What is Carbon Bicables?

automatic cargo transport for a bargain

 

Before we start, it is important to note that aerial ropeways (also known as aerial tramways or cableways) can be divided in two groups: monocable and bicable mechanisms. In a monocable system, one endless rope serves to both support and move the carriers in transit. In a bicable (or tricable) system, separate ropes sustain these functions: one or two static support ropes, the "carrying ropes" or "track cables", and one or two light travelling "haul ropes".

A carbon bicable would be a bicable made with a carbon based rope, perhaps using carbon nanotubes.

I've seen some ropes of small diameter made with carbon fibres and a matrix, for instance a Cousin, but they are stiff!

http://www.cousin-trestec.com/en/cousin-trestec-en/sports-loisirsen/

Could they conceivably work for a cable car?

 

If flexible enough, they would bring a lower thermal expansion, more stiffness... And a doubtful reliability. Sorry, I just trust steel.

 

Dmitry91, so nice to see you here!

Marc

What do you think of the such structure?

 

(Molecular model of two coalesced DWNTs consisting of an outer dumbbell-like tube containing two parallel individual SWNT's)

 

Edited November 2, 201312 yr by dmitry91