Wire rope is a sophisticated, high-strength lifting and structural mechanism composed of several metal wires twisted into strands, which are then helically laid around a central core. It functions as a complex 'machine' with many moving parts that must interact to support, lift, or tow heavy loads
1. Basic Components
Wires: The individual metal filaments (usually high-carbon steel) that form a single strand.
Strands: Two or more wires twisted in a specific arrangement. Strands are laid helically around a core.
Core: The foundation of the rope. It can be a Fiber Core (FC) (for flexibility) or an Independent Wire Rope Core (IWRC) (for strength, heat resistance, and crush resistance).
Lubrication: Applied during manufacturing to reduce friction between wires and protect against corrosion.