Towing & Ship-Assist · Gear — Synthetic Line Snap-Back
Compared with wire rope, a synthetic (nylon) towline of equal strength is more dangerous in one respect:
- AIt stretches far more and stores more energy, so it snaps back violently if it parts✓ Correct
- BIt cannot float
- CIt is immune to chafe
- DIt conducts electricity to the crew
Explanation
Nylon's high elasticity is useful for shock absorption but stores large energy under load; if it parts, the recoil (snap-back) is far more violent than wire, with a wide danger zone. Crews must stay out of the snap-back path and minimize time near a loaded synthetic line.
Authority: Cordage/towing safety references
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