Manila Rope
Manila rope is a specific type of cordage made from hemp fibers and commonly used in a variety of industries due to its strength and resistance to sunlight and saltwater. Manila rope is a very durable and flexible rope material, making its use essential in a wide variety of industries. Manila rope is used in fishing, shipping, ranching, construction, architectural, climbing and agricultural environments.
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Applications of Manila Rope
Manila rope is used in the crafting of handcrafts, bags, carpets, clothing, furniture and landscaping as with decorative fencing due to its visual appeal. More than aesthetics, the natural abaca plant hemp fibers used in the production of this rope are resistant to UV light and water, making it particularly useful in outdoor and sea contexts as does its ability to hold knots firmly.
Manila Design
Manila is fast absorbing and snap resistant, allowing safe use in pulleys and winches. Although it will burn at temperatures greater than 180掳 F, these ropes will not melt like many synthetics will. This heat resistance adds to the rope鈥檚 mechanical capabilities. While it does not stretch, manila ropes may shrink when wet. When a wet rope dries it can become stiff and tight. For this reason many new ropes are immersed in water and dried before initial use as shrinkage decreases with each wetting. In some situations, such as nautical knots, pre-wetting is not used as the hardening and tightening of the knot may be desirable.
Making Manila Rope
Manila rope begins with fibers from the abaca plant. This tropical specimen is native to the Philippines, making that country one of the largest manila rope producers. These natural fibers are spun to make yarn that is then braided or twisted to make the rope. Both twisted and braided varieties are popular, though twisted ropes are more susceptible to unraveling. As texture and softness varies among the abaca plant, the origin of a particular rope is important in the grade or rating of manila rope. This system takes into account the strength, manner of cleaning and color of the Manila hemp as well as fiber length. The natural qualities of these fibers are often enhanced with treatments such as copper naphthenate, tar or tallow to minimize loss of strength due to fungi, mildew and rot in addition to adding protection against chafing in high stress situations. While abaca fibers will resist water and sunlight, they are not resistant to chemical corrosion. The available treatments can provide this feature and prolong the working life of manila rope. While grade and treatment are important, further considerations include strength lifts, abrasion resistance, flexibility, lay and cord size. Rope suppliers may provide insight into the rope requirements for a specific task.