ABSEILING EQUIPMENT

1. Kernmantle ropes – there are two types of kern-mantle design rope:

i. Dynamic rope

- designed to absorb the sudden shock of a

falling climber and will stretch approximately

7% (max 12%) over the total length of an

11mm rope

ii.static rope

- will stretch less then 2% (max 5% dependent

upon brand) of the total length.

uKernmantle rope consists a core(kern) of many small cords held together by a sheath (mantle). Kern – the inner part of the rope which is made from continuous nylon filaments may be twisted for dynamic rope or lightly twisted / braided for static rope.

Mantle – the outer part of the rope which is braided cover which protects the kern from abrasion and provides the feel of the rope.

uIt is this structure that makes kernmantle so

strong, yet extremely flexible, easy to handle,

and able to hold a knot well.

uThe UIAA (Union Internationale des Associations d’Alphinisme) – an international organization that sets minimum standards that commercially available ropes should meet.