There are several considerations for choosing the right rope for your application. Listed below are a few items to consider before choosing.
Construction
Control
Size |
Decent Control Device
Weight
Control |
Construction
The preferred rope construction for Rope Descent Systems are Kernmantle Constructions. Kernmantle constructions are used in Rope Descent Systems because they are a balance construction and won’t rotate. Kernmantle ropes consist of a cover that is braided around twisted core yarns. There are two different kinds of kernmantle rope, static and dynamic. Dynamic ropes have very long elongation characteristics, and should not be used in Rope Descent Systems. Static ropes have low elongations and offer superior control and safety for work placement systems.
There are three different kernmantle constructions:
KMIII - 32 Carrier Kernmantle
KMIII static rope is a balanced construction consisting of a continuous filament polyester cover braided over a unidirectional nylon core. KMIII is a perfect construction for rappelling and work placement. With its balanced construction and lower profile construction KMIII will perform consistently better in most approved decent devices. KMIII is a widely used rope for working lines.
KMIII MAX - 32 Carrier Kernmantle 1 over 1 Pattern
KMIII MAX is a the same construction as the KMIII, but has the added feature of a TPT Cover. This cover reduces drag and has more abrasion resistance than KMIII. This cover has a lower profile, and will make for a smoother system thru most decent control devices.
Braided Safety Blue - 16 Carrier Kernmantle
The first is a 16 strand w/ safety blue core. This 16-strand rope has a cover consisting of tightly-plied polyester and polypropylene surrounding blue core yarns. These blue yarns act as an indicator should the rope become severely abraded or cut. The rope is coated in a special coating that enhances the ropes abrasion resistance and extends its life. By the nature of the construction these ropes have an excellent track record as a superior life line.
Rope Inspection:
Rope inspection is the single most important aspect of Rope Descent Systems. For comprehensive information on using Rope Decsent Systems please read the current ANSI standard for window cleaning |
IWCA I-14.1-2001 which is available for purchase, see page 16.
Most items in rope inspection are identifying potential reductions in tensile strength of ropes. The below items can significantly reduce the tensile strengths of ropes.
Damage to look for:
- Braids are cut
- Worn fibers
- Hardness or stiffnes
- Dirt or grit clogged in the fibers
- Rust, tar, or grease is present
- Line size has been reduced
- Subjected to shock load
- Exposed to chemicals that affect their strength
- Exposed to excessive UV degradation
- Subjected to Rapid Descent
If any of these items are found on your rope you should retire it or have it inspected by a certified professional.
The inspection process:
You should run your hand along the entire length of the rope with careful attention to the following indicators:
- Inspect the entire length of rope regardless of use
- If sheath is cut through retire the rope
- If rope diameter is localized larger or smaller than rope, retire the rope
- If rope feels mushy in spots retire the rope
- If rope feels brittle in spots retire the rope
- Ropes with unknown history should not be used as a safety or working rope
- According to ANSI I-14.1 2001 working lines should be used for only 2 years, and should be retired after 3 years (after the date of manufacture.)
| The Do's and Don'ts of Rope |
DO
Inspect ropes before each use
Store in cool, dry place
Keep a rope log
Reverse rope ends regularly
Clean rope |
DON'T
Share ropes
Clean w/bleach
Step on rope
Leave on ground
Drag on ground
Store in sunlight |
Safety: The life of a climbing rope depends greatly on its use,
damage and on care, cleaning, and storage.
Storage: Climbing rope should be stored, preferably after drying, at room temperature, ideally in a storage bag.
Cleaning: Climbing ropes should be washed occasionally by hand in cold water with a mild soap, rinsed free of the soap, and then spread out or hung up to dry in the air. Avoid direct sunlight, do not use a
dryer, and do not place the rope above a heat source.
 Up close and personal. A macro shot of dirt; these sharp miniature rocks can actually cut and damage rope. Keep your rope out of the dirt. |
