Climbing rope
There is a wide range of ropes that are commercially available for those interested in climbing of any kind. The following table is a listing of more common ropes.
Common properties for each rope are listed.
The figures presented here are a guide only and are not to be used as the basis for deciding upon a selection of a rope for a specific purpose.
| MANILA | SISAL | COTTON | NYLON | POLYESTER | POLYPRO-PYLENE | POLYETHYLENE | ARAMID | |
| Strength - breaking tenacity-dry (grams/denier) | 5-6.0 | 4-5.0 | 2-3.0 | 7.8-10.4 | 7.0-9.5 | 6.5 | 6.0 | 18-26.5 |
| Weight (Specific Gravity) Able to float |
1.38 No |
1.38 No |
1.54 No |
1.14 No |
1.38 No |
0.91 Yes |
0.95 Yes |
1.44 No |
| Elongation (percentage at break) | 10-12 | 10-12 | 5-12 | 15-28 | 12-15 | 18-22 | 20-24 | 1.5-3.6 |
| Effects of Moisture (water absorption of fibres) | up to 100% | up to 100% | up to 100% | 2-8 % | < 1% | None | None | 3.5-7% |
| Degradation (resistance to U.V. in sunlight) | Good | Good | Good | Good | Excellent | Fair | Fair | Fair |
| Rope abrasion resistance (surface) Internal |
Good Good |
Fair Good |
Good Good |
Good Excellent |
Excellent Excellent |
Fair Excellent |
Fair Excellent |
Fair Excellent |
| Thermal properties (High Temperature working limit) | 300o F | 300o F | 300o F | 250o F | 275o F | 200o F | 150o F | 350o F |
NOTE: the table is to be used for a guide only. Consult your local climbing expert for specific advice.