The Essential Guide to Rope Splicing

If you’re a returning reader of the Renco Nets blog then you’ll know that ropes can be knotted for such purposes as tent grounding and clothesline hanging. Although such knots are fairly easy to tie, they aren’t always pleasing to the eye. With their tight bends and compressions, knots can also reduce the strength of the rope by up to 60% (depending on the type of rope, knot and material). However, more than 90% of the rope’s strength can be retained through the splicing of a semi-permanent joint between two ropes or sections of the same rope.

Splicing different types of ropes

The rope splicing process involves the partial untwisting and interweaving of the rope’s strands for the formation of a strong loop (or eye). While splices are typically applied to three-stranded rope, such as our 10mm Polypropylene 3 Strand Spiltfilm Rope, single braided rope with more than 12 strands can also be connected in this way.

Most three-strand ropes can be spliced easily by hand, provided that they aren’t too thick or thin. However, you may find it easier to use a fid for the splicing of double-sided ropes and braids with parallel cores. Aim to make the splice uniform and taught, cutting the ends off with a hot knife of flame for sealing.

Rope splicing methods

Eye splicing is the most commonly used technique where the rope has to be attached to a fixed point (perhaps a tree branch or garden post). This begins with the unravelling of the rope strands, with the ends being sealed and the loose section being taped. The rope should then be looped back on itself, with the loose ends being interwoven to create a secure join.

Other rope splicing methods include:

• Back splice – this involves the reconnection of the unravelled strands without forming a loop. It allows for the rope end to be finished and prevents fraying
• Cut splice – commonly used for light lines, this involves the formation of a tight join between two ropes with the ends being slightly side spliced apart
• Long splice – the best option for the joining of rope with a minimal diameter increase, this involves the connection of two rope ends for the formation of one elongated rope. It may allow the rope to be passed through a pulley
• Short splice – also involving the connection of two rope ends, this results in a distinctively thick and strong splice.

Choose Renco Nets

Although rope splicing isn’t particularly complex, the dangers are such that it’s best to opt for a professional and bespoke service. Thankfully you can rely on Renco Nets for the safe and secure splicing of ropes with high weight capacities. If you’d like to arrange the creation of spliced polypropylene ropes then give us a call on +44 (0) 1469 575 804 or email netting@renco.co.uk.