5X26 WS (10-5+5-5-1) + FC Wire Rope: In the ever-evolving world of lifting, hoisting, and rigging, selecting the right wire rope can significantly impact your operations’ safety, efficiency, and longevity. Among the wide variety of constructions available, the 5X26 WS (10-5+5-5-1) + FC wire rope has carved out a niche as a flexible, fatigue-resistant, and cost-effective solution for a wide range of industrial uses.
At SSTC (Safe and Secure Trading Company), a leading supplier of wire ropes in Saudi Arabia, we are committed to delivering performance-driven and safety-certified steel wire ropes tailored to your needs. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the 5X26 WS + FC wire rope, including its specifications, structure, benefits, ideal applications, and buying tips for 2025–26.
What is 5X26 WS (10-5+5-5-1) + FC Wire Rope?
This rope type refers to a special wire rope construction that balances flexibility, fatigue resistance, and handling ease. Let’s decode the designation:
- 5X26: The rope is made of 5 strands, each containing 26 wires.
- WS (Warrington-Seale): A hybrid construction offering inner compactness and outer abrasion resistance.
- 10-5+5-5-1: This breakdown represents the inner wire arrangement per strand.
- + FC: Indicates the Fiber Core (instead of a steel core), which offers enhanced flexibility and lighter weight.
This wire rope is not for high-load critical operations, but it excels in environments where flexibility and cost-efficiency are key.
Read Also: Buying 5X19 S (1-9-9) + FC Steel Wire Rope: What You Should Know in 2025-26
Understanding the Wire Rope Construction
Warrington-Seale Structure
Warrington-Seale (WS) combines:
- Warrington Layer: Alternating large and small wires for compactness.
- Seale Layer: Uniform wire diameters that add resistance to outer wear.
This structure enhances:
- Fatigue resistance
- Crush resistance
- Smooth surface handling
Fiber Core (FC)
The fiber core provides:
- Better flexibility than steel core ropes
- Superior bend performance
- Lower weight and cost
- Better lubricant retention
However, it is less resistant to heat and corrosion and not ideal for extreme mechanical stress.
Advantages of 5X26 WS + FC Wire Rope
Here are the standout benefits of choosing this rope type:
Superior Flexibility
Ideal for applications requiring frequent bending over pulleys or drums.
Fatigue Resistance
The multi-wire construction ensures better stress distribution and resistance to fatigue cracks.
Light Weight
Thanks to the fiber core, this rope is easier to handle during installation and operation.
Cost-Effective
Typically more affordable than IWRC (Independent Wire Rope Core) ropes, especially in non-critical operations.
Better Bend Lifespan
Outperforms rigid ropes in high-bend environments such as elevators and cranes.
Applications in Saudi Arabia
The 5X26 WS + FC wire rope is widely used across many sectors due to its flexibility and economy.
Industry | Use Case |
---|---|
Construction | Light-duty hoisting, scaffold rigging |
Marine & Ports | Winch lines, mooring lines |
Oil & Gas | Tooling lines, general pulling tasks |
Logistics & Cranes | Counterweight cables, hoist lines |
Utilities & Farms | Fence lines, control lines, tension cables |
Its performance in moderate load and environmental conditions makes it a go-to rope in Saudi Arabia’s infrastructure and logistics sectors.
Safety and Inspection Guidelines
Proper use and maintenance directly affect the lifespan and safety of your wire rope.
Pre-Use Checklist:
- Verify diameter and construction
- Check for visible damage or deformities
- Ensure proper end fittings
During Use:
- Avoid exceeding load capacity
- Maintain minimum bend diameter (typically 20x rope diameter)
- Lubricate regularly to minimize internal friction
Post-Use Maintenance:
- Store in a cool, dry place
- Inspect for internal corrosion or broken strands
- Replace if more than 10% of wires in any strand are broken
How to Choose the Right Wire Rope
Before you purchase 5X26 WS + FC wire rope, consider the following:
1. Application Requirement
- Need for flexibility? This rope is suitable.
- Heavy lifting or high tension? Choose IWRC ropes instead.
2. Rope Diameter
Choose the correct diameter based on pulley size and required strength.
3. Environmental Conditions
Use galvanized rope in outdoor or marine settings. For extreme heat or corrosive conditions, consider stainless steel IWRC alternatives.
4. Breaking Load vs Working Load
Always use a safety factor of at least 5:1 when determining the working load.
5. Supplier Credentials
Ensure the rope is certified to ISO, EN, or BS standards. SSTC provides full traceability and test certificates.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Mistake | Impact |
---|---|
Using FC rope in corrosive environments | Premature failure and safety risk |
Overloading beyond working limit | Rope breakage and equipment damage |
Poor storage (humidity, direct sun) | Fiber degradation and corrosion |
Ignoring lubrication and inspection | Rapid wear and internal wire fatigue |
Why Buy from SSTC?
Safe and Secure Trading Company (SSTC) is a trusted supplier of industrial-grade lifting equipment and wire ropes across Saudi Arabia. Here’s why customers choose us:
- Custom-cut rope lengths available
- Certified products (ISO/EN/DIN)
- Fast delivery to Riyadh, Dammam, Jeddah, Jubail, NEOM, and beyond
- Expert guidance for rope selection and use
- Reliable after-sales and safety support
Conclusion
The 5X26 WS (10-5+5-5-1) + FC wire rope is an excellent choice for flexible, moderate-load applications that don’t require the extra rigidity of steel-core ropes. With proper selection, regular maintenance, and responsible use, this rope can offer years of dependable performance.
If you’re in Saudi Arabia and looking to source this wire rope for your next project, SSTC is ready to support you with high-quality products and professional advice.
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