage and contamination.

 

Prioritize Safety in Your Wire Rope Solutions

Southwest Wire Rope emphasizes that proper storage is an investment in safety, efficiency, and financial stability. By adopting best practices for wire rope storage, you can extend the lifespan of your equipment, prevent accidents, and enhance overall operational performance. Don’t leave safety and reliability to chance—partner with Southwest Wire Rope for proven storage solutions that protect your assets and operations.

For more information on our wire rope products and professional storage solutions, visit Southwest Wire Rope.

Winter presents a unique set of challenges for rigging operations, with cold temperatures, ice and snow affecting both equipment and working conditions. Ensuring safety during these months requires meticulous planning, understanding of the environment, and adherence to safety protocols.

 

Inspect Equipment Thoroughly

Before the first cold snap, do a thorough inspection of your rigging equipment. The changing temperatures can cause metal to deform or become brittle. Look for any cracks, deformities or signs of wear that would jeopardize the safety of your rigging operation. Replace suspect components before you get to work.

 

Prepare for Wind, Snow and Ice

Even if you’re used to mild winters, you can still encounter challenges from severe weather events, like the North Texas Blizzard of 2022.

High winds can catch suspended loads and make them difficult to control, while ice buildup on your equipment can create slip-and-fall hazards for your crew. Monitor weather forecasts closely, store equipment appropriately and have a plan to safely pause operations if the weather is too hazardous.

 

Account for Reduced Lifting Capabilities

Warm up equipment before operating to prevent malfunctions, check surfaces around cranes for slush and ice, cover your equipment with a weather-resistant tarp and store hardware and wire rope in climate-controlled areas.

Consult manufacturer guidelines and have a backup plan if you need to pause your operations. It is better to be overly prepared than not prepared enough.

 

Protect Your Crew

Verify your workers have cold-weather PPE, such as gloves, hats, insulated coveralls and waterproof boots. Provide warm areas for them to take breaks and rotate crews so that no one is working out in the cold for too long.

Without the proper protection, colds and illnesses are more likely to spread among your crew. Having too many people out sick can significantly delay your operations. Reduce this risk by establishing a winter action plan.

 

Demand More from Your Rigging This Winter

Don’t let the winter weather catch you off guard. Prep your rigging, protect your crew and get more done with professional rigging products from Southwest Wire Rope.

Rigging inspections are crucial for keeping your job site safe and compliant. Regular inspections help to identify hazards and prevent accidents – but what happens on the day of the inspection, exactly?

Here is a comprehensive review of what you can expect during your rigging inspection.

 

Pre-Inspection Prep

It’s important to have maintenance records, equipment manuals and other relevant documents ready before the inspector arrives. Make sure they are complete, up to date and legible.

Additionally, remove any debris from your work site and place all of your equipment back in its proper position. An organized job site plays more of a role in safety than most realize, and creates less of a red flag for inspectors when they arrive.

 

Visual Inspection

Inspections typically begin with a visual assessment of your rigging equipment. The inspector will examine your crane, wire rope, slings, tags, cables, chains, hooks, shackles and other rigging components for signs of wear and tear.

Common examples of wear on rigging equipment include corrosion, kinks and abrasion on wire rope, cranes with improper fluid levels or tire pressure and visibly warped or deformed equipment. Debris, spills and errant equipment on your work site will also be noted, along with improperly-labeled tags.

 

Load Testing

Load testing is exactly what it sounds like, and is a crucial part of any rigging inspection. It involves subjecting the lifting equipment to a load to ensure it can handle that load safely.

These tests are performed through a variety of methods, including weights and hydraulic equipment. After planning and setup, the inspector will apply a predetermined load in increments while measuring data such as strain and deflection.

Inspectors will also observe how your equipment handles its maximum load capacity in what is known as a peak load test.

 

Final Verdict

The data your inspector gathers is analyzed to determine which of your equipment needs to be repaired or swapped out. The inspector may also determine the need for operator training to ensure a safe and compliant work site. Promptly address recommendations from inspection services and schedule follow-up inspections for continued safety.

 

Get Prepared With Southwest Wire Rope

By understanding what goes on during a rigging inspection, you can better prepare your site for the visit and ensure safer lifting operations. Southwest Wire Rope offers on-site field inspection services, load testing and more to ensure work-site safety.

The advice of a qualified expert can help you ace your rigging inspection with flying colors. Contact Southwest Wire Rope today to learn more. 

 

Safety is critical during rigging operations. The right rigging hardware can mean the difference between success and failure on your work site. Here is some of the best rigging hardware for keeping your site safe and secure.

 

Shackles

When selecting shackles for a critical lift, consider load capacity, material and type. For example, if you work on a marine application, you may need a more corrosion-resistant material, such as stainless steel. For more dangerous lifts, look into safety shackles. It is always better to be too cautious than not cautious enough.

Spreader Bars

Sometimes you need custom rigging hardware to keep your job site safe, compliant and on track. One piece of hardware that is easy to customize is spreader bars. The length of these bars can be adjusted to get the best load distribution. Specialized connectors and fittings can also be added.

