The inherent danger of working in a construction zone should come as no surprise. However, what is truly alarming is that construction accounts for 20% of all worker fatalities nationwide. Regrettably, every year, thousands of construction workers suffer severe injuries due to frequent hazards or job-related mistakes.

OSHA has designated the primary causes of injuries and fatalities in construction as the “Construction’s Fatal Four,” comprising:

1. Falls (accounting for 33.5% of all fatalities)
2. Struck by work objects (responsible for 11.1%)
3. Electrocutions (contributing to 8.5%)
4. Caught-in, compressed, or crushed incidents by collapsing structures, equipment, or materials (making up 5.5% of fatalities).

As evident, a significant number of fatalities and injuries are attributed to equipment malfunctions, particularly concerning overhead lifting and rigging equipment. This hardware is extensively utilized at most construction sites, enduring substantial wear and tear.

Failure to conduct proper inspections can lead to disastrous consequences, such as load breakage or slippage during overhead lifting operations.

While OSHA mandates pre-use inspections for all overhead lifting and rigging equipment, strict enforcement is not always observed at worksites. Additionally, not all workers receive specialized training to recognize signs of wear or indications that the rigging equipment requires repair or replacement. This poses considerable risks to the team’s safety and production efficiency.

To address these concerns, here are some essential tips to identify major issues that may render rigging equipment unsafe or damaged:

Synthetic Slings

 

Synthetic slings, typically constructed from durable materials like polyester webbing or nylon, possess impressive strength and resilience. Their soft texture makes them ideal for handling delicate or scratch-prone loads, providing essential protection.

However, despite their robustness, these materials are not impervious to damage. With prolonged use, they may experience stretching, especially when handling extremely heavy loads. Additionally, sharp corners on loads can gradually wear down the fibers, causing micro-tears. Should the stitching become compromised, the synthetic sling could tear, potentially resulting in loads slipping or falling out of the sling. Vigilant inspection and maintenance are crucial to ensuring the continued safe and reliable use of synthetic slings.

Alloy Chain Slings

 

Alloy chain slings are a common choice for heavy-duty lifting tasks due to their exceptional strength and capacity to handle hefty loads effortlessly. Nevertheless, misuse and neglect can lead to severe damage and potential snapping or breaking of the chains.

When nearing their maximum weight load limit, alloy chain slings can stretch up to 20% of their total length. However, if they are consistently overloaded or extended beyond their rated capacity, the links may suffer permanent elongation or bending. Additionally, when used at angles greater than 60°, alloy chains are prone to damage.

During inspections of alloy chains, it’s essential to watch out for signs of potential damage, such as:

1. Non-uniform link shapes or sizes
2. Difficulty in moving the chain fittings (indicating a loss of flexibility)
3. Presence of rust, nicks, or visible signs of wear

If any links display signs of damage, immediate replacement is necessary. Individual replacement links can be acquired from reputable rigging equipment suppliers. Proper care and regular inspections are vital to ensuring the ongoing safety and reliability of alloy chain slings during heavy-duty lifting operations.

Wire Rope Corrosion

 

Improper maintenance can lead to significant wear in wire ropes. Although many wire ropes are galvanized for rust protection, this coating can chip and wear off over time, leaving the wire core vulnerable to rust and corrosion.

Friction is another culprit causing damage, especially when a particular spot is subject to repetitive movement. This is common with wire ropes used for overhead lifting, as they are repeatedly rotated through pulley systems, gradually reducing their strength.

To ensure safety, thoroughly inspect the wire rope for various distortions, including kinking (permanent bends in the strands), birdcaging (strands separating and forming a “caged” effect around the core), broken wires, corrosion, and damaged fittings.

In cases of significant damage, it is essential to remove the affected section entirely. However, minor tears can sometimes be repaired by wrapping the wire around the broken piece and welding it together. Regular inspection and timely repairs are crucial for maintaining the integrity and performance of wire ropes during lifting operations.

2. Rigging Hardware

Before attaching any piece of rigging hardware to overhead lifting equipment, it is crucial to conduct thorough inspections. Hooks, shackles, turnbuckles, eye bolts, and hoist rings should all undergo careful examination prior to use.

