Know your rope.
Make better decisions.
An introduction to construction, core, finish and technical specifications.
6 × 19 + IWRC
6 refers to the outer strands and 19 to the wires in each outer strand. IWRC is an independent wire rope core. Constructions with the same wire count can behave differently because wire arrangements and diameters vary.
Technical terms, clear meanings.
| Term | Meaning | Selection consideration |
|---|---|---|
| FC | Fibre core | Consider flexibility, temperature and crushing conditions. |
| IWRC | Independent wire rope core | Metallic section and internal support differ; check system compatibility. |
| WSC | Wire strand core | Defines the core construction; not the same as IWRC. |
| S / W / F / WS | Seale / Warrington / Filler / Warrington-Seale | Describes wire layering and arrangement within the strand. |
| MBF / MBL | Minimum breaking force | Not the permissible working load. |
| WLL | Working load limit | Determined with the system, terminations and operating conditions. |
| D/d | Sheave / rope diameter ratio | Check manufacturer requirements for bending conditions. |
Before you specify.
Are galvanized and stainless steel ropes the same?
No. Galvanized rope uses zinc-coated steel wires. Corrosion behaviour in stainless steel rope is linked to alloy composition. Environment and material grade are evaluated together.
How do I choose between 304 and 316?
Consider chlorides, humidity, temperature and cleaning conditions. 316 may offer advantages in some corrosive environments; no grade guarantees immunity in every environment.
How is PVC-coated rope diameter specified?
Specify steel rope diameter and overall coated diameter separately. For example, 3/5 mm means a 3 mm steel rope and a 5 mm overall diameter; confirm the notation explicitly on the quotation.
Is breaking force the same as lifting capacity?
No. Working load depends on the applicable standard, design factor, termination efficiency, sling angle and equipment conditions. Diameter or breaking force alone does not establish safe lifting capacity.
Does rotation-resistant rope never rotate?
Rotation resistant does not mean zero rotation. Construction, load and system arrangement matter. Installation conditions, including swivel use, must follow manufacturer instructions.
What should I send for a quotation?
Provide application, diameter, construction, core, finish, length/quantity and required documentation. Include the existing rope label or technical specification if available.
Documentation and inspection
Final selection must be verified against the equipment manufacturer’s specification and the selected rope’s current documentation. Inspection, lubrication and discard criteria must be applied by competent persons. This page is an introductory selection guide.