One measure is strength, not length.

Steel Cord Strength rating higher than ST-800 N/mm at 6.7:1 safety factor was a break even commercial decision for many over the years. However, there are many caveats to this simplistic answer:

1. Splicing steel cord vs. fabric complexity and site assurance of appropriate talent and materials

2. Time to prepare splice in field

3. Corrosive environment

4. Need for high reliability - steel cord splices do right will last longer than a fabric splice

5. Need for ability to sustain high impact forces - shock loading - low strength rating equals small cables and low impact resistance

6. No space for take-up or need for fixed take-up and low maintenance with belt growth over time

I am sure others can contribute to the list. ■

There are many factors that define the selection:

1. Usually, by commercial decision strength greater than ST-800 N/mm with 6.7:1 Safety Factor is a break point

2. Site splice reliability - higher is better then steel cord

3. Site Spllice complexity - lower is better then fabric

4. Take-up space - smaller is better then steel cord

5. Corrosion resistance - fabric is better

6. High impact resistance - fabric is better

7. Lower power consumption - steel cord is better ■