During the inspection process, be vigilant for the following key “red flags”:

1. Rust spots, scratches, or dents
2. Shackles that do not fit snugly or are not rated appropriately for the intended load
3. “Frozen” or stuck ring bolts caused by overloading
4. Missing pieces, such as latches or pins

When acquiring rigging hardware, prioritize high-quality industrial hardware, preferably opting for brand-new equipment. Some suppliers might offer used hardware, which could have repair marks from welding or modifications. This could weaken the hardware and make it more prone to breaking or bending, compromising safety during lifting operations. Investing in well-made, new equipment ensures the reliability and longevity of rigging hardware.

Conclusion

Safety must always remain the utmost priority on any construction site, particularly during overhead lifting operations. Thoroughly inspecting equipment is a critical and serious aspect of the process, ensuring smooth production and preventing any hazardous errors or malfunctions.

Understanding precisely what to observe during inspections, along with implementing proper care and maintenance for all rigging equipment, holds immense significance. This approach not only prolongs the lifespan of overhead lifting machinery and hardware but also minimizes the occurrence of injuries and accidents. By taking these precautions seriously, construction sites can foster a safer working environment and maintain productivity without compromising on safety.

Get in Touch with A Rigging Equipment Supplier Today!

Here it is, a comprehensive overview of Rigging Equipment, shackles, and wire rope. These three elements play a vital role in rigging and lifting operations across various industries. However, due to the extensive range of hardware available, it’s essential to opt for an industrial hardware supplier that ensures top-notch quality with every purchase, just like Elite Sales!

At Elite, we boast an impressive selection of Rigging Equipment and wire ropes that cater to your project needs. Our branded products are meticulously designed to empower clients in their specific industries, enabling them to succeed. For further details, don’t hesitate to reach out to us today!

If you’re new to rigging, you may have heard the terms master links, shackles, and wire ropes thrown around without much context. And while there’s plenty of specific and technical information on them online, it’s never clear why they’re so essential.

Wire ropes, master links, and shackles are used to secure loads, transfer weight, and offer stability. They’re crucial to several industries, including construction, mining, oil and gas, marine, transportation, and aerospace.

The right type of rigging hardware can make or break your project, meaning you must understand what to choose. To help you with this, we have compiled this short guide on the various master links, shackles, and wire ropes offered by most industrial hardware suppliers.

Wire Ropes, Master Links, and Shackles: A Quick Breakdown

As mentioned, master links, wire ropes, and shackles are important lifting essentials. Let’s explore each of them in detail.

Types of Master Links

Master links are heavy-duty connectors attaching multiple chains or slings to a single load. Usually made from alloy steel, this rigging hardware enables secure and stable connections between a load and the lifting equipment.

Like with most rigging devices, master links come in a wide range of shapes and sizes, such as:

• Standard Master Links: These master links have a large opening at one end that lets you attach chains or slings easily. The other end has a smaller opening that connects with the lifting equipment. Some standard master links also have a safety latch to prevent accidental disengagement.
• Pear-Shaped Master Links: These master links are wide at one end and resemble a pear. They’re often used to accommodate thicker, larger chains.
• Oblong Master Links: With these master links, you get a straight, rectangular shape that distributes the load evenly across multiple chains or slings.
• Sub-Assemblies: Master link sub-assemblies typically include a master link with two or more hooks or shackles that offer multiple lifting points on a single load.

You must select the correct type of master link for your specific rigging application. A reputable industrial hardware supplier can help you take your pick.

Uses of Master Links

Master links are used in a plethora of industries, namely:

• Heavy Lifting: Master links are indispensable to projects that involve hoisting large machinery or heavy equipment.
• Marine: Because master links can withstand harsh environmental conditions, they are often used for marine applications like mooring and towing.
• Construction: When combined with other rigging components like wire rope, master links can lift and rig objects like steel beams, precast panels, and concrete forms.

To say master links are crucial to rigging and lifting would be an understatement. Not only are they incredibly versatile, convenient, and efficient, but they also reduce the risk of uneven loading and potential accidents.

