Arborist Rope

www.samsonrope.com

Revised 07/2004

For well over 100 years, Samson has been the leader indeveloping and manufacturing braided ropes. Duringthe 1800’s, Samson perfected the unique concept ofincorporating reinforcement cores within braids tosignificantly enhance product performance. In 1957,the engineers at Samson took this innovation anotherstep forward and developed the modern syntheticdouble braid. By combining newly developed fibers intheir patented construction, ropes could be engineeredwith those characteristics critical to the applications forwhich they were designed. Performance factors, such asstrength, elongation, flexibility, and abrasion resistance,could now be engineered into the rope.

With this heritage, it’s easy to see why Samson ropes excel inworkplaces as tough as those encountered by the professionalarborist. Samson’s line of tree ropes are specifically engineeredto maximize performance where ropes are expected to runagainst bark and through crotches, support and controldescending loads while providing a reasonable working life andmargin of security for climbers working in the tree.

The most complete line of products in the industry...Samson’sline of Arborist ropes includes both climbing and rigging ropes,12 and 16 strand braided constructions, double braided, andthree strand twisted ropes. Each construction and combinationof fibers offers its own mix of performance characteristics.Strength, elongation, abrasion resistance, and snag resistanceare all factors to consider in choosing the appropriate line fora given task.

This catalog has been designed as a complete reference onSamson Arborist products. In it you will find specifications foreach product, which allows comparison between products toensure that the product chosen will function in its role in theworkplace. In addition, we have included reference materials onusage and inspection techniques for ropes in general.

In order to promote safety on the job site, and ensure that ourproducts are used most effectively, Samson has teamed up withthe arborist community to promote and provide currentinformation on effective and safe climbing techniques.Please refer to our special sections on Climbing Knots; Knotsand Rigging; Slings; Standards for Strength and Usage andRope Inspection and Retirement. While not intended to bea comprehensive guide to this demanding aspect of thearborist’s profession, it will introduce a few basic concepts,and hopefully encourage the search for more informationon this critical aspect of the arborist’s occupation.

Samson Professional ofessional Arborist ProductsSamson Pr Arborist Professional Arborist Products2

Table

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Climbing Lines .................................... 4

Rigging Lines ...................................... 5

ArborMaster ........................................ 6

True Blue ............................................ 7

Arbor-Plex 1/2” ................................. 8

Tree-Master ........................................ 9

Zing-It .............................................. 10

Climbing Accessories –AmSteel, Ultratech,Accessory Cord ................................. 11

Climbing Knots .......................... 12-13

Knots & Rigging .............................. 14

Slings – Whoopie Sling,TreeRig Sling .................................... 15

Stable Braid ..................................... 16

Tenex ................................................ 17

ArborPlex 5/8” & 3/4” .................... 18

ProMaster ......................................... 19

Static ................................................ 20

Samthane & Fiber ........................... 21

Technical Info ............................ 22-23

Standard for Strength .................... 23

Rope Inspection ......................... 24-26

Rope Handling ................................. 27

Products to meet the demanding requirementsof the professional arborist

T A B L E O F C O N T E N T S 3

Our commitment to the arborist industryis evident on two levels. First, bysupplying a wide variety of high qualityproducts that can be trusted to provideconsistent performance. Your perfor-mance, as well as your safety, depends onthe choices you make in selecting thetools you work with. At Samson, ourgoal is to make our products your firstchoice for quality and economy. Alongwith our distributors and dealers, we arecommitted to providing informationwhich helps you use our products in asafe and effective manner. This catalogcontains critical safety and usageinformation.

Second, our commitment is directedtoward the professional advancementof the industry.

Our support of effective training programslike those sponsored by the NAA and ISA,ArborMaster Training, Inc. and others iscritical to informing and educating arboristseverywhere. Our particpation at tradeexhibitions as well as “hands on” seminarshelps us better understand your needs andpreferences. This process of feedback andinvolvement helps everyone and improvesour value to the industry as well as yours.

Samson has been in the cordage industrysince 1884. During our many years ofoperation, we have responded to manyrequests for specialized products for newor unusual applications that requirestrength members built to specifiedcharacteristics such as strength, stretch,hand/knotting features or weight. Projectshave ranged from developing a spacecapsule retrieval line, deep water lift linesto retrieve a Russian submarine, powercompany winch and pulling lines, andArborist climbing lines.

In the early 1970’s we were asked todevelop a synthetic line to replace manilaclimbing lines. The project was acceptedand we worked with universities,distributors and arborists. After fourteenmonths and seven design evaluations,Arbor-Plex was created and released asthe first significant braided rope as aclimbing line for the Arborist Industry.

As with all industrial applications,specialized needs and preferences aregenerated to meet these requirements,and a constant product developmentprogram is always underway at Samson.To meet the demand for a higherstrength, lower stretch climbingline that would allow good visualrecognition, True-Blue was developed.Traditional preferences continued fora 3-strand with low stretch, higherstrength and better service life thanmanila. To service these requirementsTree-Master was created. Today, thecontinuing growth of the “Footlock”climbing technique has required thedevelopment of a braided ropeconstruction that would have maximumflexibility while maintaining a firmround shape during operation; plus,be a high visibility rope and fullyidentifiable from all rigging lines.

Our latest innovation comes fromworking closely with ArborMaster®Training to create the ultimate climbingline: ArborMaster®. Several years ofresearch and development went intocreating this product to meet thedemanding requirements of today’sprofessional climbers.

Samson is committed to constantlymeeting the challenges of the ArboristIndustry and assuring the highestconsistent quality climbing linesavailable. We are ISO 9001 certifiedand our climbing lines meet or exceedANSI Standard Z133.11-2000.

It is our commitment to productdevelopment, compliance to industrystandards and constant innovationthat keeps us ahead of our competition.

Samson Climbing Lines

ArborMaster 8,100 lbs. 810 lbs. 7.7 lbs .60% 1.10% 2.20%True-Blue 7,300 lbs. 730 lbs. 8.5 lbs 1.02% 1.65% 2.24%Arbor-Plex 6,000 lbs. 600 lbs. 6.8 lbs 1.01% 1.75% 2.72%Tree-Master 7,000 lbs. 700 lbs. 8.0 lbs 0.82% 1.89% 3.08%

PRODUCT WORKINGLOAD

AVERAGE STRENGTH & WORKING LOADAVERAGESTRENGTH

WEIGHT PER100 FEET

ELASTIC ELONGATION*200 LB.LOAD

400 LB.LOAD

800 LB.LOAD

ArborMaster®

premium 16-strand braided polyesterconstruction. With a uniquely stabilizednylon core.

Tree-Master™

3-strand, 4-stage twistedconstruction of 100% polyester fiber.

Arbor-Plex™

12-strand braided constructionof plied polyester and polyolefin fibers.

*Based on rope stablized from 200D2

Strengths and working loads are for new, unused 1/2-inch ropes with no splices or knots.

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True-Blue™

12-strand braided 100% polyesterconstruction. Each strand consists ofblue fiber plied over white fiber to assistdetection of cover wear.

Important Note AboutClimbing Lines forLowering Operations:Climbing lines should not be used aslowering lines, come-along ropes or bullropes. These constructions are designed formaximum flexibility and excellent handlingqualities when used in climbing applica-tions. These design characteristics are notnecessarily suitable with loweringoperations. This is especially importantif the rope has already been retired fromclimbing service. Other types of ropesspecifically designed for lowering andcome-along operations should be usedfor these types of applications.

STABLE BRAID™

2-in-1® double braid constructionconsisting of a braided polyestercover over a braided polyester core.

ARBOR-PLEX™

12-strand braided construction ofplied polyester and polyolefin fibers.

PRO-MASTER™

3-strand, twisted construction of spunand filament polyester jacket fiberscovering polyolefin core fibers.

Samson Rigging Lines

Based on ropestablized from 200D2Stable Braid 1.1% 1.7% 2.7%

Tenex 1.4% 2.3% 3.0%Arbor-Plex 1.7% 2.9% 3.6%Pro-Master 2.0% 3.2% 3.9%Static 3.2% 4.5% 6.0%

PRODUCT10%

ELASTIC ELONGATION AT A% OF AVERAGE STRENGTH

PRODUCT 20% 30%

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STATIC™

Kernmantle construction with Polyestercover and heat stabilized nylon core bundles.

TENEX™

Twelve-Strand construction of high tenacitypolyester with Samthane coating.

Rigging is the use of ropes and otherequipment to take down trees or removelimbs when free-falling is not advisable.Rigging is the most advanced aspect oftree work. Even for veteran arborists,it is best to practice new techniques inopen areas where the risk of accidentscan be controlled and personal safety canbe ensured.

