Ropes

Polyamide or polyester ropes of a kernmantel construction are normally considered suitable for rope access applications — constructed with a load-bearing core (kern) and an outer protective sheath (mantel) that provides resistance to both wear and the ingress of dirt and grit.

Low-stretch ropes (EN 1891 A)

Low-stretch ropes conforming to EN 1891 A (with a min. 10 mm Ø) should be used for general rigging. Testing requires:

• Minimum Breaking Load (MBL): 2200 kg.
• Maximum elongation does not exceed 5% (measured between a 50 kg pre-load and a 150 kg load).

Type A low-stretch ropes are also subjected to a series of Fall Factor 1 tests with a 100 kg load, generally breaking after in excess of 10 FF1 falls.

Static ropes — a note

There are currently discussions amongst European Standards Committees about introducing a Static Rope (no stretch) for use in certain situations where the stretch in a standard Low Stretch rope (e.g. on a tall structure) could allow a considerable fall should the main working rope fail. A suitable shock-absorbing element would need to be included.

Dynamic ropes (EN 892)

Dynamic ropes conforming to EN 892 (UIAA 1) Full Rope, with a min. 11 mm Ø, will stretch up to 8% when an 80 kg load is applied, depending on the manufacturer. In a shock-loading situation they can stretch in excess of 50%.

Instead of FF1, dynamic rope is subjected to FF1.78 falls. They generally break after being subjected to in excess of 12 FF1.78 falls.

When choosing the type of rope for a particular application, the need for energy absorption should be balanced against the need to avoid excessive elongation or retraction of the rope.