General Information

Abstract

This document specifies the general characteristics of fibre ropes and their constituent materials. It is intended to be used in conjunction with the standards for the individual types of fibre rope, which cover the physical properties and specific requirements for that particular product type.
This document also gives some information on the use of fibre ropes and also on their inspection and retirement criteria.
This document does not intend to address all of the safety matters associated with its use.

Status
Published
Publication Date
03-Sep-2019
Withdrawal Date
30-Mar-2020
Current Stage
6060 - Definitive text made available (DAV) - Publishing
Start Date
04-Sep-2019
Completion Date
04-Sep-2019

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EN ISO 9554:2019 - BARVE

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Overview - EN ISO 9554:2019 (Fibre ropes - General specifications)

EN ISO 9554:2019 (CEN adoption of ISO 9554:2019) defines the general characteristics of fibre ropes and their constituent materials. It is a high‑level, cross‑sector standard intended to be used together with product‑specific rope standards that set physical properties and detailed requirements. The document also provides guidance on use, inspection and retirement criteria, and it updates the methodology for rope design and minimum breaking strength (MBS) determination introduced in the 2019 edition.

Key topics and technical requirements

  • Scope and application: General specifications for fibre ropes; not a replacement for individual rope‑type standards and not exhaustive of all safety issues.
  • Constituent materials: Natural fibres (sisal, manila, hemp, cotton) and man‑made fibres (polyamide, polyester, polypropylene, polyethylene, mixed polyolefin, HMPE, para‑aramid, LCP, PBO). Annex A lists typical yarn characteristics.
  • Construction and structure: Definitions and requirements for laid ropes (3, 4, 6‑strand), braided, double‑braided and covered ropes; strand interchange and lay length/braid pitch conventions.
  • Manufacture and treatment: Guidance on fibre‑specific treatments (e.g., polyamide/polyester, polypropylene/polyethylene, HMPE, natural fibres) and workmanship expectations.
  • Rope design and strength: Introduction of rope design methodology and strength realization factor; manufacturer sets the Minimum Breaking Strength (MBS) using internal statistical methods (Annex D provides statistical methods).
  • Marking, labelling and packaging: Requirements for marking by reference number, labelling content, delivered lengths, and invoicing.
  • Testing and quality control: References to test methods (ISO 2307) and visual inspection procedures; responsibilities for inspection and finished‑rope visual control.
  • Information for users: Annex B (defects and variances), Annex C (use and maintenance instructions to be provided by the manufacturer), and Annex D (MBS determination).

Applications - who uses EN ISO 9554:2019

  • Rope manufacturers - to define product families, mark and label ropes, and declare MBS.
  • Specifiers and purchasers - to compare rope types and ensure conformity with general requirements.
  • Engineers and designers - for rope selection, design checks and strength realization considerations.
  • Safety inspectors, maritime, offshore, lifting, rescue, arboriculture and sports professionals - to guide inspection, retirement criteria and maintenance instructions.
  • Standards bodies and test houses - for harmonized testing, labelling and national adoption (CEN endorsement).

Related standards and references

  • ISO 1968 - Fibre ropes and cordage vocabulary
  • ISO 2307 - Determination of certain physical and mechanical properties (testing)
  • Product‑specific ISO/CEN rope standards (to be used in conjunction with EN ISO 9554:2019)

EN ISO 9554:2019 is a practical, manufacturer‑centric standard for consistent specification, testing, marking and maintenance guidance for a wide range of fibre ropes.

Relations

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Frequently Asked Questions

EN ISO 9554:2019 is a standard published by the European Committee for Standardization (CEN). Its full title is "Fibre ropes - General specifications (ISO 9554:2019)". This standard covers: This document specifies the general characteristics of fibre ropes and their constituent materials. It is intended to be used in conjunction with the standards for the individual types of fibre rope, which cover the physical properties and specific requirements for that particular product type. This document also gives some information on the use of fibre ropes and also on their inspection and retirement criteria. This document does not intend to address all of the safety matters associated with its use.

This document specifies the general characteristics of fibre ropes and their constituent materials. It is intended to be used in conjunction with the standards for the individual types of fibre rope, which cover the physical properties and specific requirements for that particular product type. This document also gives some information on the use of fibre ropes and also on their inspection and retirement criteria. This document does not intend to address all of the safety matters associated with its use.

EN ISO 9554:2019 is classified under the following ICS (International Classification for Standards) categories: 59.080.50 - Ropes. The ICS classification helps identify the subject area and facilitates finding related standards.