The techniques and tools will vary witheach job site and an experienced workerwill take advantage of the many new blocksand lowering devices to safely andefficiently lower tree sections. Advances inrope construction, as well as new andbetter synthetic fibers, are making the jobof rigging easier and safer and theimportance of using reliable rigging ropescannot be overstated. Samson offersseveral types of rigging lines designedspecifically for the Arborist industry.Samson’s rigging ropes offer the bestcombination of strength, wear resistanceand elongation while taking some of themystery out of choosing the right rope.

Stable Braid™

Our strongest rigging rope, it is also themost widely used as a lifting line orwinchline in many industries where higherstrength and durability along with easyhandling are needed in a relatively smalldiameter. It is available in sizes from1/2’’ to 7/8’’, with other sizes available byspecial order. Introduced to the arboristindustry in 1993 as a rigging line, this100% polyester braided rope construction,

Arbor-Plex and Static strengths and working loads are for new, unused ropes with no splices or knots.Stable Braid, Pro-Master and Tenex strengths and working loads are for new, unused ropes with splices and no knots.

AVERAGE STRENGTH & WORKING LOAD

Pro-Master™

A firm three-strand rope constructionoffering reliability as well as economy. Itholds its shape even under heavy use and thespun fiber on the surface offers excellent gripand knot holding. Identified by a green ID.For price and performance there isn’t a betterthree-strand rigging rope in the marketplace.

STABLE BRAID TENEX - 1 END TENEX - 2 END ARBOR-PLEX PRO-MASTER STATICSTRENGTH WORK WEIGHT STRENGTH WORK WEIGHT STRENGTH WORK WEIGHT STRENGTH WORK WEIGHT STRENGTH WORK WEIGHT STRENGTH WORK WEIGHT

SIZE BREAK LOAD Lbs per BREAK LOAD Lbs per BREAK LOAD Lbs per BREAK LOAD Lbs per BREAK LOAD Lbs per BREAK LOAD Lbs per

Dia. Lbs Lbs 100-Ft Lbs Lbs 100-Ft Lbs Lbs 100-Ft Lbs Lbs 100-Ft Lbs Lbs 100-Ft Lbs Lbs 100-Ft3/8” N/A N/A N/A 5,800 580 4.2 N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A 5,700 570 4.2

7/16” N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A 8,200 820 6.01/2” 10,400 1,040 8.2 11,800 1,180 8.5 13,100 1,310 9.4 N/A N/A N/A 6,300 630 6.5 11,000 1,100 8.0

9/16” 13,300 1,330 11.0 N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A5/8” 16,300 1,630 14.0 17,100 1,710 13.1 18,800 1,880 13.8 9,000 900 12.0 8,500 850 9.6 13,500 1,350 11.23/4” 20,400 2,040 18.0 22,400 2,240 17.2 24,800 2,480 18.5 12,000 1,200 16.2 10,900 1,090 13.9 N/A N/A N/A7/8” 29,900 2,990 27.1 32,600 3,260 25.8 N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A 15,500 1,550 18.0 N/A N/A N/A

offered with a urethane coating formaximum toughness, is spliceable usingstandard double braid procedures. It isdesigned to be used with false crotchblocks and other rigging hardware soyou can take full advantage of its strengthand durability.

Arbor-Plex™

A torque balanced rigging rope availablein 5/8’’ and 3/4’’. It is a twelve-strandtightly braided construction with excellentwear resistance, high strength and lightweight. Each strand has a core ofpolyolefin wrapped with polyester in aDuraTite construction process whichmakes it unspliceable. First offered to theindustry in the mid 1970’s as a riggingline, it is widely known and trusted as a“work horse” for virtually all rigging uses.

Tenex™

Tenex is a firm, round braided constructionoffering high strength, low stretch andoutstanding abrasion resistance. Theproprietary coating enhances the rope’sfirmness and resistance to abrasion andsnagging. These characteristics makeTenex an excellent choice for riggingline and for slings.

Static Rope™

A kernmantle rope construction that canbe used for specialty rigging requirements.Possesses excellent shock mitagation andfirm round shape under load.

The world-class champion climbers and arborprofessionals at ArborMaster® Trainingworked closely with Samson engineers todevelop the ultimate climbing line:ArborMaster®. With your life and livelihoodon the line, you can rely on ArborMasterto perform smoothly. You have the assurancethat some of the best arborists in thebusiness have designed this product withyou and your needs in mind and they relyon it themselves.

Your equipment and tools should minimizeclimber fatigue not contribute to it. This iswhy ArborMaster is built to a full1/2” diameter. Not all 16-strand climbing

FEATURES

✱ Maximum firmness for the“Footlock” climbing technique

✱ High visibilty in trees

✱ Low stretch

✱ Full size 1/2” diameter makes for an easiergrip and minimizes climber fatigue

✱ Non-rotational

✱ Excellent knot-heat reistance

✱ Available in spliced units

✱ Maintains excellent service flexibility

1/2" 4 foot polybag 4 polybags per carton N/A ✔

1/2" 120 foot polybag 4 polybags per carton ✔ ✔

1/2" 150 foot polybag 4 polybags per carton ✔ ✔

1/2" 600 foot reel 1 reel per carton ✔ N/A

DIAMETER PUT-UPARBORMASTER™

UNSPLICED SPLICED

SIZE/DIAMETER:

1/2-inch

WEIGHT PER 100 FEET:

7.7 lbs.

AVERAGE STRENGTH:

UNSPLICED SPLICED

8,100 lbs. 6,480 lbs.

WORKING LOAD:

UNSPLICED SPLICED

810 lbs. 648 lbs.

S P E C I F I C A T I O N S

ELASTIC ELONGATION:{Percentage of new rope strength

stabilized from 200D2}

.60% @ 200 lbs.

1.10% @ 400 lbs.

2.20% @ 800 lbs.

*Spliced units have 5-inch soft eye one end.

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16-strandbraided polyesterconstruction with

stabilized nylon core.

STANDARD PACKAGING

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Rope strengths are for new,unused ropes.

ArborMaster’svarious colorcombinationswork welltogether whenused in thesplit-tailclimbing system.

ArborMaster ®

lines are built this way.ArborMaster is a premium quality16-stand line offering a smooth,durable surface to optimizefootlock climbing. ArborMastercan be spliced both ends, rightout of the bag (no milking orbreak-in required). This allowsyou to alternate the workingend of the rope right from thestart, which maximizes theservice life of the rope.

Made from specially treatedpolyester with a stabilized nyloncore. ArborMaster is availablein three, high-contrast colorcombinations: blue/white,gold/white and red/black/white.

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12-strand braided 100% polyesterconstruction. Each strand consistsof blue fiber plied over white fiberto assist detection of cover wear.

FEATURES

✱ Maximum wear life

✱ 100% polyester

✱ Low stretch,high strength

✱ Non-rotational

✱ Maintains excellentflexibility

✱ Stays firm andround in use

✱ Highly visible in trees

1/2" 120 foot polybag 4 polybags per carton1/2" 150 foot polybag 4 polybags per carton1/2" 600 foot reel 1 reel per carton1/2" 2,400 foot drum Drum self-packed

DIAMETER PUT-UPTRUE–BLUE

True-Blue™

True-Blue offers the highest level ofperformance in a high strength, low stretchclimbing line with maximum wear resistanceand a highly visible blue color.

True-Blue braided climbing line is a uniquecombination of extrusion set blue polyesterfiber wrapped over a white polyester core in aSamson twelve-strand DuraTite™ braid.

SIZE/DIAMETER:

1/2-inch


8.8 lbs.

AVERAGE STRENGTH:

7,300 lbs.

WORKING LOAD:

730 lbs.



1.02% @ 200 lbs.

1.65% @ 400 lbs.

2.24% @ 800 lbs.


Strengths and working loads are fornew and unused ropes with no

splices or knots.

UNITS PER PACK

This 100% polyester braid also has each ofthe twelve strands coated with Samthane™

finish to add maximum wear life andconsistent knot control. The outer bluepolyester fibers also have Samson’s Parallay™

parallel fiber orientation to minimize fiberwear on rough surfaces and prolong ropeworking life.

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Arbor-Plex combines polyester and polyolefin

fibers in a DuraTite™ construction. This

process tightens the braid to keep the rope

round and firm for knot control and to allow

the strands to be snag resistant. The tough

polyester jacket fibers surround the

polyolefin center fibers to maximize

Arbor-Plex™

SIZE/DIAMETER:

1/2-inch


6.8 lbs.