Types of Shackles

A shackle, also known as a shackle bolt, is a U-shaped piece of metal secured with a clevis pin or bolt. Ideal for use with lifting slings and tow ropes, shackles help fasten and rig heavy loads.

Shackles often make the final link in a sling or chain setup, where their function is to establish a robust connection between the load-lifting device and the object.

Although master links shackles come in multiple varieties, they all have two main components- the body and the pin. The body can have an anchor-like shape (the Dee shackle) or a chain shape (the Bow shackle).

Let’s explore a few types of shackles.

• Screw Pin Shackles: These shackles have a removable screw pin for easy attachment/detachment. They are more suited to non-permanent applications.
• Bolt-Type Shackles: They come with a bolt threaded through the shackle’s body to ensure a secure connection. Bolt-type shackles are used in applications where the load is static and the connection is nearly permanent.
• Round Pin Shackles: Designed to be easy to install and remove, round pin shackles have a circular pin held together by a cotter pin. They are ideal for applications needing frequent disassemblies, like towing, suspension, or tie-downs.
• Chain Shackles: This rigging hardware connects chains and is commonly used to lift loads.

Choosing the right master links shackles for the right job can help ensure safety and efficiency. Always consult an industrial hardware supplier if you don’t know which shackle to use.

Uses of Shackles

Shackles are incredibly versatile rigging hardware used across several industries. A few of them include:

• Rigging and Lifting: Shackles help connect lifting equipment like slings, hoists, and cranes to aid rigging and lifting operations.
• Marine Industry: Besides towing and cargo handling, shackles are used to secure boats and anchors to mooring lines.
• Recreational Activities: Shackles connect ropes and cables in recreational activities, such as camping, rock climbing, and boating.

Types of Wire Rope

A well-loved staple in rigging and lifting operations, wire rope is a collection of metal strands twisted and braided together to form a helix. The wires are typically made from high-tensile steel, and the number/way they’re twisted can vary depending on the rope’s desired strength and flexibility.

Wire rope can come in various sizes and configurations, a few of them being:

• Standard Wire Ropes: A typical 6×25 rope has 150 wires in its outer strands forming a complex pattern around the core. They may be coated with zinc or plastic for additional protection.
• Rotation-Resistant Wire Ropes: This type of wire rope has a special construction that resists rotation, making it ideal for hoisting and lifting operations where the load must remain steady.
• Compacted Wire Ropes: Carefully constructed with a reduced diameter and increased strength, compacted wire ropes are great for heavy-duty lifting and rigging applications.
• Stainless Steel Wire Rope: As the name suggests, these wire ropes are crafted from high-grade stainless steel, which offers excellent corrosion resistance.

There are plenty of factors to consider when selecting wire ropes for your project, including load capacity, flexibility, and overall durability. Do your research in advance to maintain compliance with industry standards.

Uses of Wire Ropes

Wire rope is essential to several industries, such as:

• Lifting and Hoisting: Wire ropes are used with cranes, hoists, and other lifting equipment for heavy-duty lifting operations.
• Mining and Construction: This rigging hardware is the go-to for mooring, towing, and anchoring boats and ships, as well as for fishing nets and traps.
• Agriculture: Wire ropes can help lift bales of hay and other heavy loads on farms.
• Transportation: Sturdy wire ropes secure cargo loads on trucks, ships, and other vehicles.

How to Install a Master Link?

Installing a master link and shackle might sound hard on paper, but it’s incredibly easy once you know the basics. Here’s a quick guide on how to install a master link like a pro.

• Make sure the master link matches the size and strength of the chain or wire rope.
• Use pliers or a wrench to remove the retaining clip/pin and open the master link.
• Insert one end of the chain or wire rope into the open end.
• Place the retaining clip back onto the master link and secure it.
• Use a tensioning device to adjust the chain or wire rope.

A few safety tips to follow in this regard. First, always make sure the master link, shackle, or wire rope is safe to use and free from damage or defects. The last thing you want is to use damaged equipment.

