Handbook of best practices

Table 1.3.3.1 a Cable components comparison
Nylon (PA6)
Polyester
Polypropylene (PP)
Polyethylene
Stretched hoses iv
Advantages
Most widely used, excellent strengthto-weight
ratio, very elastic, easy to
splice, excellent shock absorption
capabilities, cyclic loading
performance, low cost
Excellent all-around abilities, does
not experience loss of strength in
seawater
Most widely used in combination with
buoyant rope, relatively inexpensive,
moderately strong, stronger wet than
dry, good energy absorption
capabilities, resistance to abrasion
Similar to polypropylene but not as
strong or buoyant, inexpensive
May adapt the stiffness of the line
with damping according to severe
cases.
Disadvantages
Shrinkage and loss of strength in
seawater, internal abrasion
High cost, limited availability, less
elastic than nylon, heavier than
nylon
Slippery→Extra care, deterioration
in sunlight. Dark-coloured ropes are
not as susceptible to UV light
damage, recommended over
lighter-coloured ropes
Used in non-critical applications
where buoyancy is needed
Costly and needing frequent
exchange.
The comparison between these cable and chain solutions is still a topic of R&D, with
permanent increase of performances.
Table 1.3.3.1 b Selected properties of several synthetic fiber materials, steel and the natural fiber hemp are
included for reference [1]
Table 1.3.3.1 c Indicative properties of several synthetic rope materials, classified by colour as poor, average and
good, and actual performance will depend on the rope construction and application. [1]
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