## Common ground
All options refer to locked coil ropes made from metal, used for lifting, towing, or securing loads.
## Options at a glance
**7312.10 – Iron or steel**
- **Defining trait:** Made from iron or steel, offering high tensile strength and durability.
- **Typical examples:** Industrial crane cables, heavy-duty winch ropes, mining rigging.
- **Best fit when:** Strength and load capacity are critical; used in construction, shipping, or heavy industry.
**7413.00 – Copper**
- **Defining trait:** Made from copper, known for electrical conductivity and corrosion resistance.
- **Typical examples:** Electrical grounding ropes, specialized marine cables, decorative rigging.
- **Best fit when:** The rope must conduct electricity or resist saltwater corrosion; not for heavy lifting.
**7614 – Aluminium**
- **Defining trait:** Made from aluminium, lightweight with good corrosion resistance but lower strength than steel.
- **Typical examples:** Aerial work platform ropes, temporary rigging, lightweight hoisting in aerospace.
- **Best fit when:** Weight reduction is key; used where portability and corrosion resistance matter more than maximum strength.
## Key differences
| Feature | Iron/Steel (7312.10) | Copper (7413.00) | Aluminium (7614) |
|------------------|------------------------|-------------------|-------------------|
| Tensile strength | Very high | Low | Medium |
| Weight | Heavy | Medium | Light |
| Corrosion resistance | Moderate | High | High |
| Electrical use | Not suitable | Suitable | Not suitable |
## How to choose
- Is the rope used for heavy lifting or high-stress applications? → 7312.10
- Does it need to conduct electricity or resist saltwater corrosion? → 7413.00
- Is weight a major concern, and is strength less critical? → 7614
## Overlaps & pitfalls
A copper rope might be used in marine settings (like aluminium) but only if electrical function is needed. Aluminium ropes may be mistaken for steel due to similar appearance, but are much lighter. The main function determines the best fit: **strength** → steel; **conductivity** → copper; **lightweight use** → aluminium. If unclear, prioritize the rope’s primary purpose