 

Round and Web Slings

If you need versatile lifting equipment, use both round and web slings. They are strong, durable, flexible and lightweight, which helps when you need to secure material around awkward angles. Round slings are more flexible and durable than web slings, and web slings are best for wider or finished pieces.

 

Hoists

Factors like the weight of the load and the angle of the lift are important to consider when choosing hoists for your operation. These can determine whether you go with a manual or powered hoist.

 

Plate Clamps

Plate clamps do double duty. They are used to both secure and lift loads with the help of a lifting machine. Most plate clamps are easy to use and feature a locking mechanism.

 

Eye Bolts

These are some of the most versatile pieces of rigging hardware. They can be used as a connection point for anchoring, pushing and pulling during your project. Make sure you have the best eye bolts for your operation – for example, galvanized eye bolts are great when you do not have to worry about moisture.

 

Sturdy Rigging Hardware for Your Job Site

Your rigging hardware has a significant impact on how smoothly your rigging project goes and how safe your workers are. There is no room for error on a critical lift, so choose the right hardware now to avoid problems later.

Southwest Wire Rope can help you find the right gear for a safe and secure rigging site. Whether you need stainless steel shackles, a manual hoist, powerful plate clamps or something else, we are here to help. Contact us today to get started.

Wire rope is valued in the rigging industry because of its incredible strength and flexibility. However, not all wire rope is the same – it comes in many different grades, and some grades are better suited to your project than others.

How do you know which wire rope grade you need? Let’s find out.

What Are Wire Rope Grades?

The two main parameters used to measure wire rope grades are tensile strength and breaking strength. Tensile strength is the measure of a wire rope’s ability to withstand pulling forces without breaking. Breaking strength measures the maximum load a wire rope can bear before failure.

Wire rope grades are often represented by numbers such as 6×19 or 8×25. The first number represents the number of strands in the wire rope, while the second number indicates the number of wires in each strand. These designations provide insight into the wire rope’s flexibility, strength and abrasion resistance. Generally, wire ropes with a higher number of strands and wires exhibit greater flexibility and resistance to wear.

How Do I Choose the Right Wire Rope Strength?

Choosing the right wire rope for your project depends on many factors, such as intended application and load requirements. Consider the following when making your decision:

Working Load – How much of a load will the wire rope be subject to during rigging operations? Consider both static and dynamic loads, as well as potential vibrations or shock loads.

Safety – Industry standards recommend applying a safety factor of 5:1, which means the wire rope’s breaking strength should be at least five times the anticipated working load.

Environmental Factors – Consider the temperature at your rigging site, as well as exposure to chemicals, corrosive substances and moisture levels. Choose ropes with proper coatings to withstand these conditions.

Seek Guidance – Rigging equipment and wire rope manufacturers are available to help when you need them. Ask for advice about wire rope grades, constructions and strengths for your rigging project – they will be happy to assist.

Find the Best Wire Rope for Your Project

Choosing the right strength wire rope is crucial for a safe and compliant rigging site, but it is not an intuitive decision for everyone.

Southwest Wire Rope is happy to clarify wire rope grades and offer guidance so you can make informed choices. We supply high-quality rigging equipment and offer testing and various on-site services to keep your work site safe and successful.

Contact us today to learn more and to optimize your wire rope’s performance.

While wire rope is known for its strength and durability, it is not indestructible. Core failure is one of the most common hazards, posing a potential safety hazard to those on your job site. Thankfully, there are ways to increase the lifespan of your rope and keep your project running smoothly. Keep reading to discover the best wire rope maintenance tips.

Store Wire Rope Properly

Safely and intentionally storing your wire rope extends its working life. The best way to do this is on a reel, which helps the rope maintain its shape and function by not getting tangled or kinked. Reels also make wire rope easier to store and transport. 

When storing wire rope, be sure to keep it in a cool, dry, covered and ventilated area. Make sure the rope is stored at least several inches of the ground – water damage from flooding can corrode the rope and cause its lubricant to wear off.

Clean and Lubricate Rope Regularly

The importance of wire rope lubricants cannot be overstated. They reduce friction when individual wires move over each other, and have corrosion control properties. Make sure excess grease is removed after lubricating, as lack of proper cleaning may cause dirt and water to stick to the lubricated rope. Remove any buildup of mud, salt, rocks, dirt and other debris you notice as well.

Thoroughly Inspect Rope for Wear and Tear

OSHA and ASME have strict regulations when it comes to wire rope quality. Inspect your rope for any of the following: broken wires, corrosion, heat damage, bent hooks, kinks, a shrinking diameter, rust and permanent bends.

If the rope appears damaged or deviates from the norm in any way, pull it for inspection. It’s always better to be overly cautious than to risk injury or accident later. Establishing regular inspection services before and after each use are crucial for keeping your job site safe.

Make Sure the Rope is Strong Enough

When wire rope is not the correct size, type or cannot withstand the weight you are loading, it is a recipe for disaster. Veer on the side of caution and only lift loads you know the rope can support. Review the minimum and collective breaking strengths your rope can withhold to prevent snapping, fraying and breakages.

