FAQs
RIGIQ
A spliced strength can sometimes be shown as higher than an unspliced strength because the test setup is different.
In many cases, the unspliced rope is tested in a way that puts extra stress on the rope at the test fixture (for example over bollards), which can cause it to break earlier. A spliced eye is often tested pin-to-pin, which can be a gentler and more controlled setup for that rope construction.
So it does not mean the splice makes the rope fibres stronger — it means the measured result depends on the test method, fixture, and configuration.
Always compare like-for-like:
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unspliced vs unspliced (same test method)
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spliced vs spliced (same eye size, pin size, and setup)
Strength ratings for ropes and rigging systems are measured as a force (pulling load).
Force is commonly expressed in N (newtons), kN (kilonewtons), daN (decanewtons), or kgf (kilogram-force).
Using 1 kgf = 0.980665 daN:
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2300 kgf → 2256 daN
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3230 kgf → 3168 daN
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4510 kgf → 4423 daN
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5800 kgf → 5689 daN
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7090 kgf → 6953 daN
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9020 kgf → 8846 daN
Important note: Where strength is shown as “kg” on the product label, this refers to kgf-equivalent (kilograms-force) as a guide only. It is not a mass rating and must not be interpreted as the
mass of an object that can be lifted or suspended.
SABL (Spliced Average Break Load) / ABL (Average Break Load) values are determined under controlled test conditions and represent break test performance under primarily static loading. These values are not a Working Load Limit (WLL). MBS (Minimum Breaking Strength) / MBL (Minimum Breaking Load) may also be stated on product labels and data sheets. MBS/MBL is the minimum breaking value specified by the manufacturer and should be treated as the limiting strength value when assessing system capacity.
RIGIQ products are supplied with breaking strength information (MBS/MBL).
A maximum intended working load must be determined by the competent person by applying an appropriate Safety Factor (SF) to the breaking strength and ensuring the expected loads remain below that limit and below the ratings of all other components in the system.
Rope and cordage systems are commonly managed using a Safety Factor (SF) (also referred to as a Design Factor or Coefficient of Utilisation). The Safety Factor is the relationship between the product’s breaking strength (e.g., MBS/MBL/SABL/ABL) and the maximum intended working load applied during use. The correct Safety Factor depends on the application, the environment, the expected loading type (static or dynamic), and the consequences of failure. In many rope rigging and lowering operations (including tree work), loads may be applied dynamically (e.g., during catches). The system and technique must be planned to minimise peak forces and avoid uncontrolled shock loading such as excessive free-fall, abrupt stops, or hard catches.
- Typical Safety Factor guidance (set by the competent person/system designer):
5:1 – commonly used in controlled lifting system design
7:1 – commonly used for textile lifting slings in many EN-rated systems
10:1 (or higher) – often applied in rope rigging and lowering where dynamic effects and higher peak loads may occur
Important: These figures are provided as general guidance only. The required Safety Factor may be higher depending on the risk assessment, local regulations, industry practice, and operational conditions.
Note on terminology: “WLL” is typically a single limit assigned to equipment by the manufacturer under a defined standard. For rope systems, the competent person may determine a system working load / maximum intended working load by applying a Safety Factor appropriate to the task and conditions.