wire rope

Wire rope consists of several strands laid (or 'twisted') together like a helix. Each strand is likewise made of metal wires laid together like a helix. Initially wrought iron wires were used, but today steel is the main material used for wire ropes. Manufacturing a wire rope is similar to making one from natural fibers. The individual wires are first twisted into a strand, and then six or so such strands again twisted around a core. This core may consist of steel, but also of natural fibers such as sisal, manila, henequen, jute, or hemp. This is used to cushion off stress forces when bending the rope. This flexibility is particularly vital in ropes used in machinery such as cranes or elevators as well as ropes used in transportation modes such as cable cars, cable railways, funiculars and aerial lifts. It is not quite so essential in suspension bridges and similar uses. China is the leading producer of wire rope.