Synthetic ropes subjected to tension and trolley loads

The performance of synthetic ropes made of Kevlar, Vectran, Technora, or Spectra fibers in applications where the ropes are subjected to tension and lateral loads, is proving to be superior to that of wire ropes. A combination of high tensile strength to weight ratios, excellent inertial properties, and corrosion, abrasion and fatigue resistance make synthetic ropes quite attractive for replacing of steel wire ropes in a variety of applications. From experimental results the authors found that a rope made of Vectran fibers would greatly improve the highline´s durability, safety and environmental friendliness. Their results show that the lifetime performance of 1 inch diameter Vectran rope is superior by a factor of about 2 to 3 to the lifetime performance of 1 inch diameter wire ropes at typical service load levels. Trolley test results and an investigation through dissection of failed ropes as well as analytical assessments of the Vectran rope construction led the authors to the conclusion that there are possible improvements in the design and construction of highline that will further increase its performance