Under what condition should wire rope be taken out of service for running ropes?

The correct condition for taking wire rope out of service for running ropes involves the presence of six randomly distributed broken wires in one lay. This criterion is important because it indicates that the integrity of the wire rope has been compromised to the point where it may no longer be safe for use. Wire ropes are designed to withstand considerable loads, but the performance and safety can be severely affected by the loss of structural integrity, which is illustrated by the number of broken wires.

When there are six wires broken in one lay, it suggests significant wear or damage that could lead to catastrophic failure under stress. Recognizing this threshold helps ensure that hoisting operations remain safe and that workers are not put at risk due to equipment failure.

In contrast, while the presence of three broken wires in one strand in one lay, any visible rust or corrosion, or excessive wear on the outer layer are concerning signs, they do not represent the same level of danger as the specified number of broken wires. Each of those conditions requires attention, but the threshold for immediate removal from service is specifically defined by the count and distribution of broken wires.