Is a Stainless Steel Or Galvanized Steel Cable Stronger When Exposed To The Elements?

Updated 07/10/2023 | Published 07/07/2023

Question:

I have a very large boat dock that currently has winches attached two trees. My 1/4" aircraft cable broke on one side, which has only occurred 3 times in 17 years. Should I change to a larger winch and 1/2" cable or should I stay with a 1/4? In addition, is stainless steel cable stronger than galvanized? Thanks

asked by: Tony

Expert Reply:

Generally a stainless steel cable is going to have less strength than a steel cable which has been galvanized. But since the galvanized coating will wear off a steel cable allowing for corrosion it does not have the life span of a stainless steel cable. If you move to a stainless steel cable you can offset the strength by increasing the size but if you go with another galvanized cable then you should just stick with the 1/4" cable. The galvanized coating is not going to last any longer on a 1/2" cable versus a 1/4".

expert reply by: Bud M