Additionally, remember to wear appropriate personal protection equipment, like gloves and safety glasses, when handling shackles, master links, or wire ropes.

Get in Touch with A Seasoned Industrial Hardware Supplier Today!

There you have it: an in-depth rundown on master links, shackles, and wire rope. All three components are crucial to rigging and lifting operations and are used across several industries. But given the overwhelming variety of hardware, it’s best to choose an industrial hardware supplier that guarantees quality with every purchase- like Elite Sales!

At Elite, we have an impressive collection of master links, shackles, and wire ropes to meet your project goals. Our brand products are designed to help clients compete successfully in their respective niches. For more information, get in touch with us today!

Turnbuckles are part of almost all tension-related construction and rigging applications. Also known as bottlescrews, this rigging hardware is used to tighten and adjust cables, ropes, and wires.

Most turnbuckles consist of two end fittings- eye bolts or hooks- connected by a threaded metal bar or rod. The threaded rod helps adjust the length of the hardware, which changes the tension of the rope or cable it was attached to.

As with any rigging hardware, you must use turnbuckles correctly to ensure safe and effective operations. Because turnbuckles often secure heavy loads, improper usage can result in accidents, injuries, or property damage.

Additionally, using turnbuckles correctly keeps you compliant with industry standards and prevents potential penalties/legal issues.

In this post, we’ll discuss the correct ways to operate heavy-duty turnbuckles for your rigging projects. Let’s dive in!

How to Choose Heavy-Duty Turnbuckles

The first step in using turnbuckles is to choose the right type of hardware for the job. Typically, turnbuckles fall into seven categories based on their end fittings.

• Hook-and-Eye
• Jaw-and-Jaw
• Hook-and-Hook
• Eye-and-Eye
• Stub-End
• Toggle-and Swage
• Clevis-and-Clevis

Since turnbuckles often act as connectors, it’s crucial to pick them carefully. The last thing you’d want is an on-site accident because you didn’t use the right hardware.

A few factors to consider when choosing turnbuckles are:

• Material: The material of the turnbuckle hardware must be compatible with the ropes, chains, and cables in use. For example, stainless steel ropes/cables require stainless steel turnbuckles.
• End Fittings: Check out the fittings on your rope ends to decide what type of heavy-duty turnbuckles you’ll need. Ropes with hook ends must be paired with hook-and-eye turnbuckles, and so on.
• Environment: Consider where the turnbuckle hardware will be used. Some projects may call for corrosion and heat-resistant turnbuckles.
• Load Capacity: The turnbuckle’s load limit should be equal to or greater than the weight of the load.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Proper Turnbuckle Usage

Most turnbuckles are designed to operate in a specific way. So, when they aren’t used correctly, they won’t work as intended. For example, overtightening the turnbuckle hardware may cause it to fail, leading to load damage.

Fortunately, turnbuckle usage isn’t rocket science. There are a few steps to follow in this regard.

Step – 1. Determine the Correct Size and Type

First, carefully consider the turnbuckle hardware’s load, fit, and corrosion resistance capacities. Picking a turnbuckle that’s too large or too small for the load can make it difficult to adjust and tension it. Also, if you’re using the hardware in a particularly hazardous environment, check whether it can withstand the conditions without giving out.

Step – 2. Prepare the Location for the Turnbuckle Installation

Before installing the heavy-duty turnbuckles, examine if the components are strong enough to support the load. Also, leave enough space in between to allow for proper tensioning.

Step – 3. Install and Tighten the Turnbuckle

Now for the fun part: here’s how to install turnbuckle hardware hassle-free.

• Unscrew the end-fittings from the body until fully extended.
• Connect them to either side of the components at the desired securement point. For a jaw-end fitting, place the securement point between the clevis ears, thread the bolt through, and screw it shut.
• Rotate the turnbuckle to move the ends closer until you reach the desired tension.
• Tighten the nuts if in use.

A quick word of advice. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for heavy-duty turnbuckles. And, as with all rigging equipment, remember to keep the turnbuckle’s Working Load Limit (WLL) in mind.

