New European rope test facility

In recent years several European rope testing laboratories either downsized or closed. But the demand for rope testing has increased, particularly for application specific testing which models service life conditions of ropes, chains and cables. Tension Technology International (TTI), a leading consultancy firm in the field, identified this need and set up a new testing company: TTI Testing in Wallingford, UK, to provide these services to the public. This paper discusses the special requirements for testing wire and fiber ropes, chains and cables. It describes TTI Testing's specialized test equipment. Finally, it presents case studies which show how a carefully designed testing program can be used to represent, replicate and understand rope behavior in service. This improves understanding can be used to improve rope design, predict service life and develop discard criteria, and thus lead to safer and more economical operation. The paper will be of particular interest to makers and users of wire and fiber rope, chain, and cables.