Cord
Accessory cord is a static - d. H. Low-stretch rope with a small diameter (4-8 mm). The name comes from Reep , which refers to a rope or a hawser in seafaring. As a component of personal protective equipment , it is subject to the EU standard EN 564. Cords with a smaller diameter are not subject to any standard.
properties
Accessory cords essentially consist of modern, high-strength fibers such as polyamide 6.6, aramid or ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene . Polyamide is usually used for the jacket. The breaking force is prescribed by the EU standard EN 564. It is in kN : 1/5 × (diameter in mm) ². Cords with a diameter of 4 mm must therefore have a minimum breaking force of 3.2 kN. Knots reduce this strength by 20 to 50 percent (depending on the knot used).
application
Accessory cords are used in climbing to build a stand , as a Prusik loop for ascent, for self-protection when abseiling , as a step loop when recovering from crevasses , in sandstone climbing areas as a knot loop for intermediate securing , with pulleys for fastening the pulleys .
Accessory cords are often knotted to form a round sling, for example as an aid for climbing up the rope during crevasse rescue ( Prusik sling ). Be connected to it, depending on the type of load and the material used with a triple T-cross-lay , a double stitch Spier , a blind stitch or a packet node .
Application error
Like any other static rope, accessory cords are unsuitable as fall protection . An impact force must be absorbed dynamically, otherwise the jolt can cause very serious injuries.
Under no circumstances should a rope run through an accessory cord be lowered , as the frictional heat that occurs leads to melt burns after just one meter .