NEIEP Mechanics Practice Exam

What is the breaking strength for 1 1/8" nylon rope with a safety factor of 5?

1. 24,000 lbs

2. 32,000 lbs

3. 40,000 lbs

4. 50,000 lbs

The correct answer is: 32,000 lbs

To determine the breaking strength for a 1 1/8" nylon rope with a safety factor of 5, it’s important to first identify what the breaking strength is typically for that size of nylon rope. Generally, a 1 1/8" nylon rope can have a breaking strength of around 160,000 lbs under ideal conditions. When incorporating a safety factor into practical applications, the breaking strength is divided by that safety factor to determine the allowable working load. In this case, dividing the breaking strength (160,000 lbs) by the safety factor (5) yields an allowable working load of 32,000 lbs. This strong emphasis on safety ensures that the rope can accommodate unforeseen stresses or weaknesses, promoting both safety and reliability in its use. With this calculation, the correct answer reflects the understanding that a safety factor must always be considered when discussing the practical strength of materials, particularly in applications where safety is paramount.