When forming a splice, what structural element is commonly used to provide reinforcement?

The structural element commonly used to provide reinforcement when forming a splice is a thimble. A thimble is a small, typically rounded piece of metal or plastic that is used to maintain the shape of a loop in a rope or cable. By placing a thimble within the loop of the splice, the thimble helps to prevent the rope from kinking or crushing under load, which can lead to deterioration or failure of the rope. It not only enhances the structural integrity of the splice but also helps to distribute the load evenly across the rope fibers, thereby extending the life and effectiveness of the splice.

In contrast, while rope clamps, knots, and hooks are used in various rigging and splicing techniques, they do not provide the same level of structural reinforcement or protection for the loop as a thimble does. Rope clamps are more about securing two ends of a rope, knots can compromise the integrity of the rope under extreme loads, and hooks serve a different function altogether by connecting various rigging components.