Deck General · Cordage & Line
Which synthetic fiber line has the greatest elasticity and is best suited for absorbing the shock load on a tow line or mooring line?
- ANylon✓ Correct
- BPolypropylene
- CPolyester (Dacron)
- DManila
Explanation
Nylon stretches up to 40% before breaking, making it the top choice for shock-absorbing applications like tow lines, anchor rodes, and mooring lines. Polyester (Dacron) has low stretch, polypropylene is lightweight and floats but has moderate stretch, and manila is a natural fiber with very little elasticity.
Authority: Deck Seamanship (USCG deck topic)
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