ROPES

Kernmantel ropes

In 1953 EDELRID invented the kernmantel rope and consequently revolutionized modern rope manufacturing. There are two parts to the kernmantel construction: a core (Kern) and a protective sheath (Mantel). The main advantage of kernmantel ropes is their capacity to absorb energy. They absorb energy by stretching in the event of a fall. Different designs, constructions and finishing treatments can be used to give kernmantel ropes specific dynamic or static characteristics. There are two main types of kernmantel ropes:

• Dynamic ropes (EN 892): high energy absorption and low impact force

• Low stretch kernmantel ropes (EN 1891): high strength and low elongation

Static ropes are low stretch kernmantel ropes. Sometimes they are also referred to as ‘semi-static ropes’. Contrary to what their name might suggest, static ropes do have dynamic characteristics, although much less than those of a dynamic rope. Static ropes have a working elongation of under 5% (sport climbing ropes have between 7% and 10%). This means that static ropes are perfectly capable of absorbing a fall; however, we do not recommend this

STATIC ROPES

as the fall arrest would be more abrupt than with a dynamic rope and could result in unpleasant consequences for the user. This is why low stretch ropes are used primarily for work positioning and positioning systems for rope access work, where no dynamic loads are expected.

Furthermore, there are also static ropes which that are completely static. These are generally made of Kevlar, Dyneema® or steel. They have minimal stretch and possess no dynamic energy absorption. For this reason, they may only be used as Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) if used with additional energy absorbing systems. This type of rope is used lifting heavy loads, for hauling, rope constructions and pulley systems, where minimal stretch is an advantage.

Static ropes (Low stretch kernmantel ropes)

Low stretch kernmantel ropes are tested in accordance with the requirements of EN 1891. This standard defines two types of rope: Type A and Type B.

Type A are static ropes designed for industrial use for persons in rope access including all kinds of work positioning and restraint. This also includes rescue work and speleology (caving).

Type B ropes are static ropes with a lower technical specification than Type A ropes (they have a thinner diameter, lower breaking strength and are lighter). As such, they require greater care and precaution during use. They are primarily used in rescue procedures with descent and rescue devices (e.g. EN 341).

Acessorie Cords

We make slings that have a kernmantel construction with diameters from four to eight millimetres. They are used as accessory cord for hauling lighter loads, building anchor points, or as prusik slings. The minimum breaking strength for each diameter is defined in EN standard 564.

Special types of static rope

There are also certain types of static rope that have special designs and constructions. Let’s have a quick look at a few of them.

Canyoning ropes:

Canyoning ropes can be Type A or Type B static ropes. They are made of dif ferent materials. Some are made with a polyamide sheath for greater abrasion resistance and a polypropylene core which makes them lightweight and able to float. Others are made with a polyamide sheath and polyamide core. Full polyamide ropes are heavier and don’t float as well, but they can withstand greater static force than ropes with a polypropylene core. Canyoning ropes often come in Iuminous colours so they can be seen in water.

Arborist ropes:

Arborist (tree climbing) ropes have a special construction which is different to other static ropes. They have to provide extra abrasion resistance, low working elongation and good handling. Arborist ropes have a comparatively large diameter and greater sheath proportion. The special textured sheath structure makes them easier to ascend and their bright colours make them easier to see. To ensure that arborist ropes are easy to splice, they generally have a woven core.