AVERAGE STRENGTH:

6,000 lbs.

WORKING LOAD:

600 lbs.



1.01% @ 200 lbs.

1.75% @ 400 lbs.

2.72% @ 800 lbs.


Strengths and working loads are for new,unused ropes with no splices or knots.

Twelve-strand braidedconstruction of plied

polyester and polyolefin fibers.

1/2" 120 foot polybag 4 polybags per carton1/2" 150 foot polybag 4 polybags per carton1/2" 600 foot reel 1 reel per carton1/2" 2,400 foot drum Drum self-packed

DIAMETER PUT-UPARBOR-PLEX CLIMBING

UNITS PER PACK

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FEATURES

✱ Excellent wear andsnag resistance

✱ Excellent knot holdingability, non-rotational —hangs straight

✱ Works well when wet✱ Rot and mildew resistant

resistance to wear and fiber fusing while

creating a lightweight high-strength rope.

The outer polyester fibers utilize Samson’s

Parallay™ fiber orientation to prolong rope

life by minimizing the sawing action of

fibers over rough surface.

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The finest three-strand climbing rope available.

Tree-Master is a premium 4-stage climbing rope made of

premium polyester. Identified by an external green strand.

It remains firm under load and has excellent knot holding

characteristics when used with the Tautline Hitch and

Blake Hitch.

3-strand, 4-stage twistedconstruction of 100%polyester fiber.

FEATURES

✱ Maximum wear life

✱ Stays firm under load

✱ Mildew resistant

Tree-Master™

SIZE/DIAMETER:

1/2-inch


8.0 lbs.

AVERAGE STRENGTH:

7,000 lbs.

WORKING LOAD:

700 lbs.



.82% @ 200 lbs.

1.89% @ 400 lbs.

3.08% @ 800 lbs.


Strengths and working loads are fornew and unused ropes with no

splices or knots.

1/2" 120 foot polybag 4 polybags per carton1/2" 150 foot polybag 4 polybags per carton1/2" 600 foot reel 1 reel per carton1/2" 1,200 foot reel 1 reel per carton

DIAMETER PUT-UPTREE-MASTER CLIMBING

UNITS PER PACK

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The first throwing line designed specifically for the professional arborist. SamsonZing-It offers extremely high strength, exceptionally low stretch, and excellent abrasionresistance to enhance durability – all in a small diameter, lightweight throwing line.

Zing-It helps you achieve higher throws with lighter weights, greater control due to itslow stretch, and the ability to pull down ”hangers” due to its high strength. The specialcoating reduces abrasion and allows Zing-It to glide easily over the roughest bark.Use for either hand or mechanical throwing with an 8 or 10 oz. throwing weight.

FEATURES

✱ Low stretch forexcellent control

✱ High strength for pullingdown hangers

✱ Slippery, glides easilyover rough bark

✱ Excellent abrasionresistance

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ccessories

SIZE/DIAMETER:

1.75mm 2.2mm


.12 lbs. .16 lbs.

AVERAGE STRENGTH:

400 lbs. 580 lbs.


Zing–It™

After the first use of Zing-It, the throw lineshould be hand tended or faked into a smallplastic pail, canvas bag, or plastic bag forstorage. Zing-It should not be coiled sincethat will impart twist and could causeknotting during future use. If hand tendedfor storage, Zing-It will be free flowing forthe next use.

1.75mm 180 foot tube 12 hang tubes per carton1.75mm 1,000 foot tube 1 each2.2mm 180 foot tube 12 hang tubes per carton2.2mm 1,000 foot tube 1 each

DIAMETER PUT-UP UNITS PER PACKZING-IT™

USAGE TIPS FROM THE PRO’S

All sizes and put-upspackaged on cardboardtube. 180’ put-ups areplaced in hang tubes.Other put-ups areindividually shrink-wrapped.

Bulk lengths available on request.

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sAmSteel , Ultra-Techand Accessory Cord

® ™

AmSteel®

A twelve-strand ropemade from Dyneema®fiber that is Samthane™Type S coated orange.AmSteel® is very lightweight, strong for itssize and may be usedas a rigging control orpositioning line. Easyto work with and highlyvisible in trees. More infoon Samthane coatingssee pg. 27.

Ultra-Tech™

A unique, high strength double braid with an outer cover ofpolyester fiber and an inner core of Technora® fiber. Well suitedfor numerous climbing and rigging applications due to itsexcellent heat resistance. Available in four tracer colors:black, red, blue or green.

1/8” 3.0 lbs. 1,800 lbs.DIAMETER AVERAGE STRENGTH

AMSTEEL - WEIGHT & STRENGTHWEIGHT PER 600’

Average strength for new, unused rope with splices and no knots.

2mm 3mm 4mm 5mm 6mm 7mm 8mm 9mm

0.7 lbs. 1.7 lbs. 2.3 lbs. 3.7 lbs. 6.1 lbs 7.9 lbs. 10.3 lbs 13.2 lbs.

DIAMETERACCESSORY CORD WEIGHT PER 300 FT

WEIGHT/300’

230 460 760 1,175 1,700 2,350 3,025 3,700MINIMUM STRENGTH (LBS.)

BLACK

Accessory CordsSamson stregth and quality in multi-purpose accessory cords. SamsonAccessory Cords are the ”utilityplayer” in the Samson arborist line up.From throwing lines to tie-downs andpruning pole cords, Accessory Cordshave hundreds of uses on any job site.

Please note: This product is notintended or designed to be used forclimbing, rappeling or rescue rope.

Put-ups: 300 foot spools(all diameters)

Minimum strength for new, unused rope with no splices or knots.

5/16” 20.5 lbs. 7,800 lbs.DIAMETER AVERAGE STRENGTH

ULTRA-TECH- WEIGHT & STRENGTHWEIGHT PER 600’

Average strength for new, unused rope with splices and no knots.

Synthetic lines are tied to hardware orfittings with a hitch and to other lineswith a bend. While a knot, technicallyspeaking, is an alteration in one line notaffecting other objects, the word “Knot”has come to include the definitions of“hitch” and “bend” as well. No matterwhat you call it, a knot, bend or hitchworks because of the friction created bythe turns in the line. This friction alsoweakens the line, and sometimes is sogreat that the knot cannot be untied.There are several hitches and bends

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Friction Hitch

Stopper Knot

Climbing Hitch

Stopper Knot

commonly used by arborists that arespecific to climbing and others used forrigging at the job site. In climbing theTautline Hitch and Blake’s Hitch are themost popular for moving around in thetree. Since the expected loads onclimbing lines are normally less than500 pounds, these hitches cause littlestrength loss because of bending. Eventhough the loads are small, a “bail out”descent can melt through a climbingline very quickly, usually before youreach the ground.

Choosing the appropriate knot orhitch is important from not only asafety perspective but also from afunctionality point of view. Theclimbing system that an arboristchooses to work with will have muchto do with the knots that will workbest for the system selected. Thetwo basic climbing systems mostcommonly used today are thetraditional fixed tail system andthe split tail system.

Climbing Knots

Buntline HitchDue to its cinchingaction this hitch willhold fast to hardwareand minimize sideloading potential oncarabiners. This cinchingaction can also make itdifficult to untie fromconnecting links when theconnecting link cannot beremoved from the hitch.

Traditional (Fixed Tail) SystemThis system has been the most widely used climbing system in NorthAmerica for over 100 years. Traditionally it is tied using a bowline as atermination with the bridge and friction hitch being tied with the tailexiting the bowline. This system, while very simple, and requiring lesshardware can make climbing more strenuous and does not allow forefficient re-crotching. The tail also wears inevitably over time andrequires regular cutting of the end portion of climbing line reducingoverall rope length and serviceable lifespan.

Split-Tail SystemThis system has grown in popularity due to its many advantagesand versatility. This system, depending on how fully you wish toutilize its benefits, may require additional hardware. Basicallythe Split-Tail system “splits off” the bridge section or the “tail”from the traditional system. This system can reduce body painand fatigue especially in the lower back, hips and knees. Thissystem also allows you to maximize features offered in modernergonomic saddle design. The split tail system also extendsyour climbing lines serviceable work life and allows for safe,easy and efficient re-crotching.

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Terminations

Bridge

Termination

Termination

Bridge

Termination

Spliced Eye with Girth HitchThe spliced eye is the strongest and mostconvenient termination that can be used.It is recommended that the eye be longenough to ensure that the splice can begirth hitched on the connecting link fora compliant interface and to reducepossible side loading if a carabiner isused. This termination will not workin the ”traditional system.”

Anchor BendThis easily tiedtermination will cinchdown on hardware,which also preventsside loading oncarabiners. The anchorbend is easily untiedfrom connectinglinks after use.

