Cordage

Chapter 1: What is Cordage?

Cordage consists of multiple fibers, strands, strings, or fabrics that are twisted or braided together to create a stronger, more robust rope. This combination enhances the strength of the final product compared to its individual components. Often called rope, cordage is an ancient tool that has been utilized by sailors, farmers, and cattlemen for centuries. Its remarkable strength and adaptability make it essential for securing, fastening, and transporting furniture and equipment.

Throughout the centuries, cordage design and manufacturing methods have evolved significantly. Traditional materials like hemp, cotton, and thread have been supplanted by modern synthetics such as nylon and polypropylene, which offer greater durability.

Chapter 2: How Cordage and Rope are Made?

While the fundamental process of making cordage remains consistent with its traditional methods, there have been advancements over time. Historically, rope was handmade by stretching strands of material for hundreds of yards, with one end anchored to hooks. A wheel was then turned to twist these strands into rope, a process known as a "rope walk."

Advancements over the years have modernized and mechanized the production of rope. Today, machines have replaced the manual "rope walk," streamlining the braiding and twisting processes.

Rope can be made using two primary techniques: braiding and twisting. Although the final products may appear similar, the methods used to create them differ.

Braided Rope

Braided rope is produced by braiding together multiple strands that can be from eight or nine up to the hundreds. The three forms of the braiding process are hollow, solid, and double.

• Hollow – is a tube of fibers that have been braided together with an empty core.
• Solid – has a core, which gives it greater strength than hollow core braiding.
• Double – has a braided core that is covered with a braided jacket, which increases its tensile strength.

Twisted Rope

Twisted rope is produced by first twisting individual strands together, which are then twisted again to form a larger, more robust rope. The key benefits of twisted rope include its affordability, flexibility, and ease of splicing.

How Rope and Cordage are Made

Rope production starts with either natural or synthetic fibers. Natural fibers include hemp, sisal, cotton, flax, and jute. While these natural fibers may lack the strength and durability of synthetic alternatives, they are still widely used in maritime, heavy-duty hauling applications, and everyday household tasks.

Synthetic fibers, such as nylon, polyester, polypropylene, and aramid, offer superior strength and longevity compared to natural fibers. These materials are designed to withstand harsh and demanding conditions, making them highly reliable in challenging environments.

Fiber Processing

Before the fibers are fed into the braiding or twisting machines, they undergo lubrication, treatment, and cleaning. Initially, steel-toothed combs straighten and separate the fibers, forming a loose, continuous ribbon known as a sliver.

Drawing

In the subsequent step, the sliver is compressed to ready it for twisting or braiding. This is achieved by passing the fibers through rollers in a drawing machine, which compresses them into a denser form. The processed material is then wound onto a bobbin. At this stage, the yarn can also be dyed to achieve the desired color.

Rope or Cordage Forming

The bobbins from the drawing stage are mounted on a creel. The yarn ends are threaded through holes in a plate to maintain the proper alignment and separation of the strands. As the yarn moves through the plate, it enters a compression tube that twists the strands before they are wound onto a new bobbin. The simplified image below shows the plate in the center and the compression tube to the left.

Plated Rope

The bobbins from the forming machine are transferred to a second braiding machine. In the forming machine, the yarn is twisted into S and Z patterns. The Z pattern twists to the right, while the S pattern twists to the left. These twisting patterns, known as laid patterns, are illustrated in the diagram below.

During the final braiding process, the rope may incorporate up to eight strands, with an equal number of S and Z twists—four of each. Each individual strand is created by pairing one S twist with one Z twist. To produce the finished rope, these paired strands are combined with others to form a cohesive and sturdy length of rope.

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Chapter 3: What are cordage products?

The rope cordage industry has evolved from the basic concept of rope to offer a diverse range of products, including both standard styles and those designed for specialized or unique applications. While rope may seem like a simple twisted strand of fibers, its type and design are carefully engineered for specific tasks.

When selecting a rope, one of the crucial factors to consider is its working load limit and tensile strength. These measures indicate how much stress the rope can endure before failing. The working load limit specifically defines the maximum weight the rope can safely support.

Working Load Limits

• Light duty – can support up to 100 lbs.
• Medium duty – can support 100 to 1000 lbs.
• Heavy duty – can support loads that are greater than 1000 lbs.

