6x17S (1-8-8) – IWRC Steel Wire Rope: In the world of lifting, rigging, and mechanical traction, the right wire rope is more than a material choice—it’s a matter of safety, efficiency, and performance. Among the many options available, the 6x17S (1-8-8) – IWRC steel wire rope stands out for its robust construction, abrasion resistance, and superior load-handling capacity.

At SSTC (Safe and Secure Trading Company), a trusted name in Saudi Arabia’s industrial supply chain, we bring you high-grade steel wire ropes like the 6x17S IWRC, tailored for demanding applications. Whether you’re managing a crane operation, mining equipment, or offshore rigging, understanding this wire rope’s capabilities is essential.

What Does 6x17S (1-8-8) – IWRC Mean?

Let’s break it down:

6x17S: The wire rope has 6 strands, each containing 17 wires arranged in a special “Seale” configuration.
(1-8-8): Refers to the wire arrangement per strand — one center wire, surrounded by 8 intermediate wires, and 8 outer wires.
IWRC (Independent Wire Rope Core): A steel core that replaces the traditional fiber core, offering greater strength and structural integrity.

This combination makes the rope ideal for heavy-duty applications, especially where resistance to crushing and abrasion is critical.

Construction Overview

Seale Construction (S)

The Seale strand design uses larger outer wires for improved wear resistance, paired with inner wires that provide flexibility.

Benefits of Seale Construction:

Stronger outer surface
Longer service life in abrasive environments
Uniform wear pattern

IWRC – Steel Core

The Independent Wire Rope Core:

Increases tensile strength by 7–15% over FC (fiber core)
Provides excellent resistance to crushing when used over pulleys or drums
Handles higher operating temperatures
Minimizes elongation under load

Advantages of 6x17S – IWRC Wire Rope

Exceptional Load Capacity

Due to its steel core, this rope supports heavier loads without significant stretch or structural fatigue.

Abrasion and Crushing Resistance

Perfect for winches, cranes, or sheaves where rope is repeatedly bent or dragged over surfaces.

Greater Longevity

Outlasts fiber core ropes in high-impact environments, reducing long-term replacement costs.

High Temperature Tolerance

Performs well in high-heat industrial settings (up to 200°C in some applications).

Stable and Durable in Harsh Conditions

From sandstorms to salty marine air, IWRC construction provides structural resilience in Saudi Arabia’s demanding environments.

Where Is 6x17S IWRC Wire Rope Used?

Here are the most common industries and use cases in Saudi Arabia:

Industry	Applications
Construction	Tower cranes, mobile cranes, rebar hoisting
Oil & Gas	Derrick lines, pipe hoists, platform lifts
Marine & Ports	Mooring ropes, towing lines, winch cables
Mining	Draglines, haul trucks, pulley systems
Utilities	Suspension cables, aerial lifting, cableways

It is especially valued where strength and safety cannot be compromised.

6x17S (1-8-8) – IWRC Steel Wire Rope: Specifications, Benefits, and Buying Guide

Maintenance and Safety Tips

Proper care of your IWRC wire rope ensures longer service life and fewer failures.

Inspection Checklist

Visual check for broken wires or corrosion
Confirm lubrication is intact
Look for kinks, birdcaging, or flattening
Examine end fittings and connections

Lubrication and Cleaning

Use penetrative wire rope lubricants
Clean with solvent before re-lubrication
Reapply after every 250 hours of use or exposure to sand/water

Storage

Store in dry, shaded areas
Keep away from corrosive substances or acidic materials
Uncoil carefully to avoid twisting

How to Choose the Right Diameter

Choosing the right rope diameter involves:

Minimum Breaking Load (MBL):
Ensure the rope’s MBL is at least 5 times your working load.
Pulley Compatibility:
Use a rope with a diameter at least 1/40th of the drum or pulley’s diameter.
Flexibility vs Strength:
Thicker ropes = More strength, but less flexibility
Thinner ropes = More bend, but lower capacity

Tip: Contact SSTC’s technical team for help matching your rope to your lifting gear.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Mistake	Impact
Using IWRC rope on small pulleys	Premature fatigue and internal wire break
Overloading without factoring safety	Rope snapping and system failure
Ignoring regular inspections	Sudden failure without warning
Improper installation (kinking)	Reduced lifespan, weak spots

Always follow ISO 4309 and EN 12385-4 guidelines for wire rope installation and maintenance.

Why Buy from SSTC?

As one of the leading suppliers in Saudi Arabia, SSTC offers unmatched value:

Premium-grade steel wire ropes (certified to ISO, EN, and BS standards)
Available in custom lengths and finishes (galvanized, ungalvanized, plastic-coated)
Expert technical support and rope selection guidance
Nationwide delivery to Riyadh, Dammam, Jeddah, Jubail, NEOM, and industrial cities
Full quality assurance and traceability

Final Thoughts

The 6x17S (1-8-8) – IWRC steel wire rope is a versatile and rugged option built for high-performance lifting, hauling, and structural support. When chosen correctly and maintained responsibly, it delivers exceptional safety and long-term savings.

For projects in Saudi Arabia’s industrial sectors, trust SSTC to supply you with tested and proven wire ropes backed by technical expertise.

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6x17S (1-8-8) – IWRC Steel Wire Rope: Specifications, Benefits, and Buying Guide