EN ISO 9554:2019 has the following relationships with other standards: It is inter standard links to EN ISO 9554:2010, ISO 1968:2004, ISO 2307:2019, EN 12312-3:2017+A1:2020, EN 1176-1:2008, EN 13814-2:2019+A1:2024, EN 1176-1:2017, EN 14960-1:2019, EN 14960:2006, EN 14960:2013, EN 1176-1:2017+A1:2023, EN 12927:2019, EN 13814-2:2019, EN 13814:2004, ISO 9554:2019. Understanding these relationships helps ensure you are using the most current and applicable version of the standard.

EN ISO 9554:2019 is available in PDF format for immediate download after purchase. The document can be added to your cart and obtained through the secure checkout process. Digital delivery ensures instant access to the complete standard document.

Standards Content (Sample)


SLOVENSKI STANDARD
01-november-2019
Nadomešča:
SIST EN ISO 9554:2011
Vlaknene vrvi - Splošne zahteve (ISO 9554:2019)
Fibre ropes - General specifications (ISO 9554:2019)
Faserseile - Allgemeine Festlegungen (ISO 9554:2019)
Cordages en fibres - Spécifications générales (ISO 9554:2019)
Ta slovenski standard je istoveten z: EN ISO 9554:2019
ICS:
59.080.50 Vrvi Ropes
2003-01.Slovenski inštitut za standardizacijo. Razmnoževanje celote ali delov tega standarda ni dovoljeno.

EN ISO 9554
EUROPEAN STANDARD
NORME EUROPÉENNE
September 2019
EUROPÄISCHE NORM
ICS 59.080.50 Supersedes EN ISO 9554:2010
English Version
Fibre ropes - General specifications (ISO 9554:2019)
Cordages en fibres - Spécifications générales (ISO Faserseile - Allgemeine Festlegungen (ISO 9554:2019)
9554:2019)
This European Standard was approved by CEN on 7 July 2019.

CEN members are bound to comply with the CEN/CENELEC Internal Regulations which stipulate the conditions for giving this
European Standard the status of a national standard without any alteration. Up-to-date lists and bibliographical references
concerning such national standards may be obtained on application to the CEN-CENELEC Management Centre or to any CEN
member.
This European Standard exists in three official versions (English, French, German). A version in any other language made by
translation under the responsibility of a CEN member into its own language and notified to the CEN-CENELEC Management
Centre has the same status as the official versions.

CEN members are the national standards bodies of Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia,
Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway,
Poland, Portugal, Republic of North Macedonia, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey and
United Kingdom.
EUROPEAN COMMITTEE FOR STANDARDIZATION
COMITÉ EUROPÉEN DE NORMALISATION

EUROPÄISCHES KOMITEE FÜR NORMUNG

CEN-CENELEC Management Centre: Rue de la Science 23, B-1040 Brussels
© 2019 CEN All rights of exploitation in any form and by any means reserved Ref. No. EN ISO 9554:2019 E
worldwide for CEN national Members.

Contents Page
European foreword . 3

European foreword
This document (EN ISO 9554:2019) has been prepared by Technical Committee ISO/TC 38 "Textiles" in
collaboration with Technical Committee CEN/TC 248 “Textiles and textile products” the secretariat of
which is held by BSI.
This European Standard shall be given the status of a national standard, either by publication of an
identical text or by endorsement, at the latest by March 2020, and conflicting national standards shall
be withdrawn at the latest by March 2020.
Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this document may be the subject of
patent rights. CEN shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights.
This document supersedes EN ISO 9554:2010.
According to the CEN-CENELEC Internal Regulations, the national standards organizations of the
following countries are bound to implement this European Standard: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria,
Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland,
Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Republic of
North Macedonia, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey and the
United Kingdom.
Endorsement notice
The text of ISO 9554:2019 has been approved by CEN as EN ISO 9554:2019 without any modification.

INTERNATIONAL ISO
STANDARD 9554
Fourth edition
2019-07
Fibre ropes — General specifications
Cordages en fibres — Spécifications générales
Reference number
ISO 9554:2019(E)
©
ISO 2019
ISO 9554:2019(E)
© ISO 2019
All rights reserved. Unless otherwise specified, or required in the context of its implementation, no part of this publication may
be reproduced or utilized otherwise in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, or posting
on the internet or an intranet, without prior written permission. Permission can be requested from either ISO at the address
below or ISO’s member body in the country of the requester.
ISO copyright office
CP 401 • Ch. de Blandonnet 8
CH-1214 Vernier, Geneva
Phone: +41 22 749 01 11
Fax: +41 22 749 09 47
Email: copyright@iso.org
Website: www.iso.org
Published in Switzerland
ii © ISO 2019 – All rights reserved