Cordage and Rope Products

Three Strand Twisted

Three-strand twisted rope is one of the oldest types of rope, with a history spanning centuries. It is a versatile option suitable for various applications. This rope is known for its ease of splicing and its superior shock absorption capabilities.

Solid Braid

Solid braided rope is constructed from 9, 12, or 18 strands that are braided together using a lock stitch pattern. This method ensures that the ends of the rope do not unravel. The rope is robust and maintains its integrity whether it includes a core or not.

Diamond Braid

Diamond braided rope features between 8 and 144 strands, depending on its intended use. The name "diamond braided" derives from the diamond-shaped pattern created during the braiding process. This pattern is formed by interlacing the strands in a circular over-and-under weave. A key characteristic of diamond braided rope is its excellent ability to securely hold knots.

Double Braid

Double braid rope consists of a braided core with a second braid encasing it. The outer braid can be made from the same material as the core braid or from a different material entirely.

Chapter 4: What are the various uses of cordage and rope?

Originally, rope was used primarily for lifting and transporting people and materials. Its applications have since broadened to include various industrial uses. As the rope and cordage industry has evolved, organizations such as the Rope Access Trade Association (IRATA) and the Society of Professional Rope Technicians (SPRAT) have established training and certification methods for rope techniques and products.

Cordage and Rope Uses

Bridge and Building Inspection

While remote devices equipped with video cameras are commonly used for inspecting bridges and buildings, in-person inspections by technicians often yield more precise information. High-quality ropes are employed to enable inspectors to traverse surfaces and high-altitude structures safely and efficiently.

Construction

Rope serves many purposes in the construction industry. One notable use is for specialized technicians who need to access difficult-to-reach areas on a project. Using ropes to lower workers into these locations is more cost-effective and time-efficient compared to building scaffolding, and it optimizes resource use. Highly skilled professionals can safely access and work in these hard-to-reach spots quickly and effectively.

Rescue Operations

Rope has been a crucial component of rescue operations for centuries, allowing rescuers to reach otherwise inaccessible areas. Its reliability is unmatched, as it does not conduct electricity and is resistant to damage from chemicals or water. This makes rope one of the most dependable tools in the rescue worker's toolkit.

Heavy Lifting

Though wire slings have become a very normal method for lifting heavy materials, it has been found that rope is just as reliable and a more economical solution to lifting operations. Rope slings have been engineered to be used with cranes, rigging, and other lifting mechanisms. They are safe, light weight, and highly reliable. Rope ensures the avoidance of injuries from snapping, recoiling, or dropping of loads from incorrect rigging.

Mining

The mining industry has relied on wire for underground operations for many years, but this often led to issues such as rusting and the formation of fishhooks and kinks, which created unsafe conditions. Ropes and cordage have since become a safer and more durable alternative to wire. Modern engineering advancements in rope design enhance visibility, longevity, and overall reliability, making them a superior choice for mining applications.

Ocean Work

Ropes used for marine applications are specially treated to be pre-stretched, preventing elongation during use. Additionally, these ropes are designed to resist damage from fish bites, a common issue in ocean work. A major challenge in maritime environments is saltwater, which can cause significant wear and tear on materials. To combat this, marine ropes are infused with chemical treatments that enable them to endure the severe conditions of constant water exposure.

Military

Rope serves various functions in the military, from securing gear during troop movements to assisting soldiers in navigating challenging terrain. It can be employed for crossing rivers and overcoming other obstacles. Additionally, rope has long been a crucial element in endurance training exercises during basic training.

Boating

Since the advent of ships and boats, ropes have been essential tools in maritime activities. Like ropes used in ocean work, those for boating and shipping must be crafted from materials that can endure the severe conditions of the sea. Historically, cordage has been vital for securing cargo, fastening hatches, and hoisting sails. Today, modern ropes made from synthetic materials offer the advantages of not unraveling and maintaining superior elasticity.

Agriculture

While modern machinery has largely replaced manual labor in agriculture, ropes remain essential for various tasks. They are used in applications such as loader wagon ropes, tedders, rakes, mowers, pulling ropes, poultry feeding systems, and feeding boxes. Unlike other fields, agriculture demands specific types of ropes tailored to each application, designed with particular tensile strength and durability in mind.

