The main purpose of a wire-rope fluid lubricant is to reduce internal friction so that the rope runs smoothly and to coat the wires so that corrosion is inhibited. To be most effective, the lubricant should maintain these characteristics for the full range of operating temperatures. Ideally, the lubricant should penetrate the rope core easily and adhere strongly to the wire surfaces. Light lanolin oil lubricants are thinner, clearer, and penetrate the interior of a wire rope more easily, and are less prone to solidify than heavy lubricants. Lubricating a wire rope while in service helps to prevent corrosion of the wires. Corrosion can be internal and external, and it often is caused by acids, alkaline waters, salt air, humidity, fumes, and abrasive and industrial environments in general.A coating of lubricant helps to seal the wire surfaces from the atmosphere, reducing corrosion.