Turnbuckle Usage: Best Practices

Risk management is a big part of rigging and lifting. It’s crucial to follow best practices when using turnbuckles to mitigate potential hazards, protect workers, and ensure safe/compliant operations. A few turnbuckle usage best practices to follow include:

• Check the turnbuckle regularly for wear and tear. Make sure there are no visible signs of damage. In case you spot any disrepair, replace the heavy-duty turnbuckles immediately.
• Always lubricate your turnbuckle hardware to reduce friction, prevent corrosion, and minimize noise during operation.
• Use turnbuckle covers to protect your hardware against the elements when not in use.

When it comes to rigging equipment, a little proactive maintenance can go a long way. Talk to an industrial hardware supplier if you don’t know how to take care of your turnbuckle hardware.

Safety Tips When Using Turnbuckles

Safe turnbuckle usage can help prevent untoward accidents on your project site. After all, you don’t want your people or property to come in harm’s way. To that end, we have compiled a few safety tips to follow.

• Always wear appropriate personal protection equipment, such as gloves and safety glasses, when handling turnbuckles.
• Only use heavy-duty turnbuckles that are rated for the load they will bear.
• Never overload the turnbuckle hardware.
• Inspect the turnbuckles before each use.

Contact Your Trusted Industrial Hardware Supplier Today!

Although turnbuckles are simple to use, you must know how to work them properly to make the most of your rigging hardware. We hope this article has helped you understand what turnbuckles are, how they function, and how to use them for your rigging assemblies.

Looking for reliable heavy-duty turnbuckles in your area? Trust Elite Sales Inc! As a leading industrial hardware supplier, we have all the equipment you need to make your projects successful. Feel free to reach out to us today for more information!

Rigging, hoisting, and lifting have been an integral part of human civilizations for centuries. The construction of Pyramids in Egypt is the earliest evidence of this technique, when architects used ropes, pulleys, and other tools to lift and move heavy objects manually.

Since then, the science of hoisting and rigging has come a long way. But even today, it remains at the heart of many industries, including construction, manufacturing, and transportation. That’s why the global hoists market is estimated to reach $2.558 billion in 2026 at a CAGR of 6.03%.

But, you need safe rigging practices and procedures to ensure workers’ safety, prevent damage to materials, and maintain project timelines. That can only be achieved with a thorough understanding of hoisting and rigging fundamentals. 

Understanding Hoisting and Rigging Fundamentals

Hoisting and rigging often go hand in hand. Hoisting involves lifting or raising heavy objects or loads using mechanical devices like cranes, hoists, and pulleys. On the other hand, rigging refers to attaching and securing the load to the hoisting equipment.

What is the Purpose of Hoisting and Rigging?

The purpose of hoisting and rigging is to safely lift and move heavy loads, such as equipment, materials, and structures, from one location to another. These tools reduce the time and labor required to move heavy loads manually.

Additionally, lifting equipment can help minimize the risk of injury or damage to equipment, structures, and personnel. But you can achieve this with only proper rigging and hoisting guidelines.

Types of Hoisting and Rigging Equipment

When you visit a hoisting and rigging equipment supplier, you can find different tools, each created for specific applications and load capacities.

Some common types of equipment include:

• Cranes like carry-deck Cranes, crawler cranes, floating cranes, rough terrain cranes, and truck-mounted cranes.
• Hoists like electric hoists, wire rope hoists, manual hoists, and pneumatic hoists.
• Wire rope slings made of different grades of steel, wire strands, and tensile strength.
• Rigging hardware such as hooks, links, and turnbuckles.
• Shackles such as snap shackles, twist shackles, and headboard shackles.

As you can see, these are just a few examples of the many types of equipment available in the market. You can always ring up your hoisting and rigging equipment supplier and ask for the specific equipment you need. 

Basic Components of Hoisting and Rigging Systems

Whether in construction or mining, you will always use a rigging and hoisting system composed of different parts. These parts will change from system to system.