Industrial

Durability and longevity are critical in industrial operations, making rope a vital tool with a range of applications. In contemporary industrial settings, rope is utilized for various purposes, including sun protection systems, ascenders for wind turbine maintenance, electrical tools, convertible top mechanisms, deep drilling, helicopter operations, pipe access systems, and component installation, among others. The range of uses is extensive, encompassing numerous applications and processes across different industries.

Parachute Cord

Parachute cord, commonly known as paracord or 550 cord, was initially designed for parachute lines. Its applications have since broadened significantly. Constructed from 32 strands woven around a seven-strand inner core, paracord features a smooth outer surface and is made from durable nylon fibers that ensure strength and longevity. Although it has been superseded by other materials in parachute design, paracord remains a key tool in the military for creating harnesses, rope bridges, and tree nets. The term "550" refers to its 550-pound tensile strength.

Chapter 5: What materials are commonly used to make rope?

Rope-making dates back to ancient Egypt, where it was traditionally crafted from natural materials like plant fibers and animal parts. In contemporary times, the advent of synthetic materials has revolutionized rope production, with modern ropes being made from materials such as nylon, polypropylene, Kevlar, and Vectran.

Materials Used to Make Rope

Natural Fibers Rope and Cordage

Hemp Rope

Hemp is a natural fiber derived from the outer layer of the hemp plant. It is produced by twisting bundles of hemp fibers into yarn, which is then twisted with other yarns to create rope. Hemp rope is commonly used for bundling packages and securing a variety of items and materials. Its durability and versatility have made it a vital resource across multiple industries, including construction, sailing, communications, and shipping.

Flax Material

Flax material is used for making hemp rope. It is strong, durable and a fine material for ropes. Flax ropes are stronger than those of cotton and jute, and also get stronger when wet. Flax is actually a plant which grows up-to 50 to 100 cm. When this plant is mature, it produces two colored flowers, white and blue. The fiber collected from the blue flowers is the finest one, but the fiber collected from the white flower is the strongest but a coarser one. Flax fiber is also used along with wool and cotton to produce clothing. Flax rope is actually a natural one so it is soft to handle, has resistance to friction burns and can be used in a variety of applications. Flax ropes are usually used in skipping ropes, gymnasium and in theaters etc.

Cotton Rope

Cotton rope is made from cotton yarn, which is twisted or braided into rope. Cotton ropes are soft, pliable, hold knots well, and are easy to handle. Cotton ropes are stretchy and flexible as compared to other natural fibers. However, cotton rope is not very durable and strong. It also has very low corrosion and heat resistance. Cotton ropes also lose their strength in sunlight. Cotton ropes are available in their original white color, with 3 or 4 strand configurations. Size range of cotton rope ranges from 4mm to 37mm. The largest size of cotton rope is known as elephant ropes. It is used for boating, horse halters and leads, camping equipment, towing, and securing materials for shipping.

Manila Rope

Manila rope is crafted from natural fibers derived from the abaca banana plant, a type of hemp known for its exceptional strength. This rope is highly durable, flexible, and resistant to saltwater damage. However, it tends to shrink when wet, so it is pre-soaked and dried before being sold to mitigate this issue.

Manila rope shrinks up-to 10-15% when it becomes wet therefore, if it gets wet while working, it should be dried thoroughly. Manila ropes are easy to handle and knot well. They have a poor resistance to acids and alkalis. Therefore, exposure to chemicals and water should be avoided. These ropes should be stored in a dry place to avoid any damage. Average available size of these ropes is 6mm to 50mm. Manila ropes are widely used in exercise climbing, art and craft, landscaping, outdoor decorations, swings and other farming work.

Sisal Rope

Sisal rope is produced from the fibers of the agave sisalana plant, native to Mexico. Known for its stiff and robust fibers, sisal is an ideal material for rope-making. The process of producing sisal rope involves crushing the plant’s leaves to extract the fibers, a method called decortication. Sisal rope stands out for its durability and resistance to decay, making it superior to many other natural fiber ropes.

Similar to manila rope, sisal rope is often treated with cordage oil to enhance its resistance to water and friction. Sisal is a preferred material for agricultural twines such as binder and baler twine due to its high strength, durability, stretch, dye affinity, and resistance to saltwater damage. While sisal offers excellent grip and knotting capabilities, it can be vulnerable to weather-related damage. Therefore, sisal ropes are commonly used for decorative purposes as well as in farming and gardening applications.

