CAUTION

Do NOT downgrade the SWL of wire rope because it is old, worn, or in poor condition. Wire rope in these conditions should be cut up and discarded.

WIRE ROPE FAILURE

Some of the common causes of wire rope failure are the following:

Using incorrect size, construction or grade

Dragging over obstacles

Improper lubrication

Operating over sheaves and drums of inadequate size

Overriding or cross winding on drums

Operating over sheaves and drums with improperly fitted grooves or broken flanges

Jumping off sheaves

Exposure to acid fumes

Use of an improperly attached fitting

Grit being allowed to penetrate between the strands, causing internal wear

Being subjeted to severe or continuing overload

WIRE ROPE ATTACHMENTS

Attachments can be put on a wire rope to allow it to be attached to other ropes; for example, pad eyes, chains, or equipment.

END FITTINGS

Some end fittings that are easily and quickly changed are wire rope clips, clamps, thimbles, wedge sockets, and basket sockets. Generally these attachments permit the wire rope to be used with greater flexibility than a more permanent splice would allow. These attachments allow the same wire rope to be made in numerous different arrangements.

Wire Rope Clips

Wire rope clips are used to make eyes in wire rope, as shown in figure 5-8. The U-shaped part of the clip with the threaded ends is called the U-bolt; the other

Figure 5-8. - Wire rope clips