Cover ConstructionsAll Grand Prix Series ropes are fully customisable. Different cover constructions have different properties and performance characteristics.24 plait – thicker cover, offers excellent grip, good durability and flexibility. Easy to splice with all core configurations and is the standard cover construction for most running rigging applications32 plait – thinner cover, smooth running through blocks and sheaves. Often used when a larger core is needed for strength without increasing diameter, but is more technical and time consuming to splicethan 24 plait.48 plait – very thin cover, very smooth and easily expandable. Normally made with Dyneema® offering outstanding resistance to abrasion so used for chafe gear and covers for loops and lashings. Also used for standing rigging overbraids.

Source: Grand Prix rope solutions for a winning performance

MGP Core TechnologyMarlow’s Grand Prix Series offers a range of core options using Dyneema®, Vectran® and Zylon® (PBO). Each material has its own particular strengths and weaknesses.Dyneema® offers by far the best strength to weight ratio of any material used in rope manufacture and is the material of choice for high performance cores. At Marlow we offer a range of Dyneema® cores to suit strength and handling preferences as well as budget.Dyneema®is an Ultra High Molecular Weight Polyethylene (UHMWPE) and is available in a number of different grades. All grades of Dyneema® have excellent fatigue resistance (cyclic bending), UV resistance and abrasion resistance, but have poor heat resistance due to a relatively low melting point.SK78 is the standard material offering very high strength but significantly improved creep characteristics over its predecessor SK75 or equivalents.SK99 It offers exceptional strength (some 20% higher than SK78) and is unmatched in terms of strength to weight ratio.DM20 has slightly lower tenacity than SK78, but has one major advantage in that it exhibits virtually zero creep, which can often have a negative effect on a rope’s performance and strength, at high loads for an extended period.Vectran® (LCP) has the best creep performance of any synthetic fibre and can offer improved resistance to heat compared to the UHMPE family, but is far heavier.Zylon® (PBO) offers unrivalled strength/diameter performance coupled with exceptional resistance to heat and ultra-low elongation. However, PBO is very susceptible to UV degradation.

Source: Grand Prix rope solutions for a winning performance