13Climbing Knots

BowlineThis termination is easy tountie. However becauseit is not a cinching type oftermination the potential forside loading of carabiners isgreatly increased. Thistermination is commonly usedin the conventional fixed tailclimbing system where the tailexiting the bowline is securedby forming the bridge and theclimbing hitch.

Secured Static FootlockThere are many ways to ascend into a tree.Many arborists use a friction hitch systemwith the “body thrust” technique to accessthe canopy. Another method that is used,only for asending, due to its safety, easeand efficiency is secured footlocking. Whilethe climber is secured to the climbing linewith a friction hitch tied with a endlessloop, usually a prusik or kreutzklem, it is notacceptable due to the static nature of thesystem to descend on this friction hitch.Whenever footlocking, a figure 8 descendershould be carried. The only safe method ofdescending out of a secured static footlockis to utilize a figure 8 attached below thefriction hitch.

The Figure “8”The Figure “8” is tied into the ends of linesto stop them from running out throughblocks or other knots. It is easily untiedeven when cinched down tight and shouldbe tied at least four inches from the bitterend so it has room to slip.

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Triple Fisherman’s LoopThis cinching type of terminationfinishes cleanly and minimizespotential side loading of carabiners.This hitch can be difficult to untiefrom connecting links with fixedor captive eyes such as lockingrope snaps.

Prusik LoopUsed to “self-belay” when using the “foot-lock”,it allows the climber to rest during the ascent.It must be tight to be effective and must neverbe used to descend a tree because it has littleholding power in the direction it is pushed.

Tautline Hitch& Blake’s HitchThese are used as the “climbers knot”to tie in. They must be kept tight to beeffective. Extreme care must be taken tominimize heat build up in these hitchescaused by fast descents. It is likely that a“bail out” descent will create sufficientheat to melt completely through theclimbing line.

Double Fisherman’s KnotNormally used to tie two ropes ofequal size together. Most commonlyused by arborists to create aPrusik Loop.

Climbing Hitches

Tautline Hitch

Blake's HitchA "kreutzklem" is apopular substitutefor the Prusik hitchin the secured staticfootlock system.

14Running Bowline

1/2 Hitch

Cow Hitch witha Better Half

Lowering Line

Arborist Block

Timber Hitch

Knots and RiggingRigging for tree removal is more complicated than climbing anddemands more experience as well as an understanding of the effectson the rope of the various knots and hitches used. It is widely knownthat knots can significantly reduce rope strength with a correspondingreduction in the work load limit recommended by a manufacturer.The rigging techniques and knots presented here are meant togive a general overview of the basic principles of rigging.

Prior to beginning any tree work, it is important to thoroughly examinethe tree for structural imperfections, faults or weaknesses that couldcompromise safety. This text is not a substitute for proper training.

The most difficult and dangerous aspect of rigging is “chunking out”trunk sections that are rigged vertically upon themselves. Safety, asalways, is the primary concern. It is important when rigging to reduceshock-loads and manage friction efficiently. This is easiest toachieve when using arborist grade rigging blocks in conjunctionwith appropriate lowering devices both of which have been testedand rated.

Excessive shock loading must always be considered when rigging.The rigging system should be constructed to withstand themaximum shock-load potential. Generally, maximum shock loadsare experienced in a rigging system when the rigged piece is notgradually decelerated or ”snubbed off”.

Testing and research has shown that the block and sling experiencemore than double the shock load force than any other part of therigging system if the piece is “snubbed off,” a situation to beavoided whenever possible.

DeadEye Sling

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FrictionLowering

Device

Cow Hitch with a Better Half

The cow hitch is essentially a girth hitch that is used to attachhardware to the tree. The hitch is easily tied and untied evenafter heavy loading. It is secure and reliable as it does not slip orcome undone when finished with a better half. The better halfis a half hitch in which the tail finishes over the bight of thegirth hitch, any excess tail should be tucked out of the wayof the attached hardware.

Running Bowline with Half Hitch

These knots are used in conjunction with one another to attachrigging lines to tree sections that are being rigged for removal.The running bowline is easily untied. It securely chokes the piecewhen steady pressure is applied, similar to a lasso. The half hitchreduces loading on the running bowline and provides stabilityand holding power.

Timber Hitch

The Timber Hitch is sometimes used to attach a false crotch toa tree as a lowering devise to lower or hoist limbs. It should beconsidered somewhat unreliable because it has a tendency toslip or come undone. This can be minimized by tucking for aminimum of 5 wraps, spreading out the tucks over as much ofthe circumference of the trunk as possible, and ensuring thatthe hitch is loaded “against the bight” whenever possible.

This is a simplified &compressed view of one

type of rigging system.

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Slings: Whoopie and TreeRigTreeRig™ Sling

Also know as a ”Dead Eye“ Samson TreeRig™ Slings are fabricated fromSamthane™ coated Stable Braid™ spliced with a 6” eye splice on oneend. These slings are commonly used to lash a block in place toestablish a false crotch. Tie block with a cow hitch for best results.

TREERIG™ SLING

COLOR LENGTHSIZE DIA.

9/16" Yellow 0.7 6’ Polybag (4)9/16" Yellow 0.9 8’ Polybag (4)9/16" Yellow 1.2 10’ Polybag (4)9/16" Yellow 1.6 14’ Polybag (4)9/16" Yellow 2.4 20’ Polybag (4)5/8" Red 0.9 6’ Polybag (4)5/8" Red 1.1 8’ Polybag (4)5/8" Red 1.4 10’ Polybag (4)5/8" Red 2.0 14’ Polybag (4)5/8" Red 2.8 20’ Polybag (4)3/4" Orange 1.1 6’ Polybag (4)3/4" Orange 1.5 8’ Polybag (4)3/4" Orange 1.8 10’ Polybag (4)3/4" Orange 2.5 14’ Polybag (4)3/4" Orange 3.6 20’ Polybag (4)7/8" Green 1.6 6’ Polybag (4)7/8" Green 2.2 8’ Polybag (4)7/8" Green 2.7 10’ Polybag (4)7/8" Green 3.8 14’ Polybag (4)7/8" Green 5.4 20’ Polybag (4)

PLEASE NOTE: Stable Braid strengths and working loads (on page 16) are for splicedrope. When used as a TreeRig Sling, additional bending and knot usage may furtherreduce rope strength with a corresponding reduction in work load limit. For safetyconsiderations, the work load limit should not exceed 10% of the rope strength.

Adjustable load rated lifting slings. The sling has a permanent eye spliceat one end, and an adjustable eye at the other end that allows it toadapt to loads of various sizes. The adjustment allows snug liftingcontrol and minimizes the number of fixed length slings required. Withthree sizes to choose from, there is a Samson Whoopie Sling for anylifting job. Each is permanently tagged with its capacity, polybagged andshipped in a carton.

Whoopie Sling

Strengths and working loads are for new, unused ropes with splices and no knots.

WHOOPIE SLING PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

2,200 lbs 1,760 lbs. 4,400 lbs.3,200 lbs 2,560 lbs. 6,400 lbs.4,200 lbs 3,380 lbs. 8,400 lbs.

COLORUNIT

WEIGHTADJUSTMENT

LENGTHPERM.

EYE SIZE

SINGLELEG

CHOKER BASKET

SLING ANGLE (FROM VERTICAL) 0° 15° 30° 45° 60° 75°Load Angle Factor 1.000 .966 .866 .707 .500 .259

RATED CAPACITIES* *Rated capacities are for slings invertical lift use and spliced inaccordance with Samson factoryprocedure. For angles other thanvertical, multiply by the “LoadAngle Factor” in the table shown toobtain the reduced rating based onthe calculated sling lift angle.

SIZE

1/2" blue 1.2 lbs 2.5 ft. to 4 ft. 5-inches5/8" red 1.7 lbs 3 ft. to 5 ft. 6-inches3/4" orange 2.8 lbs 3.5 ft. to 6 ft. 7-inches

PUT-UPWGT. LBS.

Eye to EyeThe Eye and Eye Split Tail is a fairly newinnovation utilizing Tenex. This Split Tailis being used to tie a variety of highlyeffective friction hitches such as theSchwaebisch Prusik and the Distel Hitch.

7/16” single end Tenex endlessloop sling.

Endless Loop Sling

Other possible Sling Configurations Made with Tenex

Two end per carrier construction Tenex SpiderLeg Balancer. This would be used either singly orwith multiple “spider leg balancers” in conjunc-tion with a lowering line to balance pieces beinglowered to the ground. The lowering line would beaffixed to the piece to be lowered. The “spider leg balancer” would beaffixed to the lowering line using a friction hitch and then the free end ofthe spider leg balancer would be attached to the end of the piece oppositewhere the lowering line is affixed.

