Wire rope is a very complex machinery element which primary function is the transmission of tensile forces. Its basic constructional design allows repeated changes in the direction of pull through reeving systems incorporating drums and sheaves.
General purpose rope constructions are standardized in national (ASTM, CSA) and international standards (ISO).
However, the increasing demand for higher breaking strength, greater flexibility, better rotation resistance, and extended rope life cannot be met by such general purpose rope constructions.