Predicting the Creep Lifetime of HMPE Mooring Rope Applications

Under constant loading HMPE fibers and ropes show an irreversible deformation (creep) behavior that is strongly dependent upon load and temperature. This paper presents an updated model that seeks to accurately predict the creep rate at various temperature ranges and to estimate creep life of HMPE on fiber level, and demonstrates the apparent validity of this model to rope applications regardless of rope construction. The model may thus serve as design tool for long-term loading conditions as are found in offshore mooring operations