SAFE. PROVEN. WITH A WIDE RANGE.

Wire ropes from BRUGG Lifting

by BRUGG Lifting

High-quality wire ropes from BRUGG Lifting. BRUGG Lifting provides a large range of wire ropes and steel ropes, such as hoist ropes, drive ropes, Diepa ropes and special ropes, as well as various rope end connections like shackles, thimbles and loops. Proven in use at construction sites, in production halls, at industrial sites, etc., for many years.

If you are interested, please contact us or browse through our online shop and catalog.

Graue Drahtseilspule mit aufgewickeltem Drahtseil.

How is a wire rope constructed?

Steel wire ropes are constructed from a large number of steel wires. The single steel wires are converted into strands. Afterwards, several strands are stranded to form one rope core around which the outer strands are laid in a final stranding process.

Some rope constructions feature plastic inserts. For this purpose, the final stranding is preceded by a further production step during which a plastic coat is applied onto the rope core using a special procedure. It is of course important to establish a sufficient amount of lubricant in the inner layers of the rope.

Selection of the appropriate wire rope

When selecting the appropriate wire rope, you must consider the rope properties, the type of the rope and the rope end connections. Here we give you an overview of the key aspects and selection criteria.

If you need further information about how to select the appropriate wire rope, we will assist you. Just contact us by telephone or email.

Rope properties

The key rope properties to be considered when selecting the appropriate wire rope include the rotation freedom and the direction of lay.

Rotation-free or non-rotation-free?

This decision must be made very carefully. There is no room for error. Short rope service lives, changes to the structure of the rope, abrupt and unexpected failure of the rope, etc. could result from a wrong choice.

Grafische graue Darstellung Drehfreie Seile von BRUGG Lifting. Mit roten Pfeilen entgegengesetzte Drehung verdeutlicht.

Rotation-free ropes

Rotation-free ropes must be selected when lifting an unguided load on a single rope line or when lifting an unguided load on several rope lines at great lifting heights. Rotation-free ropes can be used with or without a swivel.

Grafische graue Darstellung nicht drehfreie Seile von BRUGG Lifting. Mit roten Pfeilen markiert, dass beide Drehungen in die gleiche Richtung gehen.

Non-rotation-free ropes

Low-tension, rotation-resistant, non-rotation-free ropes must be selected when lifting guided loads, when lifting unguided loads on several rope lines at small lifting heights (e.g. electric hoists) or when lifting loads with right-hand and left-hand ropes operating in pairs. Non-rotation-free ropes must not be used with a swivel.

What is a rotation-free wire rope?

A steel wire rope is considered as rotation-free, if the rope under the influence of an unguided load does not, or does barely, rotate around its longitudinal axis and exerts a very low torque on the end connections. This characteristic results from the fact that direction of lay of the rope core is opposite to the direction of lay of the rope itself. Thus, when a rotation-free rope is under load, the torque generated by the core is equalized by the torque generated by the outer strands.

What is a low-tension wire rope?

A steel wire rope is considered as low-tension if, when the rope is cut, the wires do not, or do barely, pop out of the rope structure even without the rope being served and the pulled rope remains straight without resilience.

Grafisch grau dargestellte Schlagrichtung (Gängigkeit) des Drahtseils. Die Schlagrichtung (Gängigkeit) des Drahtseils ist die Richtung der Schraubenlinie der Aussenlitzen.

The correct direction of lay

The direction of lay of the rope is the direction of the helical line of the outer strands, where we distinguish between right-hand lay and left-hand lay. Both the rope and the strands feature a direction of lay.

Drahtseil - Kreuzschlag

Ordinary lay

The wires in the outer strands are laid in the opposite direction to the lay of the strands in the rope.

Grafische Darstellung in grau eines Gleichschlag Drahtseil. Die Schlagrichtung der Drähte (blau) in den Aussenlitzen ist gleich zu der Schlagrichtung der Litzen (rot) im Seil.

Lang lay

The wires in the outer strands and the strands in the rope are laid in the same direction.

Weisses Nachricht Alert Symbol.

