Elliott Digger Derrick - Synthetic Rope Usage, Inspection, and Retirement; Rope Selection; Strength

Synthetic Rope Usage EEC-0060 V1.2
Synthetic Rope Usage,
Inspection, and Retirement
Rope Selection
Selecting a rope involves evaluating a combination of factors. Some of these
factors are straightforward, like comparing rope specifications. Others are not easily
quantified, like color preference or how a rope feels ln your hand. Cutting corners,
reducing sizes, or strengths on an initial purchase creates unnecessary replacements,
potentially dangerous conditions, and increases long-term costs.
Elliott Equipment currently uses both Yale and Samson rope products in 9/16”
(yellow) and 5/8” (blue) sizes.
Fiber and construction being equal, a larger rope outlasts a smaller rope because
of the greater surface wear distribution. Similarly, a stronger rope outlasts a weaker one
because it will be used at a lower percentage of its break strength with less chance of
being overstressed.
NOTE: Always consult the manufacturer before using rope when personal safety
or possible danger to property is involved. Make sure the rope is adequate for the job.
Do not use rope that is too small or the wrong type.
The following areas should be considered in your rope selection.
Strength
When given a choice between ropes, select the strongest of any given size. A
load of 200 pounds represents 2 percent of the strength of a rope with a breaking
strength of 10,000 pounds. The same load represents 4 percent of the strength of a
rope that has a breaking strength of 5,000 pounds. The weaker rope is having to work
harder, and as a result will have to be retired sooner. Braided ropes are stronger than
twisted ropes of the same size and fiber strength.
Note carefully the quoted breaking strengths of the various products. These are
average breaking strengths. Published breaking strengths are determined by standard
cordage testing and do not cover conditions such as sustained loads or dynamic
loading. These strengths are attained under laboratory conditions. Remember also that
this is a breaking strength, not a recommended working load.