Introduction

This article examines the difference between the Nominal, Reference, and Measured Diameter in wire rope.

How do you measure wire rope diameter?

When measuring the wire rope diameter, it is important to measure around the widest part of the rope. The following diagram illustrates the correct way to measure the wire rope diameter:

Nominal Diameter

The Nominal Diameter is the diameter that the manufacturer designates to a rope. The test certificate will provide this information. The nominal diameter is important during an inspection, as it used to determine the level of damage due to wear.

Reference Diameter

The reference diameter is measured around a section of rope that is not subject to bending after a rope has been broken in. The reference diameter is also included in the calculation to determine the level of wear displayed by a rope.

Measured Diameter

The measured diameter is taken at a specific position during inspection. Unlike the other two forms of diameter, this value will change as the rope is subject to more extended wear.

Determining the level of wear

The three diameters are used to determine the level of wear in wire rope using the following calculation:

For further information on wear in wire rope, please read our article on the subject.

Conclusion

Thanks for reading this far! In this article, we have covered the three types of wire rope diameter and how they are obtained.

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Again, thanks for reading,

The Rope IQ team.

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