What’s worth knowing?
Mobile cranes are indispensable on many construction sites and in heavy industry. Their mobility, maneuverability, and ability to operate in a wide range of conditions mean they require reliable, properly selected components—including steel wire ropes, which are responsible for key functions related to lifting and moving loads.
What should you pay attention to?
Choosing the right steel wire rope depends primarily on the crane’s design, its intended use, and the working conditions. In the case of truck-mounted cranes with a hydraulic telescopic boom—used both in urban areas and off-road—it is crucial to match the rope to the type of drive, the drum mechanism, and the operating parameters specified by the manufacturer.
✔ Main rope (hoisting rope) – the most important part of the lifting system. It must be resistant to bending, twisting, and abrasive wear, while also offering high lifting capacity and flexibility.
✔ Auxiliary rope – used for additional functions, e.g., operating an auxiliary hook. It requires a smaller diameter, but still needs adequate durability.
Original ropes or alternatives?
Many users choose a rope that matches the technical and operational documentation (DTR) or go with a trusted manufacturer who has previously supplied ropes for a given type of equipment. This is a safe and sensible approach, especially for certified machines.
However, high-quality alternatives are increasingly available on the market. When they comply with the required standards, they can offer a more favorable price-to-service-life ratio. This is a good option for those who want to optimize operating costs without compromising safety.
What characteristics should a rope for a self-propelled crane have?
🔹 high resistance to bending over sheaves,
🔹 an appropriate strand construction ensuring even spooling on the drum,
🔹 strength against tensile forces and dynamic loads,
🔹 compliance with EN standards and the crane manufacturer’s guidelines.
