Introduction to Ship Mooring Cable

1. Structural Classification

Single-strand rope (1×7/19) : High rigidity, used for small mooring.

Multi-strand rope (6×7/19/37) : The most commonly used, balancing strength and flexibility, suitable for dragging and hoisting.

Composite rope (18×7/34×7) : Strong fatigue resistance, used in deep-water anchor chains and high-frequency winches.

2. Functional Classification

①. Mooring cable: impact-resistant + corrosion-resistant, breaking strength ≥3 times the mooring force (ISO 10547).

②. Lifting slings: Low elongation + anti-rotation, and must pass 2 million bending tests (DNVGL).

③. Towing cable: High toughness + wear resistance, dynamic elongation < 0.5% (ABS).

④. Control cable: Low torsion (≤3°/ m), used in the steering system.

3. Surface Treatment

①. Galvanizing: Resistant to salt spray, lifespan extended by 50%, cost increased by 15-20%.

②. Plastic coating (PVC/PE) : Prevents seawater penetration, but reduces flexibility.

③. Smooth surface: Regular oiling is required.  It is economical and suitable for inland waterway vessels.

4. Rope Core material

①. Fiber core (FC) : Flexible and energy-absorbing, lightweight for hoisting.

②. Steel core (IWRC) : High compressive strength, preferred for heavy-duty cranes.

③. Polymer core: It has the best fatigue resistance and is used for dynamic positioning of ships.

5. Selection and Maintenance

Heavy-load hoisting →6×36WS steel core rope;

Ocean mooring → Galvanized 6×41+FC rope;

Precise manipulation →18×7 coated rope;

Dynamic positioning →34×7 polymer core rope.

Scrapping standard: Diameter reduction > 10% or broken wires within 6 times the rope diameter > 5%.