ISO 9554:2019(E)
Contents Page
Foreword .iv
1 Scope . 1
2 Normative references . 1
3 Terms and definitions . 1
4 Manufacture . 2
4.1 Constituent materials . 2
4.2 Construction and structure . 2
4.2.1 Laid ropes . 2
4.2.2 Braided ropes . 2
4.2.3 Double-braided ropes . 2
4.2.4 Covered ropes . 3
4.2.5 Strands . 3
4.2.6 Lay length or braid pitch . 3
4.3 Treatment . 3
4.3.1 Polyamide and polyester ropes . 3
4.3.2 Polypropylene and polyethylene ropes . 3
4.3.3 High modulus polyethylene ropes . 4
4.3.4 Manila and sisal . 4
4.4 Workmanship . 4
5 Rope design . 5
6 Requirements . 5
7 Marking and labelling . 6
7.1 Marking . 6
7.1.1 General. 6
7.1.2 Ropes of reference number less than 14 . 6
7.1.3 Ropes of reference number equal to or greater than 14 . 6
7.2 Labelling . 6
8 Packaging, invoicing and delivered length . 6
8.1 Packaging and invoicing . 6
8.2 Delivered length . 7
8.2.1 Standard delivered length . 7
8.2.2 Shorter delivered length due to sampling . 7
9 Testing . 7
10 Visual quality control . 7
10.1 Responsibility for inspection . 7
10.2 Finished-rope visual control . 8
11 Manufacturer declaration . 8
12 Instructions for use . 8
Annex A (informative) Typical characteristics of the yarns for man-made and natural fibres
used in ropes, slings and netting . 9
Annex B (informative) Information on defects and variances .14
Annex C (informative) Information for use and maintenance to be provided by the
manufacturer .16
Annex D (informative) Determining minimum breaking strength .28
Bibliography .38
ISO 9554:2019(E)
Foreword
ISO (the International Organization for Standardization) is a worldwide federation of national standards
bodies (ISO member bodies). The work of preparing International Standards is normally carried out
through ISO technical committees. Each member body interested in a subject for which a technical
committee has been established has the right to be represented on that committee. International
organizations, governmental and non-governmental, in liaison with ISO, also take part in the work.
ISO collaborates closely with the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) on all matters of
electrotechnical standardization.
The procedures used to develop this document and those intended for its further maintenance are
described in the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 1. In particular, the different approval criteria needed for the
different types of ISO documents should be noted. This document was drafted in accordance with the
editorial rules of the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2 (see www .iso .org/directives).
Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this document may be the subject of
patent rights. ISO shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights. Details of
any patent rights identified during the development of the document will be in the Introduction and/or
on the ISO list of patent declarations received (see www .iso .org/patents).
Any trade name used in this document is information given for the convenience of users and does not
constitute an endorsement.
For an explanation of the voluntary nature of standards, the meaning of ISO specific terms and
expressions related to conformity assessment, as well as information about ISO's adherence to
the World Trade Organization (WTO) principles in the Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) see
www .iso .org/iso/foreword .html.
This document was prepared by Technical Committee ISO/TC 38, Textiles.
This fourth edition cancels and replaces the third edition (ISO 9554:2010), which has been technically
revised. The main changes compared to the previous edition are as follows:
— methodology for rope design and strength realization factor has been introduced;
— strand interchanges have been introduced;
— Table A.1 has been updated;
— Annex C has been updated.
Any feedback or questions on this document should be directed to the user’s national standards body. A
complete listing of these bodies can be found at www .iso .org/members .html.
iv © ISO 2019 – All rights reserved

