Wire rope is a type of cable which consists of several strands of metal wire laid (twisted) into a helix. The term cable is often used interchangeably with wire rope. However, in general, "wire rope" refers to diameters larger than 3/8 inch (9..52 mm). Sizes smaller than this are designated cable or cords. Initially wrought iron wires were used, but today steel is the main material used for wire ropes.
Historically wire rope evolved from steel chains, which had a record of mechanical failure. While flaws in chain links or solid steel bars can lead to catastrophic failure, flaws in the wires making up a steel cable are less critical as the other wires easily take up the load. Friction between the individual wires and strands, as a consequence of their twist, further compensates for any flaws.
0 comments:
Post a Comment