Care and Handling of Bellropes

Introduction

Bellropes were traditionally made from hemp fibre which comes from the stem of the plant cannabis sativa. In recent years it has become almost impossible to obtain consistent supplies of good quality hemp roping twine so it has been necessary to find a suitable substitute.

Properties

Flax produces ropes which are strong and hard-wearing. However, the fibres absorb moisture from the atmosphere. In damp conditions the ropes become very stiff and shorten in length, which can be a problem in some towers. In the presence of moisture flax may also be subject to bacterial and fungicidal attack.
Perhaps the most important property for bellringers is the low inherent stretch of flax. New ropes show some stretch at first but this will gradually disappear during the first few weeks of ringing. In our experience it is not necessary to hang weights on the ropes or otherwise put them under tension since this has already been done during manufacture.

Bell Muffles: We also supply leather muffles which are fastened as indicated in the photographs below.

Rope Care:

1 Wear

The most common cause of rope failure is simple wear. This can be from two causes:

(a) Surface Wear. In nearly every tower the ropes pass from the ringing floor through ceiling bosses or guides, perhaps round pulleys and then to the garter hole. As the bells are rung the rope rubs against these various surfaces, however smooth they might appear, and over time the rope is worn away and becomes thinner.

(b) Internal Wear. This is most likely to occur at the garter hole where the rope is flexed through 180 degrees between each stroke on the bell. However well radiused the garter hole, the outside of the rope will be stretched and the inside compressed. This causes friction.

There are a number of ways in which this effect can be minimised.

i. Move the ropes up and down regularly on the wheel over 12-15 inches to spread the area of wear at the garter hole.

ii. For poorly radiused garter holes a leather sleeve will be helpful. (We can supply these)

iii. Lubrication will also help to reduce the internal friction. A traditional method was to apply tallow to the top ropes but there are many alternatives these days. The water-based wax finishes used for waterproofing will also lubricate the rope very effectively.

2 Moisture Absorption

In damp towers and those affected by moisture-laden air (such as towers near the sea) ropes will absorb moisture and become very stiff as well as shortening in length; this can be a real problem. Probably the best solution is to use pre-stretched polyester top ropes which are unaffected by moisture.
Alternatively the top ropes can be given a wax-based waterproofing treatment which will provide a partial barrier against moisture absorption.

Bacterial and Fungal Attack

In the presence of moisture the cellulosic flax fibres can be attacked by one or both of these organisms. This will lead to discolouration of the ropes, to weakening and hence premature failure. The top ends can be treated with a fungicidal agent which largely eliminates this problem.

Summary

It is not possible to give a definitive treatment for each tower but these notes will give a good idea of the causes of the main problems likely to be encountered. A common sense approach based on understanding will help to ensure that you get the maximum life from your bellropes. If you require further help or advice then we are always happy to give advice and assistance.

We welcome comment from bellringers about the use and care of bell ropes - Contact