But a typical system includes: 

• Load: This is the item or items being lifted or moved by the lifting and rigging system.
• Lifting Equipment: They include cranes, hoists, and other lifting devices used to raise and lower the loads.
• Rigging Equipment: They are slings, cables, chains, and other devices used to connect the load to the lifting equipment.
• Anchors: Anchors are the points where the lifting equipment gets attached. It could be the top of a crane or the anchor point of a hoist.
• Support Equipment: You may have to use blocking and cribbing to support the load and prevent it from shifting during lifting.
• Control Equipment: As the name suggests, they include remote control systems and limit switches that control the lifting equipment.
• Safety Equipment: Finally, you have safety gear like harnesses, hard hats, and other personal protective equipment.

In addition to these, you must also go through rigging guidelines to ensure safe loading and lifting. 

Hoisting and Rigging Guidelines to Ensure Safety

Whether it’s a shipping dock or a construction site, these are dangerous environments where safety needs to be the priority. So, when you use lifting and hoisting equipment, follow proper rigging and hoisting guidelines at all costs. 

Here are a few basic hoisting, lifting, and rigging guidelines:

1. Determine the Load Weight and Center of Gravity

Before you start, determine the weight of the load and the location of its center of gravity. This information will help you choose the appropriate rigging equipment. It will also ensure the load is balanced and stable during the lift. This is the first step in safe rigging practices and procedures.

2. Select the Right Equipment

Always choose the right equipment for the job. This goes for all equipment, including hoists, slings, hooks, chains, and wire ropes. Also, all the rigging components should be in good condition and rated to handle the required load. If you are in doubt, ask your hoisting and rigging equipment supplier or a certified personnel for help.

3. Inspect the Equipment

Before each use, inspect the equipment for signs of wear and damage. Replace any worn or damaged components before using the equipment.

4. Never Cross the Safe Working Load Limits

This is also one of the critical safe rigging practices and procedures. Each lifting and rigging equipment comes with specific working load limits. Ensure that your crane or winch can safely support the weight of the load. Never cross the safe working load limit under any circumstances.

5. Keep Your Hoist Line Plumb

As a rigger, be sure a plumb hoist line freely suspends the load. If not, the equipment can fail due to side loading. This often leads to catastrophic load shifting, destabilization, or unexpected tip over.

6. Clear the Clutter Before Lifting

Never overlook this hoisting guideline. Your work area should be clutter and hazard free before your work begins. So, when charting the path for your lift, clear unauthorized personnel, unnecessary machinery, debris, or potential hazards first. 

Also, make sure the power lines are tucked away and insulated. Electrocution is one of the leading hazards in construction and other work sites. And lastly, take note of changing weather conditions. If a storm or heavy rains are likely, postpone your operation until the weather clears.

7. Do a Test Lift

Although it is one of the crucial safe rigging practices and procedures, most riggers tend to ignore or forget this step. Test lifts often take a few minutes. But they can help you prevent potential accidents. 

Before lifting your load completely, lift it a few inches above the ground. Check your rigging and hoisting setup. If no adjustments are needed, go right ahead. But if there are any issues, address them before lifting the load.

8. Train Your Staff

The last but probably one of the most critical safe rigging practices and procedures is training. You will need to train your personnel to ensure they are familiar with the equipment they are using. This will significantly reduce the risk of accidents. Remember, you risk the lives of everyone, even if one person is untrained or unqualified. 

Ensure your workers have completed a training course, written exam, and practical demonstration. In most states, the training and certification are valid for three years. However, check with local authorities if your workers need the training more frequently. Also, provide ongoing training to keep your staff up-to-date on the latest regulations, rigging guidelines, and best practices.

Contact Your Hoisting and Rigging Equipment Supplier Now

Getting the fundamentals of hoisting and rigging right ensures safety. And they include knowing the load weight and center of gravity, selecting the right equipment, inspecting the equipment, following rigging guidelines, and training. With this post, you can get the basics of lifting, rigging, and hoisting right, from the beginning.

Are you looking for high-quality rigging, lifting, and hoisting equipment? Elite Sales is a leading industrial hardware supplier. Call us now to place your order!

As you may already know, wire ropes are widely used in several industries, from construction to transportation to manufacturing. The global steel wire rope market alone was valued at $11.9 Billion in 2020. It is projected to reach $17.5 Billion by 2028, growing at a CAGR of 8%.

