What material is most widely used for slings and is considered desirable?

The most widely used material for slings that is considered desirable is wire rope. Wire rope has several advantageous properties that make it an excellent choice for lifting and rigging applications. Its high strength-to-weight ratio allows it to lift heavy loads efficiently while being relatively lightweight, which facilitates handling and improves safety during operations. Additionally, wire rope is resistant to abrasion and offers durability, making it suitable for use in harsh environments where other materials might wear out quickly. It also has good flexibility, allowing it to conform to different shapes and configurations when rigging loads.

The design and construction of wire rope enhance its load-bearing capacity, and it is available in various sizes and constructions tailored for specific applications. These characteristics contribute to wire rope's popularity, especially in industrial settings where reliability and performance are critical.

Other materials, such as nylon and polypropylene, may be used in specific applications but typically do not match wire rope's overall strength and durability. Cotton is less commonly used in modern rigging due to its lower strength and susceptibility to wear and environmental degradation.