Spider Leg Balancer

LoopieSingle end Tenex loopie – An adjustable endless loopsling. This could be used, among other things, toattach an arborist block while in the tree. It isimportant to note that when used it is critical thatwhen the sling is ”choked” the attachment point forthe sling is through the center of the buried part.

FEATURES

✱ Low stretch

✱ Excellent abrasion resistance

✱ High strength-to-weight ratio

✱ Flexible and easy to handle

✱ Minimal UV degradation

✱ Torque-free

DIAM.

STABLE BRAID

COLOR

1/2" Blue 10,400 lbs. 1,040 lbs. 8.2 lbs.9/16" Yellow 13,300 lbs. 1,330 lbs. 11.0 lbs.5/8" Red 16,300 lbs. 1,630 lbs. 14.0 lbs.3/4" Orange 20,400 lbs. 2,040 lbs. 18.0 lbs.7/8" Green 29,900 lbs. 2,990 lbs. 27.1 lbs.

2-in-1® double braid constructionconsisting of a braided polyestercover over a braided polyester core.

AVERAGESTRENGTH

WORKLOAD WT. PER 100’

Stable Braid™

Yellow

Orange

Green

Strengths and working loads are for new,unused ropes with splices and no knots.

Blue

ELASTIC ELONGATION

(at percentage ofaverage strength)

10% 1.1%

20% 1.7%

30% 2.7%

UNITS PER PACKPUT-UP 1/2” 9/16” 5/8” 3/4” 7/8”

150-foot Polybag 4 4 4 2 1

600-foot Reel 1 1 1 1 1

Elastic elongation based on ropestabilized from 200D2

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Red

TreeRigTM Dead Eye Slings are made from Stable Braid and areavailable pre-fabricated. Please refer to page 15 for details.

STABLE BRAID

Stable Braid is a 100% polyester doublebraid construction that is high strength,low stretch, low snag and durable. BrightSamthane™ Type A coating improves visibilityand enhances resistance to abrasion andsnagging. All sizes are color-coded for easyidentification: 1/2-inch blue, 9/16-inchyellow, 5/8-inch red, 3/4-inch orange and7/8-inch green.

More about Samthane coatings on page 21.

Tenex™ is a firm, round braided construction offeringhigh strength, low stretch and outstanding abrasionresistance. The proprietary coating enhances the rope’sfirmness and resistance to abrasion and snagging.These characteristics make Tenex and excellent choicefor rigging line and for slings.

Tenex is offered in a single end per carrier constructionin sizes 3/8” diameter through 7/8” diameter. Tenex isalso available in a double end per carrier, “slingconstruction”. This version is more flexible andeasier to splice than the single end version (dueto the double ends per carrier) is also slightly heavierand stronger than the single end construction.The sling construction is available in 1/2”, 5/8”and 3/4” diameter.

Both versions of Tenex are available with your choiceof coating colors, clear, red, blue, green, orange,yellow or black.

More about Samthane coatings on page 21.FEATURES

✱ Firm, roundconstruction

✱ Excellent snagand abrasionresistance

✱ Easy to splice

12-Strand constructionof high tenacity polyesterwith Samthane coating.

Tenex™

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ELASTIC ELONGATION


10% 1.4%

20% 2.3%

30% 3.0%Elastic elongation based on rope

stabilized from 200D2

DIAM.

TENEX – SINGLE END

3/8" 5,800 lbs. 580 lbs. 4.2 lbs.1/2" 11,800 lbs. 1,180 lbs. 8.5 lbs.5/8" 17,100 lbs. 1,710 lbs. 13.1 lbs.3/4" 22,400 lbs. 2,240 lbs. 17.2 lbs.7/8" 32,600 lbs. 3,260 lbs. 25.8 lbs.

AVERAGESTRENGTH


DIAM.

TENEX – DOUBLE END

1/2" 13,100 lbs. 1,310 lbs. 9.4 lbs.5/8" 18,800 lbs. 1,880 lbs. 13.8 lbs.3/4" 24,800 lbs. 2,480 lbs. 18.5 lbs.

AVERAGESTRENGTH


Strengths and working loads are for new,unused ropes with splices and no knots.

UNITS PER PACKPUT-UP 3/8” 1/2” 5/8” 3/4” 7/8”

150-foot Polybag 4 4 4 4 4

600-foot Reel 1 1 1 1 1

TENEX

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Arbor-Plex is an economical, torque-

balanced twelve-strand rope. Its tightly

braided construction holds its shape with

use. Arbor-Plex has excellent wear

resistance, it is light weight and has high

strength. First offered in the 1970’s as a

rigging line, it is widely known and trusted

as a ”workhorse” for virtually all uses.

Identified by a green ink stripe.

FEATURES

✱ Excellent wear and snag resistance✱ Excellent knot holding ability✱ Rot and mildew resistant✱ Remains flexible throughout

service life✱ Non rotational✱ Low stretch

Arbor-Plex™ Twelve-strand braidedconstruction of plied

polyester and polyolefin fiber.

ELASTIC ELONGATION


10% 1.7%

20% 2.9%

30% 3.6%

Average strength for new, unusedrope with no splices and no knots.

SIZE/DIAMETER:

5/8-inch 3/4-inch


12.0 lbs. 16.2 lbs.

AVERAGE STRENGTH:

9,000 lbs. 12,000 lbs.

WORKING LOAD:

900 lbs. 1,200 lbs.


UNITS PER PACKPUT-UP 5/8” 3/4”

150-foot Polybag 4 2

600-foot Reel 1 1


A demonstrationof advancedrigging techniques.

ARBOR-PLEX

Pro-Master™

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3-strand, twisted construction of spunand filament polyester jacket fiberscovering polyolefin core fibers.

FEATURES

✱ Lightweight, easy to handle

✱ High strength, low stretch

✱ Excellent knot holding

✱ Can be stored wet or dry

✱ Excellent chemical resistance

A firm and balanced three-strand rope offering reliability as well as economy. It holds itsshape even under heavy use and the spun fiber on the surface offers excellent grip andknot holding. It is identified by a green surface tracer. For performance and price, thereisn’t a better three-strand rigging rope in the marketplace.

DIAM.

PRO-MASTER

1/2" 6,300 lbs. 630 lbs. 6.5 lbs.5/8" 8,500 lbs. 850 lbs. 9.6 lbs.3/4" 10,900 lbs. 1,090 lbs. 13.9 lbs.7/8" 15,500 lbs. 1,550 lbs. 18.0 lbs.

AVERAGESTRENGTH

WORKLOAD

WT. PER 100’

ELASTIC ELONGATION


10% 2.0%

20% 3.2%

30% 3.9%

Average strength for new, unusedrope with splices and no knots.


Measuring forces in riggingwith a dynamometer.

UNITS PER PACKPUT-UP 1/2” 5/8” 3/4” 7/8”

150-foot Polybag 4 4 2 1

600-foot Reel 1 1 1 11,200-foot Reel 1 1 1 1

PRO-MASTER

Static rope is designed to equal or exceedthe 2001 NFPA standards. A firm bodyflexible Kernmantle construction designedto meet the demands of rescue, rappelling,and specialty rigging operations. It is abalanced non-rotational rope with a hightenacity solution dyed braided polyestercover over a heat stabilized nylon core.

FEATURES

✱ Excellent wear resistance✱ Good shock mitigation✱ Maintains firm round

shape when working✱ High strength to

weight ratio

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Kernmantle construction withpolyester cover and heat –

stabilized nylon core.

Red

Yellow

Black

Orange

White

ELASTIC ELONGATION


10% 3.2%

20% 4.5%

30% 6.0%

Average strength for new, unusedrope with no splices and no knots.

DIAM.

STATIC ROPESAVERAGESTRENGTH

WORKLOAD


UNITS PER PACKPUT-UP 3/8” 7/16” 1/2” 5/8”

600-foot Reel 1 1 1 1

STATIC ROPES

MM WT. PER 100’

3/8" 9 5,700 lbs. 570 lbs. 4.2 lbs.7/16" 11 8,200 lbs. 820 lbs. 6.0 lbs.1/2" 12 11,000 lbs. 1,100 lbs. 8.0 lbs.5/8" 16 13,500 lbs. 1,350 lbs. 11.2 lbs.

SAMTHANE™ SELECTORSamson provides advanced technology indeveloping protective coatings and otherchafe protection materials. If you havespecialized requirements and need a wearproblem solved, contact our ProductManager at the Ferndale facility.

