SYNTHETIC (MAN MADE) FIBRE ROPE
For any given diameter, ropes made from synthetic materials are generally far stronger and much cheaper than those made from natural fibres. Because of low water absorption the breaking strain of synthetic rope remains constant even when wet; when it breaks however, it does so without warning. Synthetic rope is immune to rot, has a longer life, and can be coloured for ease of recognition.
The use of continuous filaments instead of small fibres gives a 30% increase in strength and makes it unnecessary to have more than a nominal twist to promote filament cohesion. This can, however, give rise to a smoother rope in which knots are more liable to slip.
Rope ends can be heat sealed to prevent unlaying of the strands. The relatively low melting point of most man-made fibres means that it is important to avoid friction or synthetic ropes binding one against another - knots can actually fuse together when put under load.
NYLON
Nylon is the strongest of all ropes in common use. When stretched it has a "memory" for returning to its original length. For this reason it is best for absorbing shock loads, as is the case when lifting or towing. Nylon lasts 4-5 times longer than natural fibres because it has good abrasion resistance and is not damaged by oil or most chemicals. Like manila, nylon has good resistance to ultraviolet deterioration from sunlight. It is more than twice as strong as Manila Rope of the same size. Nylon has good resistance to most acids and alkalis. Its abrasive resistance is good.
Common uses: mooring lines and anchor warps because it stretches sufficiently to dampen the jerking action caused by the waves.
POLYESTER
Polyester is very close to nylon in strength when a steady force is applied. However, unlike nylon, polyester stretches very little and therefore cannot absorb shock loads as well. It is as equally resistant as nylon to moisture and chemicals, but is superior in resistance to abrasion and sunlight. Easy to dye - particular lines can be colour coded for ease of recognition. Polyester is the most popular general purpose rope in the boating industry. Expensive. Soft feel for handling.
Common uses: rigging on sailing boats.
POLYPROPYLENE
Because of its light weight, polypropylene is the only rope which floats. It does not lose strength even when wet. It is very popular for pool markers and water sports where it is important that the line remains on the surface of the water. Often sleeved with a braided material for softer handling. Polypropylene is affected by sunlight deterioration, more so than any other synthetic or natural fibre rope, but its life can be extended by storing it away from direct sunlight. Polypropylene begins to weaken and melt at 150°F, the lowest melting point of all synthetic ropes. It is not as strong as nylon or polyester, but 2-3 times stronger than manila.
Common uses: all purpose - because polypropylene is less expensive than other fibres.
The use of continuous filaments instead of small fibres gives a 30% increase in strength and makes it unnecessary to have more than a nominal twist to promote filament cohesion. This can, however, give rise to a smoother rope in which knots are more liable to slip.
Rope ends can be heat sealed to prevent unlaying of the strands. The relatively low melting point of most man-made fibres means that it is important to avoid friction or synthetic ropes binding one against another - knots can actually fuse together when put under load.
NYLON
Nylon is the strongest of all ropes in common use. When stretched it has a "memory" for returning to its original length. For this reason it is best for absorbing shock loads, as is the case when lifting or towing. Nylon lasts 4-5 times longer than natural fibres because it has good abrasion resistance and is not damaged by oil or most chemicals. Like manila, nylon has good resistance to ultraviolet deterioration from sunlight. It is more than twice as strong as Manila Rope of the same size. Nylon has good resistance to most acids and alkalis. Its abrasive resistance is good.
Common uses: mooring lines and anchor warps because it stretches sufficiently to dampen the jerking action caused by the waves.
POLYESTER
Polyester is very close to nylon in strength when a steady force is applied. However, unlike nylon, polyester stretches very little and therefore cannot absorb shock loads as well. It is as equally resistant as nylon to moisture and chemicals, but is superior in resistance to abrasion and sunlight. Easy to dye - particular lines can be colour coded for ease of recognition. Polyester is the most popular general purpose rope in the boating industry. Expensive. Soft feel for handling.
Common uses: rigging on sailing boats.
POLYPROPYLENE
Because of its light weight, polypropylene is the only rope which floats. It does not lose strength even when wet. It is very popular for pool markers and water sports where it is important that the line remains on the surface of the water. Often sleeved with a braided material for softer handling. Polypropylene is affected by sunlight deterioration, more so than any other synthetic or natural fibre rope, but its life can be extended by storing it away from direct sunlight. Polypropylene begins to weaken and melt at 150°F, the lowest melting point of all synthetic ropes. It is not as strong as nylon or polyester, but 2-3 times stronger than manila.
Common uses: all purpose - because polypropylene is less expensive than other fibres.
Types of Rope
Synthetic Fibre Rope
Synthetic Fibre Rope