Descender

A descender is a mechanical device used to brake a passing rope. It is used for abseiling , climbing and height rescue .

Simple rope brake

Climb

For rappelling, climbers use devices that are also suitable for belaying. These safety devices are standardized in accordance with DIN EN 15151. In sport climbing , equipment that is able to abseil on double ropes is used almost exclusively, such as tubes or figure eight . A single carabiner can also function as a descender using a half-mast .

In other forms of climbing, where rappelling on a single rope is common, belay devices such as grigri or single tubes can also be used. Simple rope brakes are also used in disciplines where climbing protection is not required .

Height rescue

Devices permitted for rescue must meet the requirements of DIN EN 341. The standard divides the descenders into classes A to D depending on the maximum load. Class A devices are tested with a work of 7.5 megajoules. This corresponds to 75 abseiling processes with a mass of 100 kg from a height of 100 m. To do this, the device must be operated at full load for 14 hours.

Individual evidence

1. ↑ DIN EN 341: 2011-09 Personal fall protection equipment - descenders for rescue. Retrieved December 1, 2015 .