INTERNATIONAL STANDARD ISO 9554:2019(E)
Fibre ropes — General specifications
IMPORTANT — It is the responsibility of the user to select a rope that is fit for purpose, i.e. of the
right size and with the physical properties that meet the requirements of the application and to
determine the limitations prior to its use.
1 Scope
This document specifies the general characteristics of fibre ropes and their constituent materials. It
is intended to be used in conjunction with the standards for the individual types of fibre rope, which
cover the physical properties and specific requirements for that particular product type.
This document also gives some information on the use of fibre ropes and also on their inspection and
retirement criteria.
This document does not intend to address all of the safety matters associated with its use.
2 Normative references
The following documents are referred to in the text in such a way that some or all of their content
constitutes requirements of this document. For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For
undated references, the latest edition of the referenced document (including any amendments) applies.
ISO 1968, Fibre ropes and cordage — Vocabulary
ISO 2307, Fibre ropes — Determination of certain physical and mechanical properties
3 Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this document, the terms and definitions given in ISO 1968 and the following apply.
ISO and IEC maintain terminological databases for use in standardization at the following addresses:
— ISO Online browsing platform: available at https: //www .iso .org/obp
— IEC Electropedia: available at http: //www .electropedia .org/
3.1
strand interchange
overlapping continuation, in a braided rope, of a single interrupted strand (or multiple strand) with
another identical strand which follows an identical path in the braid
3.2
minimum breaking strength
MBS
force a fibre rope shall at least achieve when tested following a recognized procedure/test method
Note 1 to entry: The MBS is set by each manufacturer, as per their own internal statistical methods based on
breaking tests. In Annex D, two statistical methods are given that can be used to determine the MBS.
ISO 9554:2019(E)
4 Manufacture
4.1 Constituent materials
The following materials are considered in this document:
a) natural fibres:
— sisal;
— manila;
— hemp;
— cotton.
b) man-made fibres:
— polyamide, PA;
— polyester, PES;
— polypropylene, PP;
— polyethylene, PE;
— mixed polyolefin, PP/PE;
— polyester/polyolefin dual fibres;
— high modulus polyethylene, HMPE;
— Para-Aramid, AR;
— Polyarylate, LCP;
— Polybenzobisoxazole, PBO.
Typical characteristics for these materials are given in Annex A. Specific applications should involve
technical discussions with rope manufacturers.
4.2 Construction and structure
4.2.1 Laid ropes
Unless otherwise specified, 3-, 4- and 6-strand laid ropes shall be Z-twist (right-hand lay), their strands
S-twist and their roping yarns Z-twist.
4.2.2 Braided ropes
The 8-strand braided ropes shall consist of four S-twist strands and four Z-twist strands arranged so
that S-twist strands alternate (individually or in pairs) with Z-twist strands (individually or in pairs).
The 12-strand braided ropes shall consist of six S-twist strands and six Z-twist strands arranged so
that S-twist strands alternate (individually or in pairs) with Z-twist strands (individually or in pairs).
4.2.3 Double-braided ropes
A double-braided rope shall consist of a number of strands that are braided to form a core, around
which additional strands are braided to form a sheath. The core lies coaxially within the sheath. The
number of strands varies, based upon the size of the rope.
2 © ISO 2019 – All rights reserved

ISO 9554:2019(E)
4.2.4 Covered ropes
A covered rope consists of a core protected by a non-load bearing cover. A parallel rope construction is
a covered rope where the core consists of a number of sub-ropes.
4.2.5 Strands
Each strand shall consist of an equal number of rope yarns sufficient to provide the characteristics
specified in the International Standard for the relevant product. For ropes of reference number 36 or
higher, the number of yarns in each strand may differ by one yarn or ±2,5 % from the intended number
of yarns in the strand.
The ropes and their strands should be continuous, without splice for standard delivered lengths or
shorter lengths. However, some lengths or methods of manufacture impose limitations. To overcome
these limitations, strand interchanges can be used, these shall be in accordance with 4.4.3.
Yarns may be joined as necessary.
The strands can be assembled yarns.
4.2.6 Lay length or braid pitch
The manufacturer shall establish the lay length or the braid pitch of the rope according to its intended
use, or based upon the purchaser's acceptance.
NOTE For a given reference number of rope, the smaller the lay length or braid pitch, the harder the rope
will be. This hardness can affect the estimated breaking strength of the rope.
4.3 Treatment
4.3.1 Polyamide and polyester ropes
4.3.1.1 Polyamide and polyester laid ropes that are required to be heat set to ensure lay and
dimensional stability are designated as type 1 ropes in the relevant product standard.
4.3.1.2 In other cases, polyamide and polyester laid ropes that are not required to have a heat setting
on the rope are designated as type 2 ropes in the relevant product standard.
If type 1 or 2 are not specified in a particular product standard, it shall be understood that heat setting
is not considered for that particular product.
4.3.1.3 The fibre producer or the rope manufacturer may apply a finish to the fibre to control friction,
fibre tension and reduce fibre damage during manufacturing. The total amount of additives or extractable
materials shall not exceed 2,5 % in mass.
4.3.1.4 Upon request of the purchaser, the manufacturer may use a coating or impregnation of the
product for special applications.
4.3.2 Polypropylene and polyethylene ropes
Polypropylene and polyethylene ropes shall be protected against deterioration due to sunlight (UV).
The inhibiting system used should ensure the expected performance in usage under the foreseen
geographical areas for applications, provided that the manufacturer is kept informed by the user.
ISO 9554:2019(E)
4.3.3 High modulus polyethylene ropes
4.3.3.1 High modulus polyethylene ropes are typically coated.
4.3.3.2 High modulus polyethylene ropes may be subject to a heat setting process. Heat set ropes of
HMPE are designated as type 1 ropes in the relevant product standard.
4.3.3.3 High modulus polyethylene ropes which have not been heat set are designated as type 2 ropes
in the relevant product standard.
Heat setting usually enhances the breaking strength of a high modulus polyethylene rope. However, the
overall life time of the rope may be decreased.
4.3.4 Manila and sisal
4.3.4.1 General
All ropes of manila and of sisal shall be made exclusively of new fibres.
4.3.4.2 Manila
A cordage oil lubricant of suitable quality shall be applied. The lubricant shall not impart an offensive
odour to the finished rope. The percentage of extractable matter based on the dry weight of the rope
shall not be less than 11,5 % nor more than 16,5 %.
When specified, the rope shall have a mildew-resistant treatment.
Anti-bacterial additives for manila may be added to extend the performance of the natural fibre when
requested by the purchaser.
4.3.4.3 Sisal
A cordage oil lubricant of suitable quality shall be applied. The lubricant shall not impart an offensive
odour to the finished rope. The percentage of extractable matter based on the dry weight of the rope
shall not be more than 11,5 % for an un-oiled product and not more than 16,5 % for an oiled product.
When specified, the rope shall be free from any oils and sold as un-oiled rope.
Anti-bacterial additives for sisal may be added to extend the performance of the natural fibre when
requested by the purchaser.
4.4 Workmanship
4.4.1 The finished rope shall contain no cuts, kinks or soft spots caused by change in lay or pitch length,
hockles, chafed or damaged sections, or broken, loose or projecting ends in the rope or the strands.
4.4.2 The unspliced ends of all ropes shall be cut off squarely and shall be securely whipped, taped or
heat-sealed.
4.4.3 Strand interchanges, when present in 12-strand ropes or sub ropes, shall be staggered along the
length of the rope and at sufficient distance apart. The interrupted and replacement strands are arranged
4 © ISO 2019 – All rights reserved

