The winch cable on our trailer is old and needs replacing.
In addition to it's normal use on the trailer, we use the winch to help raise/lower the mast, so a strap isn't really an option.
(Not to mention i would need to modify the drum for a strap)
Has anyone switched their hand winch from steel cable to synthetic rope ?
Any pointers ?
I am concerned about UV degradation. Based on the linked document below, UHMWPE fiber retains it's strength well compared to other synthetic fibers.
"After UV-exposure, UHMWPE fibers show a slight increase in modulus and a decrease in tenacity and elongation at break. The direct irradiated fiber surface will degrade more than the non-irradiated core of the fiber. Therefore, the application thickness is of influence to UV resistance. Protection against UV radiation by use of coatings and jackets will extend the life time of the fiber/rope and is always advised in high UV radiation areas."
I notice that many winch ropes have sheathing on the inital section of rope. Is that for UV in addition to abrasion protection ? (The last few wraps on the drum, would cover the lower layers and protect it)
Edit: based on what the advertising for the rope shows, it has a section of sheathing that ends up wrapped against the drum, and another section at the shackle that they show covering the top layer when fully wrapped. Looks like it is designed for both UV and abrasion protection.
In addition to it's normal use on the trailer, we use the winch to help raise/lower the mast, so a strap isn't really an option.
(Not to mention i would need to modify the drum for a strap)
Has anyone switched their hand winch from steel cable to synthetic rope ?
Any pointers ?
I am concerned about UV degradation. Based on the linked document below, UHMWPE fiber retains it's strength well compared to other synthetic fibers.
"After UV-exposure, UHMWPE fibers show a slight increase in modulus and a decrease in tenacity and elongation at break. The direct irradiated fiber surface will degrade more than the non-irradiated core of the fiber. Therefore, the application thickness is of influence to UV resistance. Protection against UV radiation by use of coatings and jackets will extend the life time of the fiber/rope and is always advised in high UV radiation areas."
I notice that many winch ropes have sheathing on the inital section of rope. Is that for UV in addition to abrasion protection ? (The last few wraps on the drum, would cover the lower layers and protect it)
Edit: based on what the advertising for the rope shows, it has a section of sheathing that ends up wrapped against the drum, and another section at the shackle that they show covering the top layer when fully wrapped. Looks like it is designed for both UV and abrasion protection.
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