Manila Rope
Manila rope was once the preferred choice in ropes before synthetic fibers were developed. Manila ropes still maintain some advantages to synthetic fibers. It is not affected by heat, and has an excellent resistance to the sun's UV (Ultraviolet) rays. Manila rope has low stretch and good abrasion resistance, but poor chemical resistance, subject to rot.
E-Rigging.com has a large selection of 3-Strand Twisted Manila Rope in lengths up to and including 1200 feet.
Instructional Videos on Manilla Rope
Nylon Rope
Nylon Rope is known for its elasticity and tremendous shock absorbing qualities. It has good abrasion resistance, is rot proof, resists oil, gasoline, and most chemicals. It has good resistance to UV rays. Nylon will last 4-5 times longer than natural fibers.
E-Rigging.com has a large selection of 3-Strand Twisted Nylon Rope, Solid Braid Nylon Rope, and Double Braided Nylon Rope in lengths up to and including 1000 feet.
Instructional Video on Nylon Rope
Polypropylene Rope
Polypropylene rope will float, has excellent resistance to most common chemicals. It is also resistant to rot, mildew and deterioration. It has good abrasion resistance, good strength, and moderate stretch. It is a perfect economical choice as a general purpose rope.
E-Rigging.com has a large selection of 3-Strand Twisted Yellow Polypropylene Rope and Hollow Braid Polypropylene Rope in lengths up to and including 600 feet.
Instructional Videos on Polypropylene Rope
Polyester Rope
Polyester rope is high strength, low stretch, torque free, excellent wet/dry abrasion resistant and wet/dry strength. Good resistance to ultraviolet rays and common chemicals. Obtains the best weathering characteristics of all popular fibers. Polyester stretches less than nylon, so it does not have the elasticity of shock absorbing qualities that nylon does. It is very popular as a marine or industrial rope where stretch is not desired.
E-Rigging.com has a selection of Double Braided Polyester Rope in lengths up to and including 600 feet.
Instructional Video on Polyester Rope
| NYLON | POLYESTER | POLYPROPYLENE | MANILA | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Physical Properties | |||||
| Strength | 5/5 Stars | 4/5 Stars | 3/5 Stars | 2/5 Stars | |
| Strength When Wet | -15% | No Change | No Change | +15% | |
| Shock Load Ability | 5/5 Stars | 3/5 Stars | 4/5 Stars | 2/5 Stars | |
| Elongation at Break | 20-34% | 15%-20% | 15%-20% | 10%-15% | |
| Flexing Endurance | 5/5 Stars | 4/5 Stars | 3/5 Stars | 2/5 Stars | |
| Specific Gravity | 1.14 | 1.38 | 0.9 | 1.38 | |
| Floats or Sinks in Water | Sinks | Sinks | Floats | Sinks | |
| Water Absorption | 6% | 0% | 0% | 100% | |
| Melting or Charring Point | Melts - 480° F | Melts - 500° F | Melts - 330° F | Chars - 350° F | |
| Storage Requirements | Wet or Dry | Wet or Dry | Wet or Dry | Dry Only | |
| Degradation Resistance | |||||
| Abrasion | 4/5 Stars | 5/5 Stars | 2/5 Stars | 3/5 Stars | |
| Sunlight / UV | 3/5 Stars | 5/5 Stars | 1/5 Stars | 3/5 Stars | |
| Rot | 5/5 Stars | 5/5 Stars | 5/5 Stars | 1/5 Stars | |
| Acids | 1/5 Stars | 3/5 Stars | 3/5 Stars | 1/5 Stars | |
| Alkalies | 3/5 Stars | 1/5 Stars | 3/5 Stars | 1/5 Stars | |
| Oil, Gas, & Petroleum Based Liquids | 3/5 Stars | 3/5 Stars | 3/5 Stars | 1/5 Stars | |
| Electrical Conductivity Resistance | 1/5 Stars | 3/5 Stars | 3/5 Stars | 1/5 Stars | |
| Best =5/5 Stars | Worst =1/5 Stars | |||||
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- Rope Construction Guide
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