ISO 9554:2019(E)
in parallel over some distance and are buried or tucked into the braid so as to secure them into the braid.
To maintain strength, the strands shall overlap one another for a sufficient distance.
A test sample including a strand interchange in one strand shall achieve 100 % of the specified minimum
breaking strength (MBS) when tested in accordance with ISO 2307.
NOTE For strand interchanges in double braid ropes, see the relevant product standard.
The process of strand interchange shall be completely documented. Documentation shall contain at
least the following information and shall be available to an inspector upon request:
— length of one strand interchange;
— minimum distance between two strand interchanges;
— total length of the strand interchange;
— positions of the strand interchanges from beginning to end in the rope.
If required, every splice of a strand/part shall be permanently marked (for example by paint) on the
rope in order to enable early detection of a strand interchange slipping apart, and to distinguish a
strand interchange from damage. Strand interchanges are allowed only in 12-strand braided ropes.
5 Rope design
Ropes of different sizes are considered to be of the same design when the following rope parameters
remain constant across the size range:
a) rope yarn;
b) dimensionless lay of strand is fixed (= lay of strand divided by diameter of the strand);
c) dimensionless lay length or braid pitch is fixed (= lay of rope divided by diameter of the rope);
d) type of equipment used;
e) coating type, pick-up and penetration (when applicable);
f) quality control and splicing.
The design should be reported in a design specification sheet containing general information on the
company, independent inspector, rope design and prototype tests done to validate the design. This
specification should be made available to interested parties on request. See D.3.1.
The details of rope design and prototype tests should be given in a second sheet (see D.3.2). Details of
the fibre used for the design are specified in D.3.3. These last two sheets should be made available for
inspection by independent inspectors on request of interested parties.
6 Requirements
The main requirements shall be those specified in the relevant International Standard for the product
and shall include the following:
a) reference number;
b) linear density;
c) minimum breaking force.
The test methods for b) and c) are specified in ISO 2307.
ISO 9554:2019(E)
Other requirements, for example the lay length, the braid pitch, the diameter of the circumscribed circle,
and the elongation of the rope under specific tensile conditions, may be specified, subject to agreement
between the manufacturer and the purchaser.
7 Marking and labelling
7.1 Marking
7.1.1 General
The identification of the material, quality and origin of a fibre rope conforming to this document shall
be marked using a tape placed within the article (see 7.1.3) so as to remain recognizable despite soiling,
soaking or discoloration during use.
The tape shall be at least 3 mm wide, and shall be printed with the number of the relevant International
Standard, and a reference identifying the manufacturer. The maximum distance between two
consecutive markings shall be 0,5 m.
7.1.2 Ropes of reference number less than 14
These do not need to be marked, unless specified in a product standard.
7.1.3 Ropes of reference number equal to or greater than 14
A marker tape as defined in 7.1.1 shall be incorporated into the centre of one strand for 3-, 4-, and
8-strand ropes. 12-strand ropes can either have a marker in the centre of one strand or in the centre of
the rope. Double-braided ropes shall have a marker tape in or outside the core.
For covered ropes, the marking tape shall be incorporated between the cover and the core or within
the core.
7.2 Labelling
Each coil shall have a label, which is firmly fixed in place, giving the following information:
— constituent material;
— identification of manufacturer and country of origin;
— reference number;
— delivered length;
— reference to the relevant product standard.
8 Packaging, invoicing and delivered length
8.1 Packaging and invoicing
8.1.1 The packaging unit may be a reel, a coil, a hank, a box, a bag or as specified by the purchaser.
8.1.2 The finished rope shall be supplied in a package, so that it can be dispensed freely without
entanglement of any kind.
8.1.3 Either the unit mass or the length may be used to invoice the rope. When the gross mass is used
for invoicing, the mass of the packaging shall not exceed 1,5 % of the gross mass of the rope.
6 © ISO 2019 – All rights reserved

