Rope, cord, twine, and webbing

Chapter 11 of Volume 1 covers the materials used in ropes and cords, the various strac-tures, the means of production, and key properties. A discussion of the terminology, from large ropes to fine twine, can be found in section 11.1.2 in that volume. This chapter deals with applications, but it is worth mentioning the different forms that are used. 

Handbook of Technical Textiles. http //dx.doi.org/10.1016/B978-l-78242-465-9.00014-8 Copyright 2016, 2000 Elsevier Lid. All rights reserved 

In addition to more specific properties, a basic requirement is that the structure should be coherent. This is most commonly achieved by twisting. Traditionally short fibres, such as hemp, sisal, and cotton were spun into twisted yams. The yams can then be assembled into two- or three-ply threads or through the sequence of textile yam rope yam strand into three- or sometimes four-strand ropes. Circular braiding, or flat braiding for webbings, was the main alternative form. 

The advent of continuous filament yams led to new rope types in the second half of the 20th century. Twist was not needed to give strength, but coherence was still 

Courtesy of John Rylands Library, University of Manchester, UK. 

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