Wire Rope Inspection Services

Southwest Wire Rope supplies rope in various diameters and strengths and provides on-site spooling and inspection services to keep your job site safe, compliant and running smoothly. 

Contact us today to schedule services or request custom lifting and mooring products. We look forward to working with you.

One of the best ways to boost performance on your rigging site is by customizing your wire rope and hardware. Not only do custom solutions help operations run smoothly and efficiently, they also keep workers safe and compliant. Does your job site have the custom equipment it needs to succeed?

Tailored Wire Rope

Quality custom wire rope can mean the difference between a successful project and a failed one. Rope can be customized through a number of factors, including strand configuration, core type, wire size and specialized coatings or fittings. Consider the needs of your project – how flexible, corrosion-resistant or able to withstand the elements does your rope need to be?

The environment you are working in can also affect how you customize your wire rope. For example, in marine applications, weight plays a critical role, which means that rope used in this environment should be incredibly durable and able to withstand underwater conditions. Galvanized aircraft cable (GAC) wire rope needs to be both strong and flexible for industrial lifting projects; factors such as diameter, length and the number of strands in the rope can affect this to varying degrees. If you are unsure about which wire rope would best suit your project, reach out to a rigging expert today.

Tailored Hardware

Like wire rope, rigging hardware that is not tailored to your project can make your site dangerous, inefficient and substantially delay projects. Hardware such as hooks, swivels, shackles and hoists can be engineered to handle load distribution, lifting heights, load capacities and environmental conditions to keep your site performing optimally.

Again, consider your project before customizing your rigging hardware. For work that requires precise alignment, a hook or swivel can provide the needed rotational freedom. If you have to lift an extremely heavy load to a great height, hoists can be customized with amplified safety features. The length of a spreader bar can be tailored for optimal load distribution, and attachment points can be modified by integrating specialized connectors or fittings, such as custom swivel hooks, eye bolts or lugs.

Custom Inspection and Maintenance

The last thing you want to do is reduce your equipment’s lifespan after putting in the effort to tailor it to your project. That’s why it’s so important to perform regular maintenance and inspections on custom wire rope and hardware, just as you would a standard piece of equipment.

Implement a comprehensive inspection schedule and always remember to follow manufacturer guidelines while maintaining your hardware and rope. When in doubt, reach out to your rigging equipment’s manufacturer – they know it better than anyone.

Straightforward Custom Rigging Solutions

You have a lot of work to do, which means high-performing, efficient, safe and reliable rigging equipment is a necessity for your job site. By requesting custom solutions, you can ensure all of these things, and more.

Southwest Wire Rope is here to get your project off the ground. We supply wire rope, fittings, slings, chains and more in a variety of strengths and sizes. Our on-site inspection services can help you identify which custom equipment would most benefit your site.

Contact us now to learn more about our professional rigging services.

Wire rope is an invention that we take for granted today, but its impact on America’s major industries can’t be overstated. Its textured history has led to a more innovative, productive and efficient country. Let’s explore how wire rope became such a behemoth here in our country.

The Origin of Rope

It is impossible to talk about wire rope in America without first understanding the rich, layered history of rope in early civilizations. The oldest ropes date back to approximately 12000 BC, and remnants of old rope have been found in Finland and Egypt, dating back 4000+ years.

Since its creation, rope has allowed us to pull and lift incredible loads that would otherwise be impossible. In 1586, the builder Frederico Fontana supervised the erection of an obelisk in Rome that took 900 men, 75 horses and many reeving systems to lift, but only through the power of rope.

Wire Rope’s Invention in Germany

In the early 19th century, the German mining official, Wilhelm Albert, developed the modern wire rope as we know it. His goal was to create a rope that was superior to hemp rope, and improve transportation within mines. When Albert’s rope was tested in 1834, it had six times the load capacity of hemp rope. Wire rope’s quality was further refined and its popularity quickly spread to Europe and North America.

Wire Rope in America

The most notable early use of wire rope in America came in 1841, when John A. Roebling used it to build suspension bridges, including the Brooklyn Bridge in 1869. Many mining and railroad companies sought to capitalize on Roebling’s success, and a number of railroad initiatives were spearheaded in 1830 and 40s Pennsylvania.

Deep shaft mining grew in popularity over the next several decades, and with it, the use of wire rope to hoist loads on inclined plane railways. The German engineering company Adolf Bleichert & Co. dominated globally in the 1870s, building aerial tramways that used wire rope and extending its reach to systems across America.

Wire rope also had a profound impact on San Francisco in the 1880s. Horses and steam engines struggled to pull trams up the city slopes, so an early version of the cable car that utilized wire rope was used instead.

Wire Rope Today

In 1983, Southwest Wire Rope’s “Gold Strand” wire rope was introduced, recognizable for its distinctive gold-colored strand. For over 40 years, Gold Strand wire rope has been synonymous with quality and innovation, and is recognized by professional rigging companies worldwide.

In coming years, wire rope will continue to aid industries across America as a powerful rigging tool in mining, manufacturing and construction. At Southwest Wire Rope, we pride ourselves on 50+ years as a quality wire rope provider. 

Explore our products online or contact us to learn more.