Wire Rope Inspection and Replacement Criteria Flashcards
6 cards from real NCCCO practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 Wire Rope Inspection and Replacement Criteria flashcards as text
What is 'bird caging' in wire rope and what causes it?
Answer: When outer strands permanently separate from the core, caused by sudden release of a load or shock loading
Bird caging occurs when a suddenly released load or shock creates momentary slack that allows outer strands to open up from the core. Once bird-caged, the rope is permanently damaged and must be replaced.
What type of corrosion is most dangerous in wire rope?
Answer: Internal corrosion at the core, because it's hidden and weakens the rope from the inside out
Internal corrosion is most dangerous because it can't be seen during visual inspection. It attacks the core and inner wires, significantly reducing strength while the exterior may look acceptable.
What is a 'valley break' in wire rope and why is it significant?
Answer: A broken wire that occurs in the valley between two strands, indicating fatigue failure and rapid deterioration
Valley breaks occur where strands cross over each other, indicating fatigue from bending. Valley breaks are more serious than crown breaks because they indicate advanced fatigue through the rope cross-section.
When inspecting wire rope end terminations (swaged fittings, spelter sockets), what should be examined?
Answer: Cracks, deformation, corrosion, proper installation, and evidence of the rope slipping within the fitting
End terminations transfer all load from the rope to the crane structure. Inspect for cracking, deformation, corrosion, proper swage diameter, evidence of rope slippage, and correct installation per manufacturer specs.
A wire rope shows kinking. What is the correct action?
Answer: Remove the rope from service — kinking permanently damages the rope structure and weakens it
Kinking permanently distorts the rope structure, crushing internal wires and displacing strands. A kinked rope cannot be restored to its original condition and must be replaced.
During a periodic inspection, how should the wire rope sections near the drum and sheaves be examined?
Answer: These are the highest-wear areas — examine carefully for broken wires, flattening, and wear from repeated bending over sheaves
The rope sections that repeatedly pass over sheaves and wind onto the drum experience the most bending fatigue and wear. These areas deteriorate fastest and require the most careful inspection.