How to Stop Rope from Fraying

Whether you are cutting rope for the creation of boating deck lines or the hanging of tools, you can expect rapid fraying. This happens when the end of the rope breaks off into loose strands. It will continue and cause the rope to become unusable unless you take preventative measures. The appropriate choice of such measures will depend largely on whether you are using natural or synthetic rope. Read on to discover the method that suits you best.

Applying Heat

Heat can be applied to weld the frayed strands of synthetic rope together; making this suitable for the varieties of polypropylene rope sold by Renco Nets. You could use a cigarette lighter or blow torch for the even heating of the fibres. Alternatively, there is the option of using a hot knife to cut the rope from the roll. The blade of the knife should heat rapidly, enabling you to make a seamless cut through the rope. This will result in the flush sealing of the rope end, making it easier to use in the long-run.

Attaching Electrical Tape

Electrical tape can be used to prevent the fraying of natural and synthetic rope. However, you should attach the tape before cutting; ensuring that it is wrapped tightly for effectiveness. Although this method is quick and easy the tape will gradually work its way loose. Heat-shrink is a better option for attachment to synthetic rope. It is water-resistant and will remain more closely bound to the rope than electrical tape. Heat shrink can be used in combination with plasti-dip to further reduce the risk of fraying.

Back Splicing

Back splicing is another technique that can be used to seal the end of the rope without having to use a knot. This method will ideally be used after the end of the rope has been heat sealed. However, you won’t have to apply whipping twine or heat shrink, given the effectiveness of the splicing. Unfortunately, it results in added bulkiness, so isn’t recommended where rope is going to be repeatedly handled or transferred through a pulley.

The back splicing method should begin with the formation of a Crown Knot, passing the separate strands over each other before tightening the knot. The strands should then be interwoven back down the length of the rope. If the strands start to unravel then you should twist them tight once more.

Whipping

Whipping is a traditional and commonly preferred method for the prevention of fraying. It involves the use of high-grip twine and a single roll is likely to be sufficient for your purposes. Natural and synthetic roping varieties can be whipped, with a tidy and professional finish expected. However, methods such as cauterisation are sometimes preferred when it comes to the sealing of polypropylene roping.

Each of the ropes available from Renco Nets can be bought pre-whipped. However, you can also buy whipping twine and follow the simple process yourself.

Get In Touch

We hope that the guidance given in this blog will be of some assistance in the prevention of fraying. However, if you need any help in the appropriate choice of roping or fraying prevention then you should get in touch with Renco Nets. Send an email or to netting@renco.co.uk or phone 01469 575 804.