ContractArb

So it works fine with a wirecore flipline then? I'm currently using a New England steelcore with a Wild Country Ropeman.

I've just bought some Ocean Polyester e2e 8mm. Thought it a bit thin at 1st, but works well with a swabian/hitchclimber on Yale XTC

I went to the Rigging Research Workshop in Beddgelert (it was postponed until June 29). It was well attended with morning lectures and a demonstration by the Treevolution boys after a very good buffet lunch! After Liam McKeown (of Treevolution)s introduction, Andy Detter (Brudi & Partner TreeConsult, Munich) gave a very informative and in-depth presentation on 'Kinematics of snatching logs & forces generated; assessing anchorpoint strength; determining safety margins of rigging operations; tree dynamics in dismantling & effect on arborist safety.' Then Fred Hall (DMM Wales) introduced us to his latest equipment lines. In a nutshell - apologies in advance to Messrs Detter et al - I see the most relevant point of the lecture regards the shocking of the lowering line during a 'butt-roping' operation. After all the maths, as I understand it, the maximum force excerted on the rigging point is in a direction between 32 & 42' from vertical. This force (in Newtons) will be in the general region of 10x (TEN TIMES) the weight of the cut log (in Kilos). This is ignoring the many factors affecting the operation, drop distance of log being the most obvious. I found the techniques for estimating log weights the most helpful part of the program (section 6.2.1: Log Weight Curves & tables 6.1 & 6.2 in the HSE Rigging/Dismantling doc RR668) All experienced climbers will have an idea of the forces/dirctions involved in butt-roping, but it was great to see that people are actually doing the science. Note: This is JUST My attempt at a brief synopsis of the rigging workshop I attended. Please read the HSE RR668 document for yourselves, don't believe a word I've just written until you've read it! Impressions, questions, opinions, ridicule, grief? Let me 'ave it.....

Hey cuz! Thanks for the welcome guys! (I showed that hairy clown the ropes some years back!)

Hi guys, just thought I'd post a couple of my favourite pictures (of me) by way of saying hello. I've been browsing the forum for a while and I'm impressed. I've been climbing since 1994, but technically I'm no more advanced than footlocking and a Blakes. I just bought a Lockjack from Gustharts (arrived in under 36 hours, excellent service) so I'll look forward to posting some more here if I make it through next week!