Climbing rope
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A climbing rope is a rope that is used in climbing. It is a critical part of an extensive chain of protective equipment (which also includes climbing harnesses, anchors, belay devices, and carabiners) used by climbers to help prevent potentially fatal fall-related accidents.
Climbing ropes must meet very strict requirements so that they do not break in the event of an accidental fall. However, they also need to be light, flexible for knotting, and resistant to chafing over sharp and rough rocks; all that in all possible weather conditions. Although ropes made of natural fibres such as
Climbing ropes can be classified into three categories according to their elasticity: static, semi-static, and dynamic ropes.
Static rope
Static ropes are ropes that are specifically designed for little or no stretch. As a result, they are unable to absorb large shocks. They should therefore not be used to protect a climber against a fall. On the other hand, they are particularly strong and can withstand a large load under static load. They find their application in fixed ropes, zip lines and shuttles.
Semi-static rope
Semi-static ropes have limited stretch. They can absorb small shocks and are also statically loaded yet very strong. However, these ropes may not be used to protect climbers from falling. They are used as fixed ropes, for rescue operations, and in caving.
Dynamic rope
Dynamic ropes are used in sport climbing. They are sufficiently stretchable to safely absorb a fall. However, they are relatively weak in static loads and therefore should not be used for zip lines and amusement rides.
A falling climber quickly develops enormous
Dynamic ropes can be single ropes, half ropes, and twin ropes, each with different specifications.[4]
Dry rope
Dry ropes are ropes that have been treated to repel water. To achieve a UIAA Water Repellent grade, a rope must not absorb more than 5% of the rope's weight.[5] This is in contrast to non-treated ropes which can absorb up to 50% of rope's weight in water.[6]
The dry treatment prevents dirt and other particulates from getting into the rope, extending the rope life. However, the dry treatment will wear off with extended use.[2] Dry ropes are more expensive than non-treated ropes, so they are typically saved for ice climbing or wet weather.
Maintenance
Ropes must be inspected regularly, and retired from use if significantly damaged or worn.[7]
References
- ^ Mears, R. P. "THE CLIMBING ROPE DEFINED" (PDF). alpinejournal.org.uk. Archived (PDF) from the original on 2019-08-06. Retrieved 2021-10-21.
- ^ a b "Rope markings explained". www.thebmc.co.uk. Retrieved 2021-10-21.
- ^ "How to Choose Climbing Ropes". www.rei.com. Retrieved 2021-10-21.
- ^ "Summary of EN 892" (PDF). edelrid.de. Archived (PDF) from the original on 2021-09-15. Retrieved 2021-10-21.
- ^ "UIAA 101 Dynamic Ropes" (PDF). theuiaa.org. Retrieved 2021-12-09.
- ^ "Climbing Technology". www.singingrock.com. Retrieved 2021-12-09.
- ^ "UIAA STANDARD 101 / ROPES : Recommendations for Inspection and Retirement" (PDF). theuiaa.org. Archived (PDF) from the original on 2020-11-11. Retrieved 2021-10-21.
External links
- Summary of EN 892, at edelrid.de
- Summary of EN 1891, at edelrid.de
- The Crucial Role of Safety & Rescue Ropes in Building Rescue, at xmonstersafety.com