Page 49 - Rappelling

can be wrenched closed and are used in rigging “rapid link” in French), and the stainless version
chain to bolt hangers, connecting rappel rings to is marked INOX (a synonym for stainless steel in
bolt hangers, and as rappel rings themselves. The French). Beware of cheap hardware store quick links
steel variety are much stronger and more durable of unknown metallurgy and quality control, typically
than the aluminum ones. Both Omega Pacific and made in China or Malaysia. If you do buy hardware
Petzl make CE-certified quick links made specifi- store quick links, look for some type of strength rat-
cally for climbing and rigging applications. The Petzl ing, which should be stamped on the link itself and
design is known as a maillon rapide (which means listed on any packaging. Look for an SWL or WLL

FIXE welded stainless rings are very strong This sling was damaged by a rappel rope
(50 kN, or 11,240 lbs.) and relatively heavy (3.2 being retrieved. The friction of the rope being
ounces, or 90 grams) but durable and resistant pulled across the sling generated heat, partially
to corrosion, making them a good choice for melting and damaging the sling’s fibers. A sling
semipermanent rappel anchor fixtures that will in this damaged condition has lost a majority of
see high use, with many rappel ropes being its strength and should be retired.
pulled through them. A standard setup (shown
here) is to connect them with a quick link to a
bolt hanger.

38 RAPPELLING

Rappelling_i-174_3pp_CS55le.indd 38 7/24/13 10:15 AM