Samthane™ coatings are a family ofurethanes that are formulated for specificrope constructions and fiber types. Thesecoatings are applied to match end-userrequirements for improved wear-resistance,rope firmness, spliceability, and coloridentification.

Samthane Coatings™

1. Bulk Strength is defined as strengthper circumference squared.

2. Coefficient of Friction is based onreluctance to slip or slide.

3. Critical Temperature is defined as thepoint at which degradation is caused bytemperature alone.

4. Cold Flow (Creep) is defined as fiberdeformation (elongation) due tomolecular slippage under a constantstatic loading situation. Fibers that havethis inherent characteristic will displayextremely low or negligible creep ifminor fluctuations occur in the rateand/or frequency of load levels. In ropeform, this would apply to polypropyleneand Dyneema® (HMWPE) fibers.

Fiber Characteristics

Property Samthane A Samthane F Samthane C Samthane S

Spliceability Yes Yes No Yes

Shore Hardness N.A. N.A. 85 A N.A.

Break Strength 2,500 psi 2,500 psi 5,400 psi 5,000 psi

Elongation at Break 610% 610% 450% 250%

Modulus at 300% 600 psi 600 psi 1,900 psi N. A.

Type Waterborne Waterborne 2-part WaterbornePolyurethane Polyurethane Polyurethane Polyurethane

GENERIC FIBER TYPE Nylon Polyester Polypropylene Dyneema® Technora® Manila

Bulk Strength1 1.0 1.05 .6 3.1-3.5 2.6 .5

Weight 1.0 1.21 .80 .85 1.22 1.21

Elongation of fiber@ break 1.0 .60 .55 .24 .22 .5

Coefficientof Friction2 .10 – .12 .12 – .15 .15 – .22 .08 .12 – .15 .15

Melting/DecompositionTemp 460°F 480°F 330°F 297°F 900°F Chars @ 350F

Critical 3

Temperature 350°F 350°F 250°F 150°F 450°F 180°F

Specific Gravity 1.14 1.38 .91 .97 1.39 1.38

Cold Flow (Creep)4 Negligible Negligible Negligible Negligible Negligible Negligibleto High to High

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SAMTHANE™ TYPES A, F AND S SAMTHANE™ TYPE CA very durable urethane that is normallyapplied to a 1/8” thickness to protect ropesin extremely abrasive situations. Generallyapplied to specific sections of rope howeverit can be applied in up to 160-foot lengths.This is a non-spliceable coating and isapplied to pre-fabricated ropes. The areasthat are coated become stiffened and donot maintain the product’s originalflexibility. Type C can also be utilized forthimble encapsulation. Standard color isorange, other colors are available.

All three coatings allow the rope construc-tion to be hand spliced per appropriatesplicing procedure for the product. Coatingsare available in red, green, blue, black,orange, yellow and clear. All three coatingswill increase rope weight by approximately3% to 5%.

The Type S coating is the hardest of thethree coatings and adds the most firmnessand is generally used with single braidconstructions.

Type A coating will create less productfirmness than Type S and is generally usedwith double braid rope constructions.

Type F coating will generate the leastfirmness of the three coatings and isgenerally used on rope constructionsthat are firm by design.

FIBER CHARACTERISTICS

All three coatings:

• Enhance wear resistance

• Reduce snagging

• Reduce cutting

• Allow ease of splicing

• Offer color identification

Using Nylon as a basis of 1.0

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on Through the years, Samson has worked

closely with the leading fiber manufactur-ers to develop new products utilizing thelatest in fiber technology. Our experiencehas resulted in the establishment ofSamson’s development and testingfacilities and the implementation of theSamson Quality Assurance Program.

Samson’s complete arborist product lineincludes climbing lines, rigging lines, andrigging accessories – all designedspecifically for the professional.

A continuing commitment to quality and innovationThe development and testing facilitymaintains fully certified testing capabilities

for tensile/break testing to1,100,00 pounds, wet and dryabrasion testing, rope analysisfor construction and fiber type,and termination expertiseand development.

To ensure Samson productsconsistently meet the highest

standards, wehave developed aQuality AssuranceProgram that conforms to MilitaryStandards. Routine inspections, analysisand testing of finished products assureshighest quality. Computer generatedproduction documents and individualspecifications for all products meanSamson’s products consistentlymeet the highest standards.

To illustrate the three (3) basic states of extension,the following table lists Samson standarddefinitions used in reporting test information.

Elongation Data

Elastic Elongation (E.E.): Refers to theportion of stretch or extension of a rope thatis immediately recoverable after the loadon the rope is released. This recoverabletendency is a primary result of the fiber(or fibers) used as opposed to the ropeconstruction. Each type of synthetic fiberinherently displays a unique degree ofelasticity. Relatively, HMWPE fiber has anextremely low elasticity compared to nylonfiber.

Hysteresis: Refers to a recoverable portionof stretch or extension over a period of timeafter a load is released. In measuring elasticrecovery it is the recovery that occursimmediately when a load is removed. Butthereafter, a remaining small percentage ofelastic recovery will occur slowly andgradually over a period of hours or days. Thisretardation in recovery is measured on alength/time scale and is known as hysteresisor recovery over time.

Permanent Extension (P.E.) After Relaxed =That portion of extension which, due toconstructional deformation (compacting ofbraid and helical changes) and some plasticdeformation of the yarn fibers prevent therope returning the original length.

Permanent Extension (P.E.) While Working =The amount of extension which exists whenstress is removed but no time is given forhysteresis recovery.It includes the nonrecoverable and hysteresisextension as one value and represents anyincrease in length of a rope in a constantworking situation such as during repeatedsurges in towing or other similar cyclicaloperations.

The percentage of Permanent Extension overthe working load range is generally in orderof 4 or 6% for braided ropes and two to three

Sheave Diameters Should Be:

■ Twisted/Plaited = 10 times rope diameter

To assure maximum efficiency and safety, sheaves for braided ropes should be no less than eight (8) times ropediameter. The sheave groove diameter should be no less than 10% greater than the rope diameter. The sheavegroove should be round in shape. Sheaves with “V” shaped grooves should be avoided, as they tend to pinchand damage the rope through excessive friction and crushing of the rope fibers. Sheave surfaces should be keptsmooth and free of burrs and gouges. Bearings should be maintained to ensure smooth rotation of sheaves.

Sheave Diameter and Sizes

Any sharp bend in a rope, underload, decreases its strengthsubstantially – and may causepremature damage or failure. Manyrope users are surprised to learnthat a simple overhand knot (aseries of sharp bends) reduces ropestrength by almost 50%.

In sizing the radius of Bitts, Fairleads, and Chocks, for best performance –the following guidelines are offered:Where a rope bends more than 10 degrees around its bitts or chocks, or, for that matter, is bendingacross any surface – the diameter of that surface should not be less than 3 times the diameter of therope. Another way of saying it is that – the diameter of the surface should be at least 3 times the ropediameter. A 4/1 ratio (or larger) would be better yet – as durability of the rope increases substantiallyas the diameter of the surface over which it is worked increases.

Technical Information

SHEAVE

GROOVEDIAMETER

▲▲

ROPE

▲

DIAMETERDIAMETER

ROPE▲▲

▲▲

▲▲

No Less Than10% Greater

Than TheRope Diameter

■ Braided = 8 times rope diameter

Bending Radius

22

times as much for plaited – but will vary slightlywith different fibers and ropeconstructions. In some applications – suchas sub-surface mooring or devices that demandprecise depth location and measurement,allowances must be made for this factor.

Creep Flow (Creep) = Fiber deformation(elongation) due to molecular slippage undera constant static loading situation. Fibers thathave this inherent characteristic will displayextremely lower or negligible creep if minorfluctuations occur in the rate and or frequencyof load levels.

HYSTERESIS

HYSTERESIS

HYSTERESIS

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Dynamic LoadingFor dynamic loading applications involvingsevere exposure conditions, or forrecommendations on special applications,consult the manufacturer, for moreinformation see pages 24 and 25.

Danger to PersonnelPersons should be warned against theserious danger of standing in line with arope under tension. Should the rope part,it may recoil with considerable force. Inall cases where any such risks are present,or if there is any question about the loadsinvolved or the condition of use, theworking load should be substantiallyreduced and the rope properly inspectedbefore every use.

Winching LinesBraided rope can develop a twist whenconstantly used on a winch. This makeshandling more difficult and the ropeshould be relaxed and rotated in theopposite direction to remove a twist.To avoid this condition the directionof turns over the winch should bealternated regularly.

