Deck General · Cordage & Line
Wire rope is designated by its construction, such as 6x19. What do these numbers represent?
- A6 strands of 19 wires each✓ Correct
- B6-inch diameter rope with 19-thread core
- C6 working parts and 19-ton breaking strength
- DGrade 6 steel with a 19-millimeter diameter
Explanation
Wire rope designation uses the format (number of strands) x (wires per strand). A 6x19 wire rope has 6 strands, each consisting of 19 individual wires, laid around a fiber or steel core. More wires per strand (e.g., 6x37) gives greater flexibility; fewer wires (6x7) gives greater resistance to abrasion but less flexibility.
Authority: Deck Seamanship (USCG deck topic)
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