Stainless steel wire ropes are usually made of 1.4401 material. This is a chromium-nickel-molybdenum steel with high corrosion resistance. It is largely resistant to sulfuric acid and chloride-containing atmospheres, which makes it particularly interesting for use in an industrial atmosphere or in sea air. However, restrictions must be made when using e.g. in swimming pools. While no problems are to be expected directly in the water, the material cannot withstand the chlorine gas-containing air. Special materials are necessary here.
Stainless steels are significantly inferior to normal steel wires when subjected to alternating bending stresses. For this reason, stainless steel ropes should only be used in winch operation, for example, where normal ropes are not permitted (e.g. for reasons of hygiene in the food sector or for special applications in the chemical industry). In these areas of application, they also perform well as sling ropes with a sufficient service life.
Real expertise is required when inspecting ropes. Often running ropes appear to be ok, but not only the external impression is decisive. Some types of ropes “die from inside” due to their construction.