Wire Rope Netting
Wire rope netting provides high-strength surface stabilization for steep, fractured, or unstable rock slopes. Built from interwoven steel cables, this system offers exceptional durability and energy absorption—making it ideal for demanding rockfall environments.
Understanding Wire Rope Netting
Wire rope netting provides high-strength surface stabilization for steep, fractured, or unstable rock slopes. Built from interwoven steel cables, this system offers exceptional durability and energy absorption—making it ideal for demanding rockfall environments.
The heavy-duty construction handles impact energies that exceed standard wire mesh capabilities, protecting critical infrastructure from large-block rockfall.
This technique is used in our services for:
Mesh & Barrier Systems 
Rock Anchoring 
Rope Access Typical Applications
How It Works
Our proven methodology ensures consistent, high-quality results for every installation.
Design Analysis
Calculate kinetic energy of potential rockfall to specify net capacity and anchor requirements.
Anchor Installation
Heavy-duty perimeter anchors are drilled and grouted at designed spacing.
Net Placement
Wire rope panels are lifted into position by crane or helicopter and secured to anchors.
Seaming & Tensioning
Panels are laced together with wire rope for continuous strength and proper tensioning.
Key Advantages
Extreme Impact Resistance
Wire rope construction absorbs and distributes high-energy impacts that would damage standard wire mesh systems.
Multi-Ton Capacity
Designed to contain boulders weighing several tons, protecting infrastructure from catastrophic rockfall events.
Superior Durability
Galvanized or stainless steel cables resist corrosion and abrasion for decades of reliable service.
Steep Terrain Performance
Heavy-duty anchoring allows installation on vertical and overhanging faces where maximum strength is required.
Low Maintenance
Robust construction requires minimal maintenance beyond periodic inspection and debris removal.
Technical Considerations
Soil/Rock Conditions
Requires competent rock for heavy-duty perimeter anchors. Net capacity matched to expected block sizes and impact energies.
Groundwater
Wire rope systems drain freely. No water retention issues. Corrosion protection essential for long-term durability.
Load Capacity
System capacity determined by cable diameter, grid pattern, and anchor strength. Impact ratings up to 5000 kJ available.
Spacing
Anchor spacing based on net weight, slope angle, and design loading. Perimeter anchors carry highest loads.
Installation Method
Nets fabricated off-site, lifted into position by crane or helicopter, connected to anchors and laced at panel seams.
Equipment Used
- Heavy-lift cranes or helicopters
- Large-diameter drill rigs
- Specialized cable termination tools
- Rope-access rigging systems
- Tensioning equipment
Limitations
- Higher material cost than wire mesh
- Requires crane or helicopter access for installation
- Heavy panels require specialized handling
- Anchor capacity critical for system performance
Technical Specifications
System Variations
Cable Net Systems
Interwoven steel cables forming a flexible, high-strength containment surface.
Best For:
- Large boulder retention
- High-energy zones
- Critical infrastructure
Cable + Ring Net Hybrids
Combination of cable grid with ring net panels for enhanced energy absorption.
Best For:
- Extreme impact zones
- Barrier integration
- Maximum protection
Border-Rope Reinforced
Enhanced edge ropes and corner details for severe loading conditions.
Best For:
- High-wind exposure
- Extreme weather
- Long-span installations
Stainless Steel Systems
Stainless steel cables for maximum corrosion resistance in aggressive environments.
Best For:
- Marine environments
- Acidic conditions
- Ultra-long design life
Integration With Other Systems
Rock Bolts and Dowels
Heavy-duty bolts anchor the net system while reinforcing the underlying rock mass.
Learn More
Mid-Slope Attenuators
Attenuator panels slow and redirect debris before it reaches the primary containment net.
Learn More
Rockfall Barriers
Fence-style barriers provide secondary containment for debris escaping the slope system.
Learn More
Shotcrete Hybrid
Wire rope net provides impact protection over shotcrete-stabilized zones.
Learn MoreExample Project Types
- Ultra-steep quarry walls
- Critical transportation corridors
- Mining haul road protection
- Dam and spillway rockfall zones
- Ski resort terrain management
- Railway canyon protection
- High-value infrastructure sites
Our Work in Action
Why Choose Rock Supremacy for Wire Rope Netting
In-House Rigging Specialists
Our crews have extensive experience handling heavy cable net systems in challenging terrain.
Rope-Access Experts
Trained technicians install and connect nets on vertical and overhanging faces.
Custom Solutions
We design net systems for specific impact conditions, matching cable diameter and grid to expected loading.
Helicopter Capability
We coordinate helicopter lifts for remote sites where crane access is impossible.
Complete Integration
Wire rope netting is combined with bolting, barriers, and other systems for comprehensive protection.
Our Work
See how we've applied this technique and others to solve real-world geotechnical challenges.
Bingham Canyon Mine Support
Highwall stabilization in one of the world's largest open-pit mines to ensure safe ongoing extraction.
I-70 Corridor Stabilization
Installed 50,000 sq ft of high-tensile mesh and performed extensive scaling after a major weather event.
Lava Hot Springs Slope Stabilization
Multi-phase slope stabilization project protecting the historic hot springs resort and Highway 30 from an active landslide.
Wire Rope Netting FAQ
Client Testimonials
Trusted by DOTs, engineering firms, and property owners nationwide.
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Ready to discuss your project? Our team is standing by to assess your site conditions and develop a custom solution using Wire Rope Netting and other proven techniques.
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Licensed in CO, UT, WY, ID, MT, CA, WA, OR, TN, VA
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Related Techniques
Explore other engineering methods we use to deliver comprehensive geotechnical solutions.
Mid-Slope Attenuators
Mid-slope attenuators are hybrid rockfall protection systems positioned partway down a slope to intercept falling rocks before they gain full momentum, reducing energy and enabling more efficient catchment at the base.
Pinned Mesh Systems
Pinned mesh systems combine steel mesh with rock bolts or dowels to create a secure, reinforced slope surface. This containment system prevents loose blocks from detaching and provides long-term stability in both civil and mining applications.
Rock Bolting
Rock bolting stabilizes fractured, jointed, or unstable rock masses by anchoring steel bars deep into competent rock. By tying loose blocks back to stable substrate, rock bolts improve the overall strength and cohesion of slopes, cuts, tunnels, and vertical faces.
Rockfall Barriers & Fences
Engineered catch systems that intercept falling rock or debris before it reaches roadways, railways, or infrastructure. These high-energy systems absorb and dissipate impact energy safely through deformable components.