Failure mechanisms in wire ropes

The inevitable attrition of wire rope in service is discussed with an overview of the consequences in terms of inspection and replacement criteria. Details are presented of specific degradation mechanisms observed in three different applications: a mine hoist rope operating on a drum winder, a mooring rope for an offshore structure and a spin-resistant single-fall offshore crane rope. In each case the mechanisms are analysed and steps outlined to alleviate the problems. It is concluded that generalisation is inappropriate: maintenance, inspection and discard policy must be determined in recognition of the degradation mechanisms that operate in different rope applications.