Wire Rope Structures

Wire Rope Structures govern flexibility – within a given diameter – and to a much lesser degree the MBS (Minimum Breaking Strain) MBL (Minimum Breaking Load) interpreted as Safe Working Load or “Breaking Strain” of the wire. See also our Stainless Steel Wire Rope Specifications for various sizes of 7×7 or 7×19 or 1×19

Rest assured that there are many OTHER factors also involved. Generally, the more wires twisted to make a strand, the more flexible is the overall wire rope because it deforms/bends without damage. Relevant terminology involves Wire, Strand, Core, and Rope

Common wire rope structures are:

• 1×7 indicates 7 thin wires twisted together into a very smooth finish. Normally only used in very thin wire (generally < 1.0mm). Consequently 7 individual wires twisted together construct a single strand of our premium wire. While this is the stiffest wire structure, its use on small diameter wire means the wire retains its integrity but the diameter factor results in a very flexible wire.
• 1×19 indicates 19 thin wires twisted together in a silky and therefore smooth finish. Consequently, 19 individual wires twisted together construct a single strand of our premium wire. This is a low flexible wire structure. As a result, it is the easiest to keep clean.
• 7×7 indicates a collection of 49 individual wires grouped as 7 sub-strands of 7 wires each. Consequently, 7 wire bundles twisted together form a single strand. This is more (medium) flexible wire than 1×19. As a result, it is for ‘general purpose’ applications and is most economical because it is commonly available.
• 7×19 indicates a collection of 133 individual wires grouped as 7 sub-strands of 19 wires each. Consequently, 7 wire bundles of 19 wires twisted together form a single strand. This is a very flexible wire for use in rigging or small cranes or winches rather than balustrade construction. Low Cost Wire does not recommend 7×19 wire for balustrade construction.
• 6×36 indicates a collection of 216 individual wires grouped as 6 sub-strands of 36 wires each. Consequently, 6 wire bundles of 36 wires twisted together form the wire rope. Normally only used in very thick wire (generally > 6.0mm).This is our most flexible wire
  for use in rigging or small cranes or winches.

Further information is available at this Wiki Page