Which material are guy wires typically made of?

Guy wires are typically made of steel because of its strength, durability, and resistance to stretching. Steel has high tensile strength, which allows it to support significant weight and withstand environmental forces, such as wind that can affect structures such as utility poles. The composition of steel also makes it resistant to corrosion, especially when treated or galvanized, extending its lifespan in outdoor environments.

While aluminum is lightweight and has some resistance to corrosion, it does not possess the same tensile strength as steel, making it less suitable for applications requiring tight and stable support. Plastic, although lightweight, lacks the structural integrity required for guy wires, making it ineffective for supporting tensions. Copper is a good conductor of electricity but is also too soft and ductile to be practical for guy wires, which need to maintain tension and resist bending under load. Thus, steel is the preferred material due to its overall performance characteristics in supporting structural integrity and safety.