Rope tension is a very important maintenance factor in extending rope and sheave life, and also improving the quality of the ride.

A set of ropes is considered to be equally tensioned when the variation of the tension measured is within 10%. Rope tensioning should be re-checked after 4-6 weeks, after 6 month and then annually.

It is also important that the necessary adjustments are made by shortening the loose ropes and not by twisting or unwinding the end of the rope, this could damage the rope easily.

NOTE: If a rope has an estrange tension deviation from others make a close follow up and if the problem persists, a rope change should be considered.

If proper equalization of the rope tension cannot be maintained after six months, the entire set of hoist ropes shall be replaced.

Tension Equalization

Human error during installation.

Initial inequality in diameters of sheave grooves.

Wear of grooves and sheaves caused mainly by slippage of wire ropes.

Variation in rope diameter.

Uneven rope lubrication.

Consequences of Unequal Rope Tension

An unbalanced line can reduce the rope service life.

Vibration and noises are produced during the trip.

Uneven tension produces different degrees of contact pressure on the grooves causing slippage.

The slippage of the rope and the imperfect balance of cars make difficult to control starts and stops.