Splicing and KnotsSplices should be used instead of knotswhenever possible because knots candecrease rope strength up to 50%.When splices are used, always use themanufacturer’s recommended splicingprocedures. When knots are used, besure to take into consideration the knot’scorresponding reduction to the ropestrength and adjust your working loadaccordingly. For more informationplease see the Knots and Riggingsection, pages 14 and 15.

Rope InspectionAvoid using rope that shows signs ofaging and wear. If in doubt, destroythe used rope.

No type of visual inspection can beguaranteed to accurately and preciselydetermine the actual residual strength.When the fibers show wear in any givenarea, the rope should be re-spliced,downgraded, or replaced. Check the lineregularly for frayed strands and brokenyarns. Pulled strands should bere-threaded into the rope if possible.A pulled strand can snag on a foreignobject during rope operation.

Standards forStrength and Usage

New Rope Tensile StrengthsNew rope tensile strengths are based ontests of new and unused rope of standardconstruction in accordance withmanufacturer’s Standard Test Methods.It can be expected that strengths willdecrease as soon as a rope is put into use.Because of the wide range of rope use,changes in rope conditions, exposure tothe many factors affecting rope behavior,and the possibility of risk to life andproperty, it is impossible to cover allaspects of rope applications or tomake blanket recommendations asto working loads.

Working LoadsWorking loads are for rope in goodcondition with appropriate splices, innoncritical applications and under normalservice conditions. Working loads arebased on a percentage of the approximatebreaking strength of new and unused ropeof current manufacture. For our arboristrope products, when used under normalconditions, the working load percentageis 10% of published strengths. Normalworking loads do not cover dynamicconditions such as shock loads orsustained loads, nor do they cover wherelife, limb or valuable property are involved.In these cases a lower working load mustbe used.

A higher working load may be selectedonly with expert knowledge of conditionsand professional estimates of risk, if therope has been inspected and found to bein good condition, and if the rope has notbeen subject to dynamic loading (such assudden drops, snubs or pick-ups), excessiveuse, elevated temperatures, or extendedperiods under load.

Normal Working LoadsNormal working loads are not applicablewhen rope has been subject to dynamicloading. Whenever a load is picked up,stopped, moved or swung there is anincreased force due to dynamic loading.The more rapidly or suddenly such actionsoccur, the greater the increase will be. Inextreme cases, the force put on the ropemay be two, three, or even more times thenormal load involved. Examples could beropes used as a tow line, picking up a loadon a slack line, or using rope to stop afalling object. Dynamic effects are greateron a low elongation rope such as polyesterthan on a high elongation rope such asnylon, and greater on a short rope than ona long one. Therefore, in all suchapplications normal working loads asgiven do not apply, for more informationsee pages 24 through 26.

Both outer and inner rope fibers contributeto the strength of the rope. When either isworn, the rope is naturally weakened.Open the strands of the rope and look forpowdered fiber, which is one sign ofinternal wear.

A heavily used rope will often becomecompacted or hard which indicates reducedstrength. The rope should be discarded ifthis condition exists.

Avoid All Abrasive ConditionsAll rope will be severely damaged ifsubjected to rough surfaces or sharp edges.Chocks, bitts, winches, drums and othersurfaces must be kept in good conditionand free of burrs and rust. Pulleys must befree to rotate and should be of proper sizeto avoid excessive wear.

Avoid Chemical ExposureRope is subject to damage by chemicals.Consult the manufacturer for specificchemical exposure, such as solvents, acids,and alkalies. Consult the manufacturer forrecommendations when a rope will be usedwhere chemical exposure (either fumes oractual contact) can occur.

Avoid OverheatingHeat can seriously affect the strength ofsynthetic ropes. The temperatures at which50 percent strength loss can occur are:Polypropylene 250° F, Nylon 350° F,Polyester 350° F. When using rope wherethe temperature exceeds these levels (or ifit is too hot to hold), consult the manufac-turer for recommendations as to the sizeand type of rope for the proposedcontinuous heat exposure conditions.When using ropes on a capstan or winch,care should be exercised to avoid surgingwhile the capstan or winch head isrotating. The friction from this slippagecauses localized overheating which canmelt or fuse synthetic fibers, resulting insevere loss of tensile strength.

StorageAll rope should be stored clean, dry, out ofdirect sunlight, and away from extremeheat. It should be kept off the floor onracks to provide ventilation underneath.Never store on a concrete or dirt floor, andunder no circumstances should cordage andacid or alkalies be kept in the same vicinity.Some synthetic rope (in particularpolypropylene or polyethylene) may beseverely weakened by prolonged exposureto ultraviolet (UV) rays unless specificallystabilized and/or pigmented to increase UVresistance. UV degradation is indicated bydiscoloration and the presence of splintersand slivers on the surface of the rope.

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premium quality ropes and cords. In the mid1970’s we began developing a climbing ropespecifically for arborists, it was a braided12 strand construction and was calledArbor-Plex. Today Samson offers a widerange of quality climbing and rigging ropesspecifically for the arborist and we prideourselves with the knowledge that we helpedcontribute to the growth and professionalismof the Arborist Industry.

In addition to the information on ropeselection and usage shown here thereare several other professional arboristassociations and publications as wellas performance specifications:

✱ ANSI Z133.1 - 2000 and A300

✱ NAA (National Arborist Association)

✱ ISA (International Society ofArborculture)

✱ ASCA (American Societyof Consulting Arborists)

✱ Tree Care Industry Magazine

✱ Arbor Age Magazine

✱ Arborist Equipment by Don Blair

✱ NFPA (National FireProtection Association)

✱ Cordage Institute

Using rope for any purpose subjects it tofriction, bending and tension. All ropehardware, including pulleys and carabiners, aswell as knots and hitches, are in varyingdegrees damaging to the rope and it isimportant to remember that rope will losestrength during use, even under idealconditions. As an Arborist your safetydepends upon how you manage this strengthloss and making sure ropes are retired beforethey become dangerous. Your ropes are tools,the same as a chainsaw or a climbing saddle.Used properly they will give you consistentand reliable service. The cost of replacing arope is very small compared to the damage orinjury a worn out rope can cause.

Rope Life FactorsThere are basically three steps to considerin providing the longest possible service lifefor ropes, the safest conditions and longrange economy: Selection, Usage,and Retirement.

SELECTION:Select the right rope forthe job in the first place:1.

Rope Inspection and Retirement

Selecting a rope involves evaluating acombination of factors. Some of thesefactors are straight forward like comparingrope specifications. Others are lessqualitative like a preference for a specificcolor or how a rope feels in your hand.Cutting corners, reducing applicationfactors, sizes or strengths on an initialpurchase creates unnecessary replacements,potentially dangerous conditions andincreases long term costs. Fiber andconstruction being equal, a larger rope willoutlast a smaller rope – because of thegreater surface wear distribution. By thesame token, a stronger rope will outlast aweaker one – becauseit will be used at a lower percentage ofits break strength with less chance ofover stressing.

StrengthWhen given a choice between ropes, selectthe strongest of any given size. A load of200 pounds represents 2% of the strengthof a rope with a breaking strength of 10,000pounds. The same load represents 4% of thestrength of a rope that has a breakingstrength of 5,000 pounds. The weaker ropeis having to work harder and as a result willhave to be retired sooner. Braided ropes arestronger than twisted ropes that are thesame size and fiber type and therefore arethe most popular climbing lines.

ElongationIt is well accepted that ropes with lowerelongation under load will give you betterload control, a big help at complicated jobsites. However, ropes with lower elongationthat are shock loaded, like a lowering line,can fail without warning even though itappears to be in good shape. Low elongat-ing ropes should be selected with thehighest possible strength. Both twistedropes and braided ropes are suitable forrigging. Twisted rope has lower strengthand more stretch. Braided rope has higherstrength and lower stretch.

FirmnessSelect ropes that are firm and round andhold their shape during use. Soft or mushyropes will snag easily and abrade quicklycausing accelerated strength loss. Becausethe fibers are in a straighter line, whichimproves strength but compromisesdurability, loose or mushy rope will almostalways have higher break strengths than asimilar rope that is firm and holds its shape.

USAGE:Use rope properly:Observe recommendedusage factors.Keep ropes cleanand eliminate abrasionwhenever possible.

2.

Consider the opinion of professionalclimbers who may have more experience asto how well a rope performs. Consider alsothe reputation of the rope manufacturer.Are they involved with and supportive ofthe arborist industry? Do they stand behindtheir products with consistent quality andreliable service? Buying unproven ropesbecause they are a little less expensive isfalse economy and can lead to disaster.

