How many broken wires in one rope lay length indicate replacement?

• A. 4
• B. 5
• C. 6
• D. 7

Answer: (C)

In rope inspection, you assess how many wires are broken within one rope lay length—the length of rope it takes for the strands to complete one twist around the core. This concentrates damage: if several broken wires lie within that single lay, the rope’s remaining strength in that spot is significantly reduced, which raises the risk of sudden failure under load. The standard threshold used here is six broken wires in one lay length; reaching that point means the rope should be replaced. Fewer than six may be acceptable depending on service and rope type, but the presence of six in a lay length is a clear signal to retire the rope.