ISO 9554:2019(E)
8.2 Delivered length
8.2.1 Standard delivered length
The length of the coil shall be determined by dividing the mass of the coil by the mass per metre of the
rope, determined in accordance with ISO 2307.
The limit deviation on delivered length shall be
— −5 % for ropes with a reference number less than or equal to 14, or
— −3 % for ropes with a reference number greater than 14.
However, the gross mass corresponding to the delivered length shall not be less than the product of the
minimum linear density and the theoretical delivered length.
Standard delivered lengths are the following:
— 100 m;
— 183 m;
— 200 m;
— 220 m;
— 366 m.
Other lengths may be supplied for special orders.
8.2.2 Shorter delivered length due to sampling
To carry out testing at the request of the purchaser, test pieces may be taken from the ordered length
of rope. The length of rope delivered shall then be less than the ordered length because of these test
pieces (which are considered to be part of the delivery).
In the event that a specific length and testing are required, the purchaser may be invoiced the additional
length or mass of the rope required to perform such testing.
9 Testing
9.1 The minimum breaking strength shall be taken from a relevant ISO standard, or as agreed to
between parties, the manufacturer may use his own internal statistical methods.
The testing of the finished rope shall be conducted as specified in the applicable International Standard
and in the purchase order or contract.
9.2 The required length and number of test samples shall be removed from the selected test reels as
outlined in 8.2.2, if required.
9.3 Test reports shall be prepared in accordance with the contract or the purchase order.
10 Visual quality control
10.1 Responsibility for inspection
Unless otherwise specified in the contract or in the purchase order, the rope manufacturer is responsible
for the performance of all quality-control requirements specified in this document and in the applicable
ISO 9554:2019(E)
fibre rope standard. The purchaser shall have the option to have a representative present during the
control by the manufacturer. The purchaser, at his/her expense, reserves the right to perform or have
a third party perform any of the controls set forth in the specification where controls are deemed
necessary to ensure that ropes conform to specifications. A representative of the rope manufacturer
shall have the option to be present during these controls.
10.2 Finished-rope visual control
Each sample shall be subject to visual examination. The samples shall be selected at random. If any
defects are noted in the original test units, an equal number of additional test units shall be selected at
random and, if any specified defects are noted, the entire lot shall be rejected. See Annex B.
11 Manufacturer declaration
When requested by the purchaser, the manufacturer of the rope shall issue declarations of conformity
with the relevant International Standard when invoicing. These declarations shall always be available
for any of the phases of the distribution and/or usage of the rope.
If manufacturing declaration is required, it shall be requested at the time of placing the order.
12 Instructions for use
The manufacturer shall provide the purchaser with a set of instructions for the use and maintenance of
fibre ropes.
NOTE Recommendations on information for the use and maintenance of fibre ropes to be provided by the
manufacturer are given in Annex C.
8 © ISO 2019 – All rights reserved

ISO 9554:2019(E)
Annex A
(informative)
Typical characteristics of the yarns for man-made and natural
fibres used in ropes, slings and netting
ISO 9554:2019(E)
10 © ISO 2019 – All rights reserved
Table A.1 — Typical characteristics of the yarns for man-made and natural fibres
Physical properties Environmental properties
Interna-
tional Approx- Elonga- Abrasion Creep Sunlight
Melting Moisture
e
Fibre Standard imate Tenacity tion at resist- resist- (UV) resist- Effects of chemical exposure
point regain
a,b b b,d
for rope density break ance ance ance
type
kg/dm gf/denier N/tex % °C %
f
Polyamide ISO 1140 1,14 7,5 to 10,5 0,66 to 0,93 14 to 28 dry 5 2 to 3 218 to 258 4 to 6 3 to 5 Resistant to weak acids, alkalis
PA 6 and organic solvents.
wet 2
ISO 10554
PA 6,6
Decomposed by strong miner-
al acids.
Soluble in phenols and formic
acid.
f
Polyester ISO 1141 1,38 7 to 10 0,62 to 0,88 10 to 18 4 to 5 4 254 to 260 <1 4 to 5 Resistant to mineral acids and
PES organic solvents.
ISO 10547
Decomposed by strong sulfuric
acids and strong alkalis at a
high temperature.
Soluble in phenols.
Polypropylene ISO 1346 0,91 split 4,5 to 5,0 0,40 to 0,44 8 to 12 2 2 165 0 2 to 3 Resistant to acids, alkalis and
PP organic solvents.
mono 6,0 to
0,53 to 0,57 12 to 18
6,5
Soluble in chlorinated hydro-
carbons.
multi 6,0 to
0,53 to 0,57 20 to 24
6,5
multi 7,2 to
g g
0,63 to 0,84 16 to 20
g
9,5
a
Over-applied finishes can enhance abrasion resistance under both dry and wet conditions.
b
These columns are graded on a scale of 1 to 5, considering that 1 = poor; 2 = fair; 3 = good; 4 = very good; 5 = excellent.
c
Resistant to rotting, mildew and other microbiological actions.
d
Special additives, protective coatings and jackets can greatly reduce the harmful effects of sunlight (UV).
e
For specific service conditions of time, temperature and concentrations, contact the rope manufacturer.
f
Polyamide and polyester ropes shall contain not more than 0,05 % by mass of titanium dioxide.
g
Polypropylene multifilament of high tenacity.
h
Synthetic fibres are susceptible to UV degradation. When a fibre is used in a rope, the UV resistance can vary depending on the construction and other factors. Specific values should be obtained
from the individual fibre companies and the rope manufacturers.

