The Applied Technical Services Family of Companies (ATS FoC) provides wire rope failure analysis to determine the root cause of damage, degradation, or fracture and clarify how and why the failure occurred.
Wire ropes are continuously subjected to complex loading and demanding environmental conditions, increasing the risk of failure throughout their service life. Exceeding design limits or missing inspections can increase these risks. That’s why routine inspections for wear and fatigue are essential for long-term reliability. Once wire ropes meet discard criteria, they should be removed from service immediately.
Comprehensive Wire Rope Evaluation Services
At ATS, our experts apply ASTM, ASME, ISO, and industry standards to evaluate wire rope failures in both laboratory and field settings. We select the applicable standards for each rope based on its service environment and specific application to help ensure accurate, relevant results.
Our systematic approach determines how and why the rope failed by evaluating:
- Service conditions and load history
- Environmental exposure (corrosion, chemicals, moisture)
- Installation and maintenance practices
- Design suitability
- Material selection
What are Common Causes of Wire Rope Failure?
With our advanced labs and experienced engineers, we consistently pinpoint the root causes of failure. Common causes of wire rope failure include:
- Mechanical Wear
- Material Defects
- Bending Fatigue
- Fatigue Fracture
- Corrosion Damage
- Shear Breaks
- Heat Damage
- Internal Wire Breaks
- External Wire Breaks
- Inadequate Lubrication
- Sheave Damage
- Drum Damage
- Overload and Shock Loading
Applicable Testing Techniques and Capabilities
- Chemical Analysis
- Mechanical Testing
- Visual and Macroscopic Examinations
- Coating Analysis
- Lubricant Analysis
- Scanning Electron Microscopy
- Microhardness
- Metallurgical Examinations
- Materials Testing
- NDT/NDI
Preventing Future Failures
We go beyond failure analysis to help clients extend service life and enhance safety. Our team uses targeted solutions such as:
- Optimizing inspection and maintenance programs for reliability
- Recommending materials and designs that improve performance
- Implementing best practices for lubrication and handling
- Developing failure prevention strategies tailored to your operating conditions
Partner with ATS
Since 1967, ATS has delivered accurate, reliable results, enabling clients to make informed decisions with confidence. Across our growing network of laboratories, ATS combines decades of metallurgical and mechanical failure-analysis expertise with a commitment to technical excellence.
Operating under an ISO 9001:2015-registered quality management system and supported by multiple ISO/IEC 17025:2017 accreditations, we deliver accurate, defensible wire rope failure analyses that help our clients prioritize safety, reduce risk, and improve operational reliability.
Contact Us
Complete our web form or call ATS at +1 (888) 287-5227 to discuss your wire rope failure analysis needs or to submit a sample for evaluation today to get started.