Wire rope strands are made of individual wires twisted together. The strands are combined with one another to create a wire rope or industrial wire rope cable. Understanding how wires turn into strands, and the strands turn into a wire rope or a cable is necessary. It helps you decide what type of industrial wire rope or cable is best suited for your rigging application. 

Let’s explore the differences between wire, strand, and cable. 

1. Wire

Think of a wire as the smallest part or the foundation of wire ropes or cables. It is a single, flexible, string-like rod usually made from stainless steel, galvanized steel, or galvanized carbon steel. Each rod passes through a series of small holes called dies. That is how you get the wires of a desired diameter. 

Usually, steel wires are preferred over other types of wires, particularly synthetic versions. Steel wires are stronger and last longer. They can also withstand external corrosion better. Always choose high-quality steel wires for rigging applications in harsh environments. 

2. Strand

A strand is composed of two or more wires laid around a single center wire. Wire rope suppliers and manufacturers can use several wire combinations to create strands. However, 1×7 and 1×19 are the two most common configurations.

Let’s take a look at those. 

A. 1X7 Wire Rope Strands

These strands consist of seven wires in total. There is one (straight) center core wire, and six wires are helically stranded around the core. The diameter of these strands ranges from 1/8″ – 5/8″. The 1X7 wire rope strands yield minimal stretch. That’s why they are best suited to make 3X7 and 7X7, and 7X19 industrial wire rope cables.

B. 1X19 Wire Rope Strands

As you can imagine, this is one strand of 19 wires with a center wire. The rest of the wires are helically wrapped around the core in two layers. The inner layer has six wires, while the outer one has twelve wires.  

These strands are most commonly used to build wire ropes intended for hydraulically swaged fittings. These are the stiffest wire rope strands available. So, they are not suited for Thimble and Ferrule-type swages.

3. Wire Rope and Cable

Wire ropes or industrial steel cables are made by concentrically wrapping groups of strands. You can find a wide range of wire ropes or cables out there. Different wire rope suppliers and manufacturers use unique combinations to create wire ropes of the desired strength and flexibility. 

For example, a 7×7 industrial wire rope cable comprises seven strands, each made of seven wires. On the other hand, a 7×19 cable consists of seven strands with 19 wires in each one. The strength and flexibility of wire ropes depend on these helical combinations and the material used. 

A. 7X7 Wire Ropes

These wire ropes are durable, more flexible, and abrasion resistant. But they are best suited for general-purpose construction where strength and flexibility are a priority. However, you can use them over pulleys. Just be sure to consult a professional or wire rope supplier before doing so. 

B. 7×19 Wire Ropes

These ropes have 133 wires in total. They are one of the strongest and most flexible wire ropes. They also have an excellent stretch, making them best suited for use over pulleys. But you can also find them in garage doors, gym equipment, control cables, wind turbines, and winch ropes. They are also used to make wire-rope slings.

Understanding the Difference Between Wire, Strand, and Cable

The wire is the smallest component in a wire rope or industrial steel cable. On the other hand, a wire rope strand gets formed when you combine seven or 19 wires together. As a result, a strand is often stronger than a single wire. You can use strands on their own or as a combination, turning them into wire ropes and cables. 

Wire ropes and industrial cables are basically the same. The term is also used interchangeably. But wire ropes often have diameters larger than 3/8″. Cables, however, have smaller diameters. The strength, flexibility, and corrosion resistance will vary from cable to cable. You will need to speak with your wire rope supplier to find a cable that meets your specifications.

Find a Trusted Wire Rope Supplier

The wire is a single metal strand that lays the foundation of wire ropes and cables. Strands are made of multiple wires twisted together. And wire ropes or cables are made of multiple strands braided together. That’s what makes cables and wire ropes suitable for heavy-duty applications. Knowing this can help you choose a cable best suited for your application. 

Are you looking for high-quality wire ropes and industrial steel cables? As a leading wire rope supplier, Elite Sales can help you find what you want. Call us now!