Since synthetic fibers were introduced to the rope industry in the 1950’s, customers have many different options for rope material. The properties of each rope fiber are unique, with their own strengths and weaknesses. With all these choices, it is important to pick the right rope for the right job.
Advantages Of Nylon Rope
Today, our team at Quality Nylon Rope would like to talk about the advantages of using nylon rope.
Strength
Nylon rope is a great option if you’re looking for a high strength rope. Nylon is the strongest of the most common rope fibers, significantly stronger than polypropylene, polyethylene or organic fibers and narrowly beating out polyester.
Elasticity & Shock Absorption
Nylon has a high stretch factor, providing a level of elasticity that comes in handy for certain applications. Nylon rope stretches around 15-28% at break, meaning at the high end it is almost double the stretch of a polyester fiber.
Nylon rope is great for shock absorption and dynamic load applications because of its elasticity, making it a clear choice for mooring and towing activities and certain anchoring applications.
Resistance
Another awesome advantage of nylon rope is its resistance to abrasion, UV rays, mildew, rot and chemical exposure.
Nylon rope’s high abrasion resistance means it will last much longer than the majority of standard rope fibers (the exception being polyester), and will consequently maintain the integrity of the jacket longer leading to a longer usage life.
The rope’s nylon material will withstand the ultraviolet rays that can deteriorate rope. Due to its high resistances, nylon will not be degraded by exposure to most chemicals and organic solvents and is resistant to rot, mildew, and other effects related to moisture.
Braided Or Twisted
Nylon Rope is commonly either braided or twisted. Having both options makes nylon rope extremely versatile. Use braided nylon rope for the strongest option. The tightly woven lock-stitch construction will not unravel, and provides a firm, steady rope. However, twisted rope will give you a more balanced rope that will hang straight and not kink.
Common Uses
Probably one of the most versatile ropes, nylon rope is commonly used for pulley systems or winches, because of its resistance to abrasion and shock absorption. Nylon rope’s shock absorption qualities make it a great rope for lifting or towing jobs, where rope needs to absorb a dynamic load.
The Drawbacks
One of nylon rope’s only weaknesses is that it absorbs water and therefore is weakened when wet or immersed in water. The cordage institute rates the break strength of a wet nylon rope to be around 85-90% of the break it has dry. However this effect is functionally minor and nylon rope is still often used for mooring and anchor lines.
Conclusion
Clearly, the advantages of using nylon rope are vast and because of this, nylon rope can be used for all sorts of projects. Every project is different, but nylon rope remains an important staple with many different uses.
Here at Quality Nylon Rope, we offer the best quality and selection of nylon ropes. You can view all our products online, here. With over 25 years of industry experience, we’re experts in nylon rope. Contact us today to learn more!
