The Choice Between Steel Cable and Dyneema
With electric winches, you have the choice between two cable types: traditional steel cable and modern Dyneema synthetic rope. Both have unique properties that make them suitable for specific applications.
Steel Cable: The Classic Choice
Advantages
- Extreme wear resistance - Resistant to abrasion over rocks, sharp edges, and rough surfaces
- Heat resistant - No degradation from heat from the winch drum or sunlight
- Long lifespan - With proper maintenance, steel cable lasts for years
- Lower purchase price - Generally cheaper than synthetic rope
- No UV degradation - Resistant to prolonged exposure to sunlight
Disadvantages
- Heavy - 80% heavier than Dyneema of equal strength
- Dangerous recoil - When breaking, steel cable snaps back with enormous force
- Kinks and frays - Damaged cable can be dangerous and must be replaced
- Sinks in water - Unsuitable for water-related recoveries
- Hand injury risk - Sharp wire ends can cause cuts
Dyneema: The Modern Solution
Advantages
- Extremely light - Up to 80% lighter than steel cable
- Safe when breaking - No dangerous recoil, simply falls down
- Floats on water - Ideal for maritime and water recovery applications
- Flexible - Easy to handle and coil
- Stronger per weight - Higher breaking strength at lower weight
- No hand injuries - Safe to grip without gloves
Disadvantages
- UV sensitive - Degrades with prolonged exposure to sunlight
- Heat sensitive - Can be damaged at high temperatures from friction
- Wear sensitive - Sharp rocks and edges can cause damage
- Higher purchase price - More expensive than steel cable
- Invisible damage - Internal fiber damage is difficult to see
Comparison Table
| Property | Steel Cable | Dyneema |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | Heavy | Light (80% less) |
| Safety when breaking | Dangerous | Safe |
| Wear resistance | Excellent | Good |
| Heat resistance | Excellent | Moderate |
| UV resistance | Excellent | Moderate |
| Buoyancy | Sinks | Floats |
| Price | Lower | Higher |
| Maintenance | Lubrication required | Rinse after use |
When to Choose Steel Cable?
Steel cable is the best choice when:
- You regularly pull over rocks and sharp edges
- The winch is exposed to bright sunlight (e.g., on a trailer)
- Budget is an important factor
- You work in industrial environments with heat and fire
- Maximum durability is more important than weight
View our range of steel cables.
When to Choose Dyneema?
Dyneema is the best choice when:
- Safety is the highest priority
- You deal with water frequently (sand extraction, hydraulic engineering)
- Weight savings are important (competition, expedition)
- You regularly handle the cable manually
- Quick recoveries where lightweight matters
View our range of Dyneema winch rope.
Need Help Choosing?
Our specialists are happy to help you choose the right cable for your application. Contact us for personal advice.