Will galvanised steel rope rust

It's a question we're often asked, especially when customers are deciding between galvanised and stainless steel, however, it depends on the conditions that are present.

Galvanised steel rope is constructed by coating the steel with a thin layer of zinc, which protects it against corrosion and rust. That said, the zinc can begin to wear away, exposing the steel to the elements, which can result in rust. For example, if your galvanised steel rope is likely to come into contact with water or salt water, it's crucial to check it for signs of rust or corrosion. If you do spot any potential issues, you will need to replace the rope as soon as possible to avoid any damage to your property or equipment.

The rope's construction also needs to be considered

Many of the galvanised steel rope products you'll discover online will vary in terms of strands, lays, wires, diameters and classifications. The most common galvanised steel rope is 7x19, which is used for many requirements where wire ropes are running over pulleys. At Rope Services Direct, we offer the following variations:

• 7x19
• 6x12 Fibre Core
• 6x7 Fibre Core
• 6x19 Fibre Core
• 6x36
• 7x7 Wire Core
• 1x19
• 6x24 Fibre Core

Each type of rope has its own benefits, so it's important to select the most appropriate one for your needs. For example, a 6x7 galvanised steel rope is more flexible than other options. It is often used for general purpose applications, while a 7x19 galvanised steel rope is better suited to heavy-duty tasks.

Keeping a close eye on corrosion

All galvanised wire ropes are subject to a certain amount of wear and tear over time, however, lubrication can help to minimise corrosion and rust. The use of a quality rope lubricant can protect your galvanised steel rope against the elements and reduce friction and wear. It's important to note that while lubrication can offer some protection, it's not a cure-all, and you will still need to regularly inspect your wire ropes for signs of corrosion or damage. Be sure to check for broken wires, distortions and observable rusting, whilst you may also have to open up the rope to identify and confirm internal issues.

Is galvanised steel rope reliable?

Whilst galvanises steel can tolerate other metals, acids and chemicals; it's also capable of withstanding very tough outdoor elements. Therefore, high quality galvanised steel rope is very reliable for many applications, such as lifting gear, agriculture, search and rescue, dockyards, shipping, manufacturing, engineering, construction and forestry. The added protection from the galvanisation process means that the steel is less likely to succumb to rust and corrosion, however, it is possible in certain conditions, so it's always best to check your ropes regularly.