Tensile strength vs. work load limits/Rope

[slavis]

A few weeks ago I posted a question concerning rope strengths. I received many good responses and thank you all. Now after looking into the information more it seems all rope made for boating is quoted in tensile strength. However, when I look at rope in the industrial sector(same material and construction) it is quoted in work load limits. I would not question it but comparing rope between each other the strength differences are not similiar. Example: 1/2" nylon twisted vs. 3/8 double braid tensile strength is 7500 vs. 4800. Work load limit is 525 vs. 950. Tensile strength says the 1/2'' is stronger Work load limit says the 3/8 is stronger? What am I missing?

[goinsfishin]

Tensile strength is the minimum failure load the rope was tested at.
Work load is the maximum load that can be repeatedly put on the rope and have it maintain integrity.
In this case the 1/2 nylon twisted has a higher "snapping' point, but the 3/8 double braid can take a heavier load repeatedly without structural damage.