The core wire rope is filled with oil-soaked fibers inside, and the core itself is an independent metal core. In the same specification, the overall metal cross-sectional area of the steel core is larger, and the breaking tension is higher. Its resistance to compression deformation and high-temperature performance is much better than that of the hemp core. It is suitable for large-tonnage heavy-load, multi-layer drum winding, and working environments with high-temperature heat sources. The hemp core is soft in texture and has good buffering and shock absorption effects, which can be paired with smaller-diameter pulley drums, and is suitable for light to medium-sized lifting scenarios that require repeated bending. 

The core fibers of the rope have a structure capable of storing a large amount of lubricating oil. When the steel wire rope rotates and bends, the oil automatically penetrates the gaps between the steel wires, providing long-term internal lubrication. The frequency of daily oil replenishment is reduced. However, the disadvantage is that the fibers are prone to absorbing water and getting damp, which can cause them to rot and deteriorate in a humid corrosive environment. The steel core does not have an oil storage structure and can only be maintained by external oil application. The internal lubrication conditions are generally poor, but the overall structure is sturdy and wear-resistant, and its service life is longer than that of the core fibers under high-strength working conditions. 

The costs and application scenarios are clearly differentiated. The steel core type requires more materials and has a greater self-weight, resulting in a higher purchase price. It is commonly used in high-stress conditions such as tower cranes, mine elevators, and heavy-duty port loading and unloading. The hemp core type is lightweight and has a lower price, and is often used in light-load operations such as elevator traction, manual hoists, small lifting equipment, and simple mooring and binding for ships.