You may have heard of winch ropes before, but do you know the advantages they can bring to your company?
At Lifting Equipment Store USA (LES USA) we always want to make sure you can make an informed decision. That's why in this article we're going to outline what synthetic and winch cables are and what advantages you can get from having one at your disposal.
If there's anything throughout this article where you want more information on a topic or have questions about how this product we're discussing in this article can be of use to you, then please contact an experienced member of the team.
Let's kick off this article by asking the question...
WHAT ARE WINCH ROPES?
There are two main versions of this product you can buy. The synthetic type and the winch cable. Synthetic versions are made from a cord of synthetic material that is woven together which makes these winch ropes very strong. These types of winch cables are ideal for towing vehicles.
Winch cables, another style of a winch, are made from galvanized steel. These cables are reliable and strong giving the capability to pull heavy vehicles if required to do so.
Both these winches offer an effective way to anchor or tow, however, which one would be more beneficial for you to purchase for your work? Let's have a look.
SYNTHETIC WINCH ROPE V WINCH CABLES
Synthetic versions are more convenient and easier to handle than winch cables. They are lightweight and have better strength. However, you may prefer a more cost-effective product.
If this is the case, then you can consider purchasing a winch cable. They ensure you get your money's worth since they are galvanized and whether resistant meaning if stored appropriately will have a long lifespan.
Both products are of high quality and beneficial to your industry but comparing attributes can help you decide which one is right for you.
SIMILARITIES BETWEEN SYNTHETIC WINCH ROPE AND WINCH CABLE
Surprisingly both of these have similarities between them. Let's look at a number of these similarities together:
MAINTENANCE
Both these types of winches require maintenance to keep in immaculate condition. The variations of these products use synthetic fibers that need to be washed and cleaned regularly to keep their shape and softness level.
Winch cables do not have this issue, but they are metal so have the potential to rust. To solve this problem and avoid it from happening you can use oil to keep the cable lubricated.
USES
If you are driving and get suck in the mud or drive off in tougher terrain, winches are ideal for helping you get unstuck. Both the ropes and winch cables are strong enough to help pull your car out and helping them get back on the road again.
WEIGHT
If you use winch cables in the water, they will stay the same weight. However, if you submerge synthetic ropes in the water they will not be as lightweight as before because water gets absorbed into the fibers. This could make the rope snap if not catered to immediately after use.
ANCHORING
Both these winch types are ideal for anchoring. The synthetic version is more susceptible to fraying than winch cables because steel will not fray. You should always inspect your winch types before and after use to avoid any injuries or damage from occurring.
RELIABLE
Both these winch types are extremely reliable. If properly taken care of they will have a long lifespan which means you will get your money's worth. If you are working in harsh weather conditions you can consider using a winch cable that is powder-coated in zinc to avoid rusting.
STRENGTH
Both these winch types are ideal for pulling heavy loads. The greater the tensile power the higher the load limit! Synthetic ropes have great strength for towing heavy vehicles.
BREAKING
Both winch types can break but synthetic winch ropes are easier to repair. Once a steel cable breaks it can’t be mended.
DOES YOUR COMPANY NEED WINCH ROPES?
You've now, hopefully, got a solid understanding of knowing the difference between synthetic wire rope and winch steel cables. We've looked at the similarities, and from that highlighted the benefits of the variations that are available to you.
We haven’t answered which is exactly better for your particular and if you're keen to find out more about how these products can add massive value to your business, please contact an experienced member of the LES USA team and they will be happy to help guide you through your options.