Our forensic laboratory supports detailed evaluation of wire ropes that are new, retired, or removed from service. By conducting thorough forensic testing, we help customers understand the condition of their ropes and support decisions such as “slip and cut” or post-service assessments. Each investigation is tailored to the customer’s scope and may include failure analysis, dimensional checks, post-spin testing, metallurgical examination, destructive testing, and post-fracture evaluations.

The Bekaert Ropes Technology Centre is equipped with a full suite of mechanical testing systems that comply with international standards. Our capabilities include CBOS fatigue machines, multilayer spooling evaluation, rope torque measurement and wire strength and ductility testing.

We use metallurgical microscopes to evaluate steel microstructures, along with stereo and digital microscopes to capture high-resolution images of wire surfaces. Hardness testing is conducted to assess both general material hardness and the hardness of individual phases in the steel. Our capabilities include metallurgical microscopy, stereo microscopy, 3D digital microscopy, and micro/macro hardness testing. In-house sample preparation equipment enables quick and precise microstructure examinations.

Although advanced inspections can test the majority of the rope, the best way to fully maintain and recertify a rope is to run it through our mid-life recertification. A rope is run onto a winch and can be immediately reinstalled or optionally a second rope can be installed. A report is produced and the rope is good to go, similar to a car service.

Post-life analysis involves removing a rope from service early and analyzing it in detail. This identifies wear and tear of the rope, allowing for alterations to extend the next rope's lifespan.