Finish and Coating Types

Most wire rope comes in uncoated (also called bare) form. Some wire rope has a finish to allow for a specific use, or provide strength.

• Nylon is very strong, lightweight, and flexible, has excellent abrasion resistance, and resists crushing and cracking.
• Vinyl, also called Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC), is corrosion-resistant, lightweight, and has high strength. It resists reactions with acids, gasolines, alcohol, and hydrocarbons. It is flexible, and is resistant to weather and ultra-violet (UV) rays. It is a hard, durable plastic that resists most chemicals, has excellent dimensional stability, and has the ability to be sterilized. It resists oil, has low moisture-absorption, and is non-conductive.
• Zinc galvanized iron or steel is coated with a thin layer of zinc. This protects the underlying material from corrosion and provides rust-resistance. It remains ductile over long work periods. Galvanized steel usually has a higher breaking strength than stainless steel.