Jute Rope

Jute fibers are sourced from two main types of jute plants: white and tossa. Tossa jute is known for its greater strength and silky texture compared to white jute, although white jute is more commonly used for rope-making. Jute, an edible plant with a long history as a food source in Asia, provides fibers from its outer skin and stem. These fibers are extracted through a process called retting, where the plant material is submerged in water to decompose. For industrial purposes, jute rope is treated with a specific oil known as jute batching oil.

Jute is an eco-friendly and biodegradable natural fiber that is both versatile and easily reusable. While its breaking strength is about 20% lower than that of manila rope and it has limited stretch, jute ropes are durable and resistant to heat. However, jute is susceptible to moisture and should be stored in dry conditions to prevent damage. Available in 3 and 4 strand configurations with Z and S twists, jute ropes find applications in towing, gardening, steel wire ropes, the transportation industry, and packaging.

Synthetic Rope and Cordage

Polypropylene Rope

Polypropylene is the most cost-effective among synthetic rope materials. It offers excellent insulation properties and has the advantage of floating on water. Its resistance to rot and mildew makes it highly suitable for aquatic environments. As a polymer, polypropylene is resilient against solvents, bases, and acids, with a melting point of 170°C. Polypropylene ropes are constructed from continuous filaments that are either twisted or braided into rope form.

These ropes maintain their shape even under bending or flexing conditions. Similar to nylon ropes, polypropylene ropes are resistant to rot and provide excellent abrasion resistance as well as resilience against acids, alkalis, and various chemicals. They also resist marine growth and mildew. To prolong their lifespan, it's advisable to keep polypropylene ropes out of direct sunlight when not in use. Typically yellow, these versatile ropes are employed in a variety of applications including mooring, dock lines, anchor lines, boat lines, trampolines, pool barriers, builder lines, and various household, agricultural, and industrial uses.

Polyester Rope

Polyester rope is known for its resistance to UV rays, heat, and abrasion, which contributes to its higher cost compared to other synthetic fibers. It resembles nylon in appearance and is available in fine fibers. Polyester boasts strength comparable to nylon and exhibits minimal stretch due to pre-stretching. It has a melting point of 240°C and demonstrates low creep under load.

Polyester fibers are highly resistant to chemicals, abrasion, and sunlight. They are also relatively easy to splice with materials such as nylon, stainless steel, or galvanized thimbles. Common uses for polyester rope include mooring, rigging, industrial applications, fishing nets, bolt slings, and hawser. Additionally, it is utilized in anchor lines, fenders, and fender lines.

Kevlar® Rope

Kevlar is renowned for its outstanding strength, stiffness, toughness, and thermal stability. A notable feature of Kevlar is its increased strength in subzero temperatures. Its minimal stretch makes it ideal for applications that demand high stability. Kevlar is commonly used in winch lines, mooring lines, and environments with extreme temperature fluctuations.

Nylon Rope

Nylon is a highly durable synthetic fiber known for its excellent elasticity and resistance to abrasion. It also offers protection against UV rays, rot, mildew, and various chemicals. Due to its robust nature, nylon rope is frequently used in applications such as towing lines, anchor lines, and pulleys. Its ability to maintain flexibility even after extensive use makes it perfect for tie-downs and knotting.

One of the notable features of nylon rope is its "memory," meaning it returns to its original shape after being stretched. This characteristic, combined with its ease of handling and elasticity, makes nylon rope a reliable choice for numerous applications. It is commonly utilized in mooring lines, towing slings, fishing, utility ropes, safety lines, and industrial slings.

High Modulus Polyethylene Rope (HMPE)

HMPE, or High Modulus Polyethylene, is renowned for its remarkable strength while remaining lightweight. It offers superior flexibility and stability, making it capable of supporting substantial loads without showing signs of wear or damage. Additionally, HMPE ropes are buoyant, enhancing safety compared to other synthetic ropes. Their minimal elongation and stretching properties facilitate easy handling in critical and hazardous situations. HMPE ropes boast a strength-to-weight ratio that is 7 to 9 times greater than steel and about 3 times stronger than polyester of the same weight.

Vectran Rope

Vectran is produced from a liquid crystal polymer (LCP) and is known for its outstanding strength and rigidity, boasting a tensile strength of 26 grams per denier. This makes it five times stronger than steel and ten times stronger than aluminum. Vectran is highly resistant to abrasion, flex fatigue, and chemicals, and it maintains excellent thermal stability even under extreme temperatures and cryogenic conditions. In industrial applications, Vectran remains unaffected by radiation and microwave energy, exhibiting minimal creep and shrinkage.

