During a wire rope inspection, which of the following should be checked?

When inspecting a wire rope, one key aspect to examine is kinks. Kinks in a wire rope can create weak points and can significantly compromise the integrity and safety of the rope. A kink can prevent the rope from unwinding properly, leading to uneven loading and potentially causing the rope to fail under tension. Therefore, it's essential to look for any signs of kinking during an inspection, as this is a critical factor in assessing the overall condition of the wire rope.

While wear and tear, length, and braking force are also important aspects to consider during a wire rope inspection, the presence of kinks directly impacts the operational safety and reliability in a more immediate context. Kinks can indicate improper handling or fatigue, and addressing them is vital to ensure the rope can perform its intended function safely.