what would cause the most wear on a wire rope?

Answer 1

It depends on the application. Most wire rope is used on equipment that minimizes abrasion for long life and retention of reserve strength. Outside cranes are subject to the elements and long idle periods and common rust may be the biggest wear factor. Rust reduces the diameter of the wires and therefore its strength.

On inside applications like elevators the ropes are lubricated on a regular basis but are still subject to a condition called roughing. Named after the cosmetic rouge for its fine red dust like appearance. This condition is caused by friction between the wires and strands leaving a fine iron dust that oxidizes to this red color. Rapid interior wear follows.

Ropes also receive lubrication from an oil saturated hemp core but humidity changes still tend to dry sections of rope leaving the red dust. Breaks in the wires soon appear and the ropes must be replaced without any visible signs of exterior wear.

Answer 2

Friction that causes heat

Answer 3

Rubbing against something sharp and even harder...

Answer 4

abrasion