When is wire rope considered to be the strongest?

Wire rope is considered to be the strongest when it is new and unused. This is primarily due to the fact that new wire rope has not undergone any wear, corrosion, or damage that can occur over time with exposure to the elements or operational stress. New wire ropes are manufactured under strict standards, resulting in their optimal strength and performance capabilities.

When wire rope is rusted, its structural integrity is compromised, which can significantly weaken its capacity to handle loads. Rust can lead to pitting or corrosion of the individual wires, further diminishing the rope's effectiveness.

Unwound wire rope may not be under any stress, but its strength does not compare to that of a new, tightly wound rope. An unwound rope is also more susceptible to kinking and other forms of damage that can reduce its strength.

In summary, the optimal condition for wire rope strength is when it is new and unused, as this condition ensures maximum load-bearing capacity and durability.