What is the choker capacity (vertical) for Synthetic Fiber Rope?

• A. 70% vertical
• B. 85% vertical
• C. 75% vertical
• D. 60% vertical

Answer: (C)

When a synthetic fiber rope is used in a choke hitch, the way the rope bears load is less efficient than a straight lift. The wrap around itself introduces friction and localized stress, which reduces the effective strength available to lift the load. For vertical lifts with synthetic fiber rope, the standard allowance is 75% of the rope’s rated strength. That means the choker capacity is 75% vertical. For example, if the rope’s rated strength is 10,000 lb, the vertical choker capacity would be 7,500 lb. The other percentages don’t align with the typical published factor for a vertical choke on synthetic fiber rope.