Tip

As a general rule according to the German standard DIN 15020, for a grooved drum having a right-hand pitch a left-hand lay rope should be applied. Accordingly, for a grooved drum having a left-hand pitch a right-hand lay rope should be used.

The appropriate type of rope

The rope application determines the wire rope construction that may be used.

  • Use spiral ropes for static or virtually static applications
  • Use stranded ropes for all normal rope drives
  • Use spiral ropes with round strands for rope drives requiring a rotation-resistant rope

Rope end connections in comparison

Most end rope connections will reduce the minimum breaking strength of the ropes. The overview shows some common designs with the remaining minimum breaking strength of the rope in %.

Grafisch abgebildete gepresste Schlaufe.

> 90% Crimped loop EN 13411-3

Grafisch abgebildete gepresste Kausche.

> 90% Pressed thimble EN 13411-3

Grau grafisch dargestellte Schlaufe/Kausche mit Bügelseilklemmen.

> 80% Loop/thimble with stirrup rope clamps acc. to EN 13411-5.


Not to be used for rope slings!

Grafisch grau dargestellte gespleisste Schlaufe.

> 90% Spliced loop BRUGG
> 80% Spliced loop EN 13411-2


Loops must be secured against untwisting!

Grafisch grau abgebildete gespleisste Kausche.

> 90% Spliced thimble BRUGG
> 80% Spliced thimble EN 13411-2

Loops must be secured against untwisting!

Grau grafisch dargestellte gepresste Vollkausche.

> 90% Pressed solid thimble EN 13411-3

Grafisch grau dargestelltes Anpressgewinde.

> 90% Clamp thread (inside-outside-thread) with standard ropes BRUGG

> 80% Clamp thread (inside-outside-thread) with special ropes BRUGG

Grafisch grau dargestellte Anpresskopf mit Öse.

> 90% Clamp head with eye BRUGG

Grau grafisch dargestellte Anpresskopf mit Gabel.

> 90% Clamp head with clevis BRUGG

Grafisch grau dargestelltes Seilschloss.

> 80% Asymmetric rope lock EN 13411-6

> 80% Symmetric rope lock EN 13411-7

Grau grafisch dargestellte Vergusskopf mit Gabel.

100% Cast head with clevis EN 13411-4

Grau grafisch dargestellte gepresste Schlaufe.

> 90% Crimped loop EN 13411-3

rotes Warnung Icon

Please note that most end rope connections will reduce the minimum breaking strength of the ropes.

DID YOU KNOW …

...the various discard criteria for wire ropes?

These include wire breaks, broken strands, reduction of the rope diameter due to internal or external wear, internal or external corrosion, decrease of elasticity, deformations, waviness, bird-caging or protrusion of the core or parts thereof, protrusion of wires from the outer strands, rope swelling, damage caused by heat, crushes, flattened spots, kinks, bends or similar damage.

If you detect one of the above anomalies in your wire ropes, select new ropes from our catalog.

New wire ropes from our online shop

Visit our online shop and stock up on new, secure and industrial safety (EKAS guidelines) tested wire ropes. Our large range will definitely provide the suitable product.

Wire Ropes: Robust and Versatile Cable Constructions

Wire ropes are indispensable components in modern lifting technology, lashing technology, and numerous industrial applications. They combine robustness with flexibility and enable safe, precise, and efficient work processes.


For decades, BRUGG Lifting has stood for high-quality wire ropes and customized solutions for a wide range of requirements, from crane technology and load securing to demanding architectural projects.

What are Wire Ropes?

A wire rope consists of many fine individual wires that are bundled into strands and finally laid to form a rope. This structure ensures even load distribution and a high minimum breaking force. Depending on the area of application, different materials, such as galvanized steel or stainless steel, are used.

Wire ropes are used in:

  • crane technology, for traction ropes and load-bearing ropes,
  • lashing technology, where they serve as securing elements for high payloads,
  • lifting technology, as a component of rigging equipment,
  • architecture, for example, as guardrail wires, railing ropes, or structural elements in facade greening.