Dacron™ Rope

Dacron rope is constructed from a blend of polypropylene and Dacron fibers, which are twisted into strands and braided together. Often called combination rope due to its dual-material composition, Dacron rope offers flexibility and exceptional resistance to fractures, heat, abrasion, and ultraviolet rays. This makes it ideal for demanding applications requiring robust and durable performance under harsh weather conditions and high impact scenarios. Common uses include sailing, climbing, fitness training, and roofing projects.

Chapter 6: How are the size and measurement of rope and cordage determined?

When selecting the appropriate rope for a particular task, three key factors should be considered: length, diameter, and load-bearing strength. Each type of rope is engineered to fulfill specific roles and functions. It is crucial to evaluate these factors carefully, especially in scenarios where the rope will serve as a safety harness or a tool for critical work tasks.

Workload Strength

Each type of rope, whether made from synthetic or natural fibers, has specific metrics for breaking strength and safe working load limits. Traditionally, the strength of natural fiber ropes is benchmarked against the breaking strength of manila rope. Synthetic ropes are also compared using similar standards. To calculate the breaking strength of manila rope, you multiply its circumference by 900 lbs.

Rope strength is generally assessed using two key factors: tensile strength and working load limit. While these terms are sometimes used interchangeably, they actually represent distinct aspects of rope performance.

• Tensile Strength: The tensile strength of rope is the amount of stress it can endure before its breaks. It is tested by wrapping the rope around large diameter capstans where tension is slowly applied until the rope breaks.
• Working Strength: The working load limit of a rope is expressed as a percentage and is normally less than 20% of the tensile strength. Workload strength can be lost when a rope has endured shock or other forms of damage.

Diameter

The diameter of a rope significantly affects its maneuverability, handling ease, and overall comfort and safety. Generally, a thicker rope is preferred for its enhanced strength and ability to distribute pressure more evenly, providing a more reliable grip. However, as the diameter increases, the rope becomes stiffer, which may pose challenges for certain applications.

Length

To estimate the required length of rope, a traditional method involves extending four full arm lengths of rope from armpit to fingertip and multiplying this measurement by four. This age-old technique provides a reasonable approximation for many tasks. For more precise needs, especially in industrial settings, exact measurements are made using calibrated tools.

When selecting the appropriate length of rope, key considerations include the number of obstacles the rope must navigate and its flexibility. Longer ropes generally become heavier, wider in diameter, and less flexible, which can complicate their deployment. Engineers often rely on mathematical calculations to determine the optimal rope length for specific applications.

Chapter 7: How should you maintain rope and cordage?

The work life of a rope is very much dependent on how it is maintained. Each type of rope and their fibers have to be treated according to their specifications and guidelines. Certain general parameters can serve as guidelines for enhancing rope usage.

Rope and Cordage Maintenance

Regular inspections are crucial to ensure the longevity of any tool, including ropes. Despite being a common tool, ropes require the same level of attention as any other equipment. Thoroughly inspecting ropes before use is essential for ensuring safety in various operations such as construction, military tasks, and search and rescue missions.

Working Load Limit

The working load limit of a rope should always be adhered to, as specified in the product description. Ropes should be used for straight pulls only; side or angled pulls can significantly affect their load-bearing capacity.

Component Match

It is important to use hooks, links, or shackles that are compatible with the rope's fiber and size. These components must be correctly installed and match the rope's working load capacity. Mismatched or improperly aligned components can damage the rope and reduce its effectiveness.

Shock Loading

Shock loading occurs when a load is jerked or allowed to fall freely, increasing the force on the rope and potentially exceeding its working load limit. This can cause the rope to fail under conditions that far exceed its design specifications.

Abrasion

Even ropes designed to resist abrasion can be damaged by rough or sharp surfaces. When a rope is used with equipment like hoists or winches, ensure that the surfaces are smooth and free from debris such as metal filings or wood chips. Equipment used for winding ropes should operate smoothly and be appropriately sized.

Heat

Exposure to temperatures above 140°F can reduce the strength of synthetic ropes by up to 50%. When ropes are wound or winched, friction can cause overheating, which further weakens their tensile strength.

