History of Climbing Rope Materials and Construction

Climbing ropes are probably the most well-known and important piece of equipment used by rock climbers and mountaineers. As a means of physically linking teams of climbers together, ropes are also a symbol of the emotional connection between climbers - the bonds of camaraderie and trust that are formed in the high and steep places of the world. 

Many different domestic and international manufacturers offer a staggering number of ropes and cords for the modern climber. Nylon climbing ropes have an excellent safety record; in fact, no modern rope of 9 mm diameter or larger has ever failed from a simple climbing fall.

Rope-laying construction

Hundreds of years ago, people used climbing ropes that were simple structures made from plant or animal fibers, such as hemp. Usually handmade, these ropes were constructed by laying or twisting ropes.
In the first step of laying a rope structure, the fibers are gathered and spun into a yarn. The direction in which the fibers are twisted is called the twist pitch; the letters S and Z stand for left-handed and right-handed, respectively.
Next, the yarn is twisted into strands, which are further twisted into ropes. The twist of the yarn is opposite to the twist of the strand, and the twist of the strand is further opposite to the twist of the rope. Traditionally, ropes made with three strands in this manner are called anchor lay ropes.
A laid or twisted rope has many disadvantages. The shock loads generated during a fall can easily injure the unfortunate leader or cause the anchor/rope to fail.

Nylon rope construction

In 1935, DuPont Chemical invented nylon, which led to a huge improvement in climbing rope technology. Nylon is a strong, resilient material that, over time, improves the safety of lead drops by dissipating the force of falling climbers.
Nylon rope solves the strength and elasticity problems of laying ropes; the remaining problems have to do with durability and handling (twisting).

Check the climbing rope

Most modern rope failures are caused by rope wear on sharp edges, or by careless rope storage. 
Make sure you inspect your rope before use; retire it if you find damage to the sheath that extends to the core, or if you find a damaged core section. A damaged core is usually indicated by a "flat" point in the rope that has little or no resistance to bending. Ropes and other soft goods are usually retired after five years of use.

Careful storage and use

Prolonged exposure to UV radiation or harmful chemicals can degrade and weaken the nylon fibers that make up the rope. Store ropes in a cool, dry and dark place, such as a closet or rope bag. Avoid setting ropes on sidewalks or asphalt, where fluids from vehicle spills can accumulate. Wash ropes regularly with warm water and mild soap; do not use strong cleaners or detergents.

Anchor line nylon twisted

OVERVIEW

Ropes are an essential climbing tool and an immediately recognizable symbol of the climbing fraternity. A great deal of research and development has taken climbing rope technology from its humble beginnings in the golden age of climbing to its advanced state today. When properly cared for, your climbing rope will provide you with years of climbing experience. 

Please contact BARON if you need to buy the ropes, we offer great quality!