ISO 9554:2019(E)
Table A.1 (continued)
Physical properties Environmental properties
Interna-
tional Approx- Elonga- Abrasion Creep Sunlight
Melting Moisture
e
Fibre Standard imate Tenacity tion at resist- resist- (UV) resist- Effects of chemical exposure
point regain
a,b b b,d
for rope density break ance ance ance
type
kg/dm gf/denier N/tex % °C %
Polyethylene ISO 1969 0,95 5,5 to 9,0 0,49 to 0,79 16 to 24 3 1 140 0 3 to 5 Resistant to acids, alkalis and
PE organic solvents.
Soluble in chlorinated hydro-
carbons.
Mixed ISO 10572 0,92 6,5 to 8,5 0,57 to 0,75 12 to 18 3 2 140 0 2 to 4 Resistant to acids, alkalis and
polyolefin organic solvents.
PP/PE
Soluble in chlorinated hydro-
carbons.
Polyester/ ISO 10556 0,98 to 1,15 6,6 to 7,9 0,58 to 0,69 12 to 18 3 to 5 3 140 <1 2 to 4 Same effects as those of polyes-
polyolefin ter and polypropylene.
dual fibres
High modulus Resistant to most concentrated
polyethylene 2,58 to industrial acids, bases, oxidiz-
ISO 10325 0,97 25 to 44 2,2 to 3,9 5 1 to 3 144 to 155° 0 4 to 5
3,9 ers, and organic solvents at
room temperature.
Stable to acids <90 % con-
Polyarylate
— 1,4 20 to 31 1,8 to 2,7 2,5 to 4,0 3 5 310 to 340° <0,1 2 to 3 centration and bases <30 %
LCP
concentration
a
Over-applied finishes can enhance abrasion resistance under both dry and wet conditions.
b
These columns are graded on a scale of 1 to 5, considering that 1 = poor; 2 = fair; 3 = good; 4 = very good; 5 = excellent.
c
Resistant to rotting, mildew and other microbiological actions.
d
Special additives, protective coatings and jackets can greatly reduce the harmful effects of sunlight (UV).
e
For specific service conditions of time, temperature and concentrations, contact the rope manufacturer.
f
Polyamide and polyester ropes shall contain not more than 0,05 % by mass of titanium dioxide.
g
Polypropylene multifilament of high tenacity.
h
Synthetic fibres are susceptible to UV degradation. When a fibre is used in a rope, the UV resistance can vary depending on the construction and other factors. Specific values should be obtained
from the individual fibre companies and the rope manufacturers.

