Comprehensive model and testing method for fatigue life of fiber ropes in cyclic tension

Tensile fatigue testing standards in the fiber rope industry have been limited in scope and focused on specific applications. The “Thousand Cycle Load Level” (TCLL) defined in Part F of the Guidelines for the Purchasing and Testing of SPM Hawsers [1] by the Oil Companies International Marine Forum (OCIMF) is commonly referenced. That standard was designed for low modulus (nylon, polyester, etc.) cordage used in single point offshore mooring. However, the cordage industry increasingly uses high modulus (high modulus polyethylene (HMPE), aramid, etc.) fibers with characteristics that differ significantly from low modulus fibers in applications that differ significantly from single point mooring. Therefore, this diversity in cordage applications requires a tension fatigue test methodology that is more broadly applicable.