Which wire rope classification is least flexible?

The classification of wire rope refers to the construction of the strand and the number of yarns that make up each strand. In this context, the flexibility of wire rope is influenced by the number of wires in each strand and strands themselves.

The classification "6 x 12" indicates that there are six strands, and each strand is composed of twelve wires. The fewer the number of wires per strand, the less flexible the wire rope tends to be. A rope with less wire in its construction typically has a larger diameter for any equivalent strength and is consequently less able to bend and maneuver around corners without kinking or twisting.

In contrast, classifications such as "6 x 19," "6 x 23," and "6 x 37" each feature a greater number of wires per strand—19, 23, and 37, respectively. These configurations allow for greater flexibility, as more wires can better adapt to bending and flexing.

Thus, the classification "6 x 12" is indeed the least flexible type of wire rope among the options provided. This understanding is crucial in applications where maneuverability of the wire rope is important, helping professionals select the appropriate type for specific tasks.