Knots

Ropes are frequently used for lifting and pulling, which involves tying and bending. The strength of a rope can be significantly reduced by frequent knotting and bending. Always refer to the manufacturer's specifications to prevent excessive strength loss.

Storage

All types of ropes should be stored in a clean, dry area, shielded from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. It's essential to keep ropes off the floor by placing them on a rack or shelf. Ensure the storage area is well-ventilated. Avoid storing ropes on concrete or dirt floors, and keep them away from chemicals to maintain their integrity.

When storing ropes, they should be coiled properly. The ideal method is to use a reel, either handheld or mounted on wheels. Proper coiling ensures that the fibers relax without undue stress and minimizes the risk of tangling. A reel helps to avoid damaging entanglements and keeps the rope in good condition.

Bending Radius

Sharp bends can weaken a rope and potentially cause damage or failure. When incorporating components, the bending radius should be at least three times the diameter of the rope. For optimal results, the ratio of the component to the rope's diameter should be 5 to 1. Thimbles typically follow a 3 to 1 ratio.

Reeling and Coiling

Rope is typically shipped on reels for easy handling and protection. When removing a new rope from its reel, ensure that the reel is mounted on a pipe to allow free movement. Avoid unreeled the rope while it is lying on the ground or in a stationary position, as this can cause tangling and potential damage.

Repairing Minor Damage

To prevent unraveling, the ends of ropes can be knotted. However, if damage occurs, you can often repair it by trimming the damaged section and sealing or re-knotting the end. If the middle of the rope is damaged, it should be taken out of service immediately. Even with repairs, the rope's tensile and load-bearing strength may be compromised.

Chapter 8: What are the standards, regulations, and organizations related to rope?

Tools used in industrial and manufacturing settings are subject to oversight by various organizations to ensure worker safety and product quality. For ropes, key regulatory bodies include the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), the American Cordage Institute, the Rope Access Trade Association (IRATA), the Society of Professional Rope Technicians (SPRAT), and the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM).

Rope Standards and Regulations

International Organization for Standards (ISO)

In 2010, the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) introduced three standards specifically for ropes.

• ISO 9554: 2010 outlines the characteristics of fiber ropes and materials that can be used in rope manufacturing and covers the physical properties for each individual product.
• ISO 9554: 2010 describes the approved methods for using rope and methods for inspecting it.
• ISO 9554: 2010 is a brief outline for the safe use of rope and how to select the proper size, physical properties, and applications.

American Society for Mechanical Engineers (ASME)

ASME's B30.30 standard outlines the guidelines for the construction, selection, installation, attachment, testing, inspection, maintenance, repair, and replacement of wire rope, hybrid rope, and synthetic fiber rope used in lifting operations. As a subsection of B30, this standard is aimed at owners, users, employers, and manufacturers of rope products.

American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM)

The ASTM standards detail the specifications for ropes used in rescue systems and the testing methods required to ensure their reliability. This includes drop tests designed to replicate the most extreme conditions that a rope might encounter during use.

American Cordage Institute

The American Cordage Institute is a collective of manufacturers, producers, and suppliers focused on establishing standards for fiber ropes. It provides comprehensive guidelines on rope products, raw materials, machinery, and suppliers, aiming to ensure proper manufacturing practices and usage of fiber ropes.

Rope Access Trade Association (IRATA)

The IRATA offers recommendations and guidance for the safe use of ropes, with a focus on training experts in rope practices. It provides protocols and standards for rope use in high-risk environments, such as working at heights or in hazardous conditions.

Society of Professional Rope Technicians (SPRAT)

Established in the early 1990s in response to increased work at dangerous heights, the SPRAT initially focused on rescue operations. Over time, as rope use expanded into construction and manufacturing, the organization broadened its scope to cover all aspects of rope access operations. It provides standards and guidelines for companies involved in high-altitude or extreme environment work.

Conclusion

• Cordage is a series of intertwined fibers, strands, strings, or fabric that are joined by twisting to form a larger more formidable whole.
• The rope cordage industry has taken the basic concept of the rope and developed a wide array of products that include common styles of rope to those that are specially produced for unusual and unique applications.
• The two methods for producing rope are braiding and twisting.
• Over the centuries, the design and processes used to produce cordage has gradually changed.
• Ancient materials that were originally used to produce rope have gradually changed from hemp, jute, and manila to a wide variety of synthetic materials.

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