What effect does overstraining a wire rope have?

Overstraining a wire rope is detrimental as it can lead to a decrease in its diameter. When a wire rope is subjected to loads that exceed its safe working limits, the materials within the rope may begin to deform. This deformation occurs due to the excessive forces acting on the wire strands, leading to a phenomenon known as 'cable crushing' or 'wire flattening.' As the strands compress and deform under excessive strain, the overall diameter of the rope is reduced, compromising its structural integrity and load-bearing capacity.

This reduction in diameter can also lead to additional issues such as increased wear and fatigue, further diminishing the rope's lifespan and reliability. Additionally, as the rope's diameter decreases, its ability to withstand further tensile forces diminishes, making it more susceptible to failure in future applications. Understanding this concept is crucial for maintaining safety and operational effectiveness in marine and lifting applications.