This versatility makes steel ropes from BRUGG Lifting an essential component of complex structures and systems.

Structure and Construction of Wire Ropes

The quality of a wire rope begins with its construction. In rope manufacturing, steel wire strands are twisted into strand ropes, which differ depending on the intended use.

A classic wire rope consists of:

  • individual wires that are processed into strands,
  • a rope core that serves as a support element,
  • and the outer strands that are laid around the core.

The rope core can consist of different materials:

  • Fiber core (e.g., natural or synthetic fibers) offers high flexibility and absorption capacity for lubricants.
  • Steel core ensures maximum strength and temperature resistance.

This combination of strength and elasticity enables the production of ropes that function reliably even under difficult conditions. BRUGG Lifting also offers fine ropes, round strand ropes, and special wire ropes that are precisely tailored to the respective purpose.

Wire Rope Assembly: Individually with the Rope Configurator

Every application places specific demands on rope length, diameter, and accessories. With the BRUGG Lifting Rope Configurator, you can precisely customize your wire rope to your needs.

You choose:

  • the desired rope diameter and construction (e.g., with fiber core or steel core),
  • the suitable material, such as stainless steel ropes or galvanized steel ropes,
  • the desired end termination, for example, loops, end sleeves, threaded terminals, eyes, or wire rope holders,
  • as well as optional wire rope accessories such as wire rope clips, swaged ferrules, shackles, load hooks, or swivel links.

Thanks to this configuration, you receive a perfectly fitting solution, whether for industrial use, architectural applications, or custom-made products in special lengths.

What to Consider When Tensioning Wire Ropes

Tensioning wire ropes requires precision, expertise, and the correct selection of accessories. For a rope to perform its function safely, several factors must be considered:

  • Use suitable wire rope tensioners to ensure even tension. If a turnbuckle is used, for example, an interposed swivel can prevent the rope from twisting during tensioning.
  • Pay attention to professional swaging of the ends so that the full minimum breaking force is maintained.
  • Use swaged ferrules, screw links, or copper sleeves only in accordance with technical specifications.
  • Regularly check the condition of loops, eyes, rope clamps, and threads.

Special attention should be paid to flexural fatigue resistance. This determines how well the rope withstands repeated loads, a crucial factor when used in hoists or crane systems.

BRUGG Lifting will be happy to advise you on the selection of the optimal accessories and provide recommendations for the safe use of attachment points, load lifting attachments, and personal fall protection equipment (PFPE) components.

Our Range of Wire Ropes and Accessories

The BRUGG Lifting range includes a broad spectrum of ropes and accessory components for professional applications.

Our product groups at a glance:

  • Wire ropes in various designs, including steel ropes, round strand ropes, fine ropes, and special wire ropes,
  • Traction ropes, guy ropes, and load-bearing ropes for different industries,
  • Stainless steel ropes with high corrosion resistance for indoor and outdoor use,
  • Accessories such as wire rope holders, eyebolts, ring nuts, wood threads, wire rope nets, or lashing systems for load securing,
  • Rigging equipment and lifting equipment for professional use in lifting technology.

Our products are tested, durable, and meet the highest safety requirements.

Learn more about our offerings on the pages about our rigging equipment and our comprehensive lifting technology.

Buying Wire Ropes Easily Online at BRUGG Lifting

With our online shop and catalogue, purchasing wire ropes and accessories is particularly easy.

The platform offers you:

  • an intuitive product search based on rope strengths, materials, and application areas,
  • clear technical data sheets with information on minimum breaking force and operating conditions,
  • a large selection of steel ropes, stainless steel ropes, and special wire ropes,
  • as well as accessories such as wire rope clips, swaged ferrules, load hooks, or shackles.

This way, you can find the right product in no time, whether for projects in crane technology, load securing, or architecture.

Training and Inspection Service from BRUGG Lifting

Safety is BRUGG Lifting’s top priority. That is why, in addition to high-quality wire ropes and rigging equipment, we also offer training courses and inspection services so that your work equipment remains safe in use over the long term.

