Types of Wire Rope and Their Industrial Applications

Introduction

Wire rope is a vital component in construction, shipping, mining, and various heavy industries. Selecting the right type can make a big difference in both performance and safety. But with so many configurations like 6x19, 7x7, or 6x37, understanding which one fits your needs can be confusing.

In this guide, you’ll learn the most common types of wire rope and where they’re typically used.

What Is Wire Rope?

Wire rope is a type of cable made up of multiple strands of metal wire twisted into a helix. These strands are then twisted around a core to form a flexible and strong lifting or tension-bearing structure.

The most common wire rope constructions include:

• 6x19 (6 strands with 19 wires each)

• 6x37 (6 strands with 37 wires each)

• 7x7 and 7x19 (used in lighter-duty applications)

The construction type affects its flexibility, strength, and abrasion resistance.

6x19 Wire Rope Construction

This type consists of 6 strands, each with 19 wires.

It offers a good balance between flexibility and abrasion resistance, making it suitable for:

• Cranes and hoists

• Winches

• Rigging and slings

• Logging operations

The 6x19 rope has fewer, thicker wires, so it can handle wear and tear better than finer constructions.

6x37 Wire Rope Construction

The 6x37 configuration features more wires per strand, which increases flexibility.

Because of its softer feel and increased bendability, this type is commonly used in:

• Elevators and lifts

• Marine applications

• Trolley and boom lines

• Construction hoists

It’s important to note that although 6x37 is more flexible, it wears out faster in abrasive environments.

7x7 Wire Rope

This is a medium-flex cable consisting of 7 strands with 7 wires each.

It is less flexible than 7x19 but more abrasion-resistant, often used in:

• Garage door cables

• Control cables

• Small winches and pulleys

• Light-duty rigging

Its compact structure makes it ideal where minimal stretch and stiffness are needed.

7x19 Wire Rope

Made with 7 strands of 19 wires, this construction is extremely flexible and ideal for applications involving frequent bending.

Typical uses include:

• Aircraft cables

• Marine guard rails

• Gym equipment

• Security cables and locks

The 7x19 configuration is preferred where tight pulleys or high cycle movement are involved.

Galvanized vs Stainless Steel Wire Rope

Wire rope comes in various finishes, the most common being galvanized and stainless steel.

Galvanized wire rope is coated with zinc to resist corrosion. It’s commonly used in outdoor or marine applications where occasional exposure to moisture occurs.

Stainless steel wire rope is ideal for saltwater environments. Its corrosion resistance makes it the go-to choice for marine, food processing, and medical industries.

Fiber Core vs Steel Core

Wire ropes can have different types of cores:

• Fiber Core (FC): Offers more flexibility but less strength.

• Independent Wire Rope Core (IWRC): Stronger, better at handling heat and pressure.

• Strand Core (WSC): Offers moderate strength and flexibility.

Choosing the right core depends on your application's load requirements, environmental conditions, and expected wear and tear.

How to Choose the Right Wire Rope for Your Application

When selecting wire rope, consider the following:

• Load weight and strength requirements

• Flexibility vs abrasion resistance

• Operating environment (marine, dusty, high-temperature)

• Bending radius and pulley size

• Regulatory or safety standards

If your application involves frequent bending over small pulleys, a more flexible wire like 7x19 is ideal. For lifting heavy loads in rough environments, go for 6x19 or 6x37 with an IWRC.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right wire rope construction helps ensure the safety, efficiency, and longevity of your equipment. Whether you're working on a shipyard, a crane site, or in aviation, matching the correct type to your environment and load requirements is critical.

If you’re unsure which wire rope to use, consulting a trusted supplier or engineer can save you time and costly mistakes.

Need Help Choosing Wire Rope?

At Bait Alnuhas, we stock a wide range of industrial wire ropes for lifting, rigging, and marine applications. Our experts can help you pick the perfect construction and core based on your project's specific needs.

Reach out today to get fast quotes and technical support.