ISO 9554:2019(E)
12 © ISO 2019 – All rights reserved
Table A.1 (continued)
Physical properties Environmental properties
Interna-
tional Approx- Elonga- Abrasion Creep Sunlight
Melting Moisture
e
Fibre Standard imate Tenacity tion at resist- resist- (UV) resist- Effects of chemical exposure
point regain
a,b b b,d
for rope density break ance ance ance
type
kg/dm gf/denier N/tex % °C %
Para Aramid — 1,44 to 1,47 22 to 28 1,9 to 2,5 1,5 to 4,4 dry 4 5 Decompos- 2 to 7 3 to 4 Resistant to weak acids, bases,
AR es at 500° water and salt water.
wet 3 to 4
Degradation can be induced
by strong acids and bases in
high concentration or high
temperature.
— dry 5
Para Aramid Decompos- Very resistant to acids, bases,
1,39 26 to 28 2,3 to 2,5 3,9 to 4,5 5 1,9 3 to 4
copolymer es at 500° organic solvents and salt water.
wet 4 to 5
— Resistant to bases and organic
Polybenzo-
Decompos-
solvents at room temperature.
bisoxazole 1,54 to 1,56 42 3,7 2,5 to 3,5 5 5 0,6 to 2 1
es at 650°
PBO
Degradation induced by acids
a
Over-applied finishes can enhance abrasion resistance under both dry and wet conditions.
b
These columns are graded on a scale of 1 to 5, considering that 1 = poor; 2 = fair; 3 = good; 4 = very good; 5 = excellent.
c
Resistant to rotting, mildew and other microbiological actions.
d
Special additives, protective coatings and jackets can greatly reduce the harmful effects of sunlight (UV).
e
For specific service conditions of time, temperature and concentrations, contact the rope manufacturer.
f
Polyamide and polyester ropes shall contain not more than 0,05 % by mass of titanium dioxide.
g
Polypropylene multifilament of high tenacity.
h
Synthetic fibres are susceptible to UV degradation. When a fibre is used in a rope, the UV resistance can vary depending on the construction and other factors. Specific values should be obtained
from the individual fibre companies and the rope manufacturers.

ISO 9554:2019(E)
Table A.1 — (continued)
Physical properties Environmental properties
Interna-
Environ-
tional Approx- Elonga- Abrasion Creep Mois- Sunlight
Melting mental re- Effects of chemical expo-
Fibre Standard imate Tenacity tion at resist- resist- ture (UV) re-
bc e
point sistance sure
a,b b b,d
for rope density break ance ance regain sistance
(natural fibres)
type
kg/dm gf/denier N/tex % °C %
Cotton — 1,54 2,0 to 3,0 0,18-0,26 2 to 3 2 5 Chars at 100 1 to 2 3 to 4 Degradation by acids in
148 high concentration or high
temperature.
Resistant to alkalis. Degra-
dation by organic solvents
and sea water.
Sisal ISO 1181 1,38 2,0 to 2,5 0,18 to 0,22 6 to 12 2 5 Chars at 100 1 3 to 4 Resistant to alkalis and or-
148 ganic solvents. Degradation
by acids of high concentra-
tion or at a high temperature.
Manila ISO 1181 1,35 2,5 to 3,0 0,22 to 0,26 6 to 10 2 5 Chars at 100 1 to 2 3 to 4 Resistant to organic sol-
148 vents. Degradation by acids
of high concentration or at a
high temperature.
Hemp EN 1261 1,35 2,5 to 3,5 0,26 to 0,31 6 to 12 2 to 3 5 Chars at 100 1 to 2 3 to 4 Resistant to organic sol-
148 vents. Degradation by acids
of high concentration or at a
high temperature.
a
Over-applied finishes can enhance abrasion resistance under both dry and wet conditions.
b
These columns are graded on a scale of 1 to 5, considering that 1 = poor; 2 = fair; 3 = good; 4 = very good; 5 = excellent.
c
Resistant to rotting, mildew and other microbiological actions.
d
Special additives, protective coatings and jackets can greatly reduce the harmful effects of sunlight (UV).
e
For specific service conditions of time, temperature and concentrations, contact the rope manufacturer.
f
Polyamide and polyester ropes shall contain not more than 0,05 % by mass of titanium dioxide.
g
Polypropylene multifilament of high tenacity.
h
Synthetic fibres are susceptible to UV degradation. When a fibre is used in a rope, the UV resistance can vary depending on the construction and other factors. Specific values should be obtained
from the individual fibre companies and the rope manufacturers.

ISO 9554:2019(E)
Annex B
(informative)
Information on defects and variances
B.1 Major defects
Major defects include the following:
a) any cuts, snags, pulled yarns or strands, and/or kinks;
b) any damaged sections;
c) uneven (overly tight or loose) braiding, resulting in braid discontinuity, or soft spots;
d) any rope ends knotted or spliced to make a continuous standard length;
e) yarns (fibres) per strand or number of strands not as specified;
f) braid pattern not as specified;
g) lay or braid pitch not within specification required by the customer;
h) identification marker, if required, omitted or incorrect;
i) colour not as specified;
j) more-than-allowable strand interchanges.
B.2 Minor defects
Minor defects include the following:
a) broken, loose or projecting ends in the rope or strand;
b) excessive loose fibre ends on the surface or in gaps between strands;
c) ends not cut off squarely, or not securely whipped, taped or heat-sealed;
d) clearly visible and excessive stains;
e) any chaffed sections.
B.3 Unit and/or packaging variances
B.3.1 Unit
Variances with regard to length or mass exists if any of the following are determined during inspection:
a) length of unit is less than specified;
b) net mass of unit is exceeding permitted tolerance;
c) package units not in continuous length for standard lengths, unless otherwise agreed to on the
purchase order or contract.
14 © ISO 2019 – All rights reserved

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