In the PFPE course, we train competent persons for personal fall protection equipment. The Rigging and Lifting Equipment course teaches you how to professionally assess rigging equipment and recognize discard criteria. Both courses are practice-oriented and conclude with a certificate.

Our inspection service checks your wire rope slings, lashing equipment, and lifting equipment through competent personnel in accordance with EKAS guidelines (Swiss Federal Coordination Commission for Occupational Safety).

Learn more under Services.

Wire Ropes for Durable Cable Constructions

Wire ropes from BRUGG Lifting stand for quality, precision, and safety. They are essential for stable and durable constructions in industry, trade, and architecture. Whether for lifting technology, lashing technology, load-bearing ropes, guardrail wires, railing ropes, or applications in facade greening, our products combine reliability with technical perfection.

Thanks to our extensive range, the Rope Configurator, and our online shop, you will find the right solution for every project with us. Trust in decades of experience and the competence of the wire rope works of BRUGG Lifting to implement your projects safely and efficiently.

Learn more about our high-quality elevator ropes, load-bearing ropes, railing ropes, and facade greening systems.

Questions & Answers (FAQ) about Wire Ropes at BRUGG Lifting

Wire ropes consist of steel wire, for example galvanized steel or stainless steel. Depending on the application, fiber cores or steel cores can be integrated to achieve the desired combination of stability and flexibility.

Pay attention to the required rope diameter, the necessary minimum breaking force, and the area of application. For individual selection, the BRUGG Lifting Rope Configurator is recommended, which allows you to precisely adjust the material, construction, and accessories.

Crucial aspects are correct assembly, professional swaging, and regular inspection service. Only use suitable accessories such as shackles, load hooks, wire rope clips, or swivel shackles to ensure full load capacity.

A fiber core increases flexibility and allows the absorption of lubricants, while a steel core ensures maximum strength and temperature resistance. The choice depends on the respective application.

Replacement is necessary if signs of wear occur, such as broken wires, corrosion, deformations, or a significant reduction in rope diameter. Replacement is also necessary if the end sleeves, loops, or threaded connections are damaged.

Stainless steel ropes are characterized by high corrosion resistance, durability, and an appealing look. They are often used in architecture, for railing ropes, guardrail wires, or in facade greening.

Even tensile forces are crucial during tensioning. Use suitable wire rope tensioners and swaged ferrules. If a turnbuckle is used, for example, an interposed swivel can prevent the rope from twisting during tensioning. Ensure that the swaging is carried out correctly and that the tension is evenly distributed to achieve a safe and durable result.

The minimum breaking force describes the maximum tensile load that a rope can withstand before failure. It is a central safety factor and must always be adapted to the planned application, especially for hoists, load lifting attachments, or load-bearing ropes.

Yes, BRUGG Lifting offers special wire ropes and stainless steel ropes that are weather- and corrosion-resistant. These ropes are ideally suited for long-term outdoor use, for example, in crane technology, load securing, or architecture.

In addition to an extensive product range, BRUGG Lifting offers:

  • regular safety inspections through the inspection service,
  • practice-oriented specialist training courses, for example on PFPE or rigging and lifting equipment,
  • individual assemblies via the Rope Configurator,
  • and personal consultation for special solutions, custom lengths, and special fabrications.

High-Quality Steel Ropes in Various Designs with Tested Quality (Conclusion)

A steel rope is far more than a connecting element; it is a safety-relevant component with high technical precision. At BRUGG Lifting, you receive steel wire ropes in various designs, tailored to the respective application and manufactured according to international standards.

Our ropes, including proven constructions such as 6×19 or 6×7, are characterized by their high load capacity, flexibility, and long service life. They are available in individual lengths and conveniently by the meter, ideal if you want to cut a rope exactly to your project.

Thanks to precise end terminations and high-quality materials, our steel ropes offer maximum safety in application. Every assembly is carefully checked to ensure the required minimum breaking force and durability.

In the BRUGG Lifting Online Shop, you can buy your steel wire rope online and choose from numerous configurations, from standard ropes to special solutions in individual lengths or specific constructions. This way, you always receive the optimal combination of quality, functionality, and safety for your application.