Steel Wire Rope Inspection
Steel wire rope has long been associated with mechanical engineering, mining, transport and industrial-scale handling operations and is a vital component in many industries. But like any other rope, it is subject to wear over time, the effects of corrosion welding and other elements of deterioration and should be thoroughly examined and tested on a regular basis to ensure its integrity and durability. Here we take a look at some of the key considerations when it comes to testing and inspecting steel wire rope.
Inspection of Steel Wire Rope
When conducting a wire rope inspection, it is essential that the rope is examined as carefully as possible. Rope should only be handled by experienced personnel and inspected in clean conditions to ensure that dirt, grease, dust and rust does not corrupt the results of the examination.
The inspection should include:
o Visually inspecting all strands and ropes, looking for signs of corrosion, severe flattening, cracking, corrosion pitting, peening or soft spots in the strand inner surface.
o Testing the load resisting capabilities – wire ropes should be capable of resisting the load they are being placed under. Before use, the rope should be subjected to a static load test to check its load resisting capabilities, as well as any dynamic tension to ensure it can undergo impacts.
o Measuring the rope for length, size and diameter.
o Cleaning the rope to remove any corroded material. The rope should then be dried and a new lubricant applied to move any left-over debris.
o Gravimetric crimp testing and visual examination of the individual wires, wires being identified by ‘rings’ at intervals and examined for breaks or deformations.
o Measuring the rope’s diameter and ensuring that the difference between the smallest point and the largest point is within 5%.
o Checking the reel or spool they are supplied on is the correct and designed for this purpose, free of damage and fit for purpose.
It is important to note that steel wire rope should never be put under load until it has been given an approved visual inspection, with any defects identified being removed before the rope can be used.
Rope Maintenance
Whilst careful inspection is essential, regular maintenance is also important to ensure the rope remains in optimum condition and is fit for purpose.
Regular maintenance of wire rope should include:
o Keeping ropes stored in dry, covered areas where possible.
o Cleaning and lubricating ropes on a regular basis.
o Maintaining the tension within flexibility limits.
o Ensuring that new ropes are mounted correctly.
o Reducing temperatures experienced in certain applications by ensuring sockets and sockets used are of suitable diameter.
o Periodically rechecking and adjusting tensions of ropes used in dynamic applications.
Conclusion
Steel wire ropes are a vital component for many large-scale industries and should be inspected and maintained as carefully as possible. Regular inspection and maintenance will ensure wire rope is always performing as expected, free of any deformations, nicks or corrosion and in perfect condition for heavy-duty operations.