Working LoadsWorking loads are the loads that a rope issubjected to in everyday activity. They arenormally expressed as a percentage of newrope strength and should not exceed 10%.A point to remember is that a rope may beseverely overloaded or shock loaded in usewithout breaking. However, damage andstrength loss may have occurred withoutany visible indication. The next time therope is used under normal working loadsthe acquired weakness causes it to break.Do not blame the rope, it was simplyoverloaded and failed from what isknown as fatigue.

RecommendedWorkload limit:

(expressed as a percent of new rope strength)

Rope Used Braided Twisted

Climbing Line 10% 10%

Rigging Rope 10% 10%

BendingAny sharp bend in a rope, under load,decreases its strength substantially andmay cause premature damage and failure.

Shock LoadsShock loads are simply a sudden changein tension – from a state of relaxation orlow load to one of high load. Any suddenload that exceeds the work load by morethan 10% is considered a shock load.The further an object falls, the greaterthe impact. Synthetic fibers have amemory and retain the effects of beingoverloaded or shock loaded and can failat a later time even though loadedwithin the work load range.

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Knots and HitchesWhile it is true that a knot reduces ropestrength, it is also true that a knot is aconvenient way to attach a rope to treelimbs and other ropes. The strength loss isa result of the tight bends that occur in theknot. With some knots ropes can loose upto 50% of their strength which is part ofthe reason the work load limit should notexceed 10% of the rope strength.

Rope StorageKeep your ropes as clean and dry as possibleand store them in a coil away from heatsources. Many climbers keep their ropesin special rope bags which keeps themclean and makes them easy to identifyat the job site.

RETIREMENT:Retire rope from usewhen it has reachedits discard point.

3.One of the most frequently askedquestions is “When should I retire myrope?” The most obvious answer is beforeit breaks. But, without a thoroughunderstanding of how to inspect it andknowing the load history, you are leftmaking an educated guess. Unfortunately,there are no definitive rules nor industryguidelines to establish when a rope shouldbe retired because there are so manyvariables that affect rope strength. Factorslike load history, bending radius, abrasion,chemical exposure or some combinationof those factors, make retirement decisionsdifficult. Inspecting your rope should be acontinuous process of observation before,during and after each use. In syntheticfiber ropes the amount of strength lossdue to abrasion and/or flexing is directlyrelated to the amount of broken fiber inthe rope’s cross section. After each use,look and feel along every inch of therope length inspecting for damage aslisted below.

AbrasionWhen the rope is first put into service theouter filaments of the rope will quicklyfuzz up. This is the result of thesefilaments breaking and this roughenedsurface actually forms a protectivecushion and shield for the fibersunderneath. This condition shouldstabilize, not progress. If the surfaceroughness increases, excessive abrasion istaking place and strength is being lost. Asa general rule for braided ropes, whenthere is 25% or more wear from abrasionthe rope should be retired from service. Inother words, if 25% or more of the fiber isbroken or worn away the rope should beremoved from service. With three-strandropes, 10% or more wear is accepted asthe retirement point.

Look closely at both the inner and outerfibers. When either is worn the rope isobviously weakened. Open the strands andlook for powdered fiber which is one signof internal wear. Estimate the internalwear to estimate total fiber abrasion. Iftotal fiber loss is 20%, then it is safe toassume that the rope has lost 20% of itsstrength as a result of abrasion.

Glossy or Glazed AreasGlossy or glazed areas are signs of heatdamage with more strength loss than theamount of melted fiber indicates. Fibersadjacent to the melted areas are probablydamaged from excessive heat even thoughthey appear normal. It is reasonable toassume that the melted fiber hasdamaged an equal amount of adjacentunmelted fiber.

Inconsistent DiameterInspect for flat areas, bumps or lumps.This can indicate core or internal damagefrom overloading or shock loads andis usually sufficient reason to replacethe rope.

DiscolorationWith use, all ropes get dirty. Be on thelookout for areas of discoloration whichcould be caused by chemical contamina-tion. Determine the cause of thediscoloration and replace the rope ifit is brittle or stiff.

Inconsistency inTexture and StiffnessCan indicate excessive dirt or gritembedded in the rope or shock loaddamage and is usually reason toreplace the rope.

High temperatures can be achieved whensurging rope on a capstan, checking ropeson a cable, running over stuck or non-rollingsheaves or rollers. Each rope’s constructionand fiber type will yield a differentcoefficient of friction (reluctance to slip)in a new and used state. It is important tounderstand the operational demands andinsure the size, rope construction and fibertype be taken into account to minimizeheat buildup.

Never let ropes under tension rub togetheror move relative to one another. Enoughheat to melt the fibers can buildup andcause the rope to fail as quickly as if ithad been cut with a knife.

Always be aware of areas of heat buildupand take steps to minimize it; under nocircumstances let any rope come incontact with an exhaust muffler or anyother hot object.

The strength of a used rope can bedetermined by testing but the rope isdestroyed in the process so the ability todetermine the retirement point before itfails in service is essential. That ability isbased on a combination of education inrope use and construction along with goodjudgment and experience. Remember, youalmost always get what you pay for in theform of performance and reliability.

TemperatureWhen using rope, friction can be your bestfriend or worst enemy if it is not managedproperly. By definition, friction creates heat,the greater the friction, the greater the heatbuildup. Heat is an enemy to synthetic fiberand elevated temperatures can drasticallyreduce the strength and or cause ropemelt-through.

The critical and melting temperaturesfor synthetic fibers are listed below:

TEMPERATURES Critical Melting

Polypropylene 250° F 330° F

Dyneema® 150° F 297° F

Technora 450° F 900° F*

Nylon 350° F 460° F

Polyester 350° F 480° F

Manila 180° F 350° F**While the term "melting does not applyto these fibers, they do undergo extremedegradation at these temperatures:Technora and Manila char.

Sheave diameters onrotating sheave blocks

Twisted Rope = 10 times therope diameter

Braided Rope = 8 times therope diameter

Fixed PINTermination Diameter:The diameter on fixed pintermination should be at least3 times the diameter –i.e.,the bending radius for 1/2’’rope should be 1-1/2’’

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Condition Discard Point

3. Diameter inconsistency:• Localized diameter reduction ..................................... ✔

• Flat areas ................................................................ ✔• Lumps and bumps in rope ......................................... ✔

4. Glossy or glazed fiber:• Localized or extended areas ...................................... ✔

5. Inconsistency of texture:• Localized or extended areas of stiffness ..................... ✔

6. Discoloration:• Localized or extended areas• caused by chemical contamination ............................. ✔

Below: Rope Strands showing full volume.

ROPE INSPECTION CHECK LIST

Condition Discard Point

1. Original rope bulk reduced by abrasion:• Double braid* cover by 50% ............................................ ✔

• Twelve-strand braid by 25% ............................................. ✔

• Eight-strand plait by 25% ................................................ ✔

• Three-strand by 10% ...................................................... ✔

2. Fiber strands cut:• Double braid* by three or more adjacent strands cut ......... ✔

• Twelve-strand braid by two or more adjacent strands cut .... ✔

• Eight-strand plait by one or more adjacent strands cut ....... ✔

• Three-strand by one or more adjacent strands cut ............. ✔

*Refers to double braids that have both core and cover strength members.

Rope Inspectionand Retirement

Above: Rope displaying 25% strand volumereduction from abrasion – rope should beretired from service.

Note: Amount of volume reduction thatindicates retirement depends on ropeconstruction. Refer to "check list" below.

Above: Rope strands reduced by25% abrasion.

Volume Reduction

Melting or Glazing

Damage depicted at below caused byexcessive heat which melted andfused the fibers. This area will beextremely stiff. Unlike fibercompression, melting damagecannot be mitigated by flexing therope. Melted areas must be cut outand rope respliced or the rope mustbe retired.

Below: Rope displaying original bulk.

Cut Strands

Rope displays two adjacent cutstrands. This rope should eitherbe retired or the cut sectionshould be removed and theremaining rope re-spliced.

Compression

Rope exhibits fiber-set from compression.A slight sheen is visible. This is not apermanent characteristic and can beeliminated by flexing the rope. Thisconditions should not be confused withglazed or melted fiber (see Melting below.)

Note: Number of cut strands thatindicate retirement depends on ropeconstruction. See "check list" below.

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Avoid Kinking and Hockling:The continuous use of a line on one sideof a winch or windlass is a common abusewhich can render a line useless in acomparatively short time. Repeated haulingof a line over a winch in a counterclockwisedirection will extend the lay of the rope andsimultaneously shorten the twist of eachstrand. As this action continues, kinks (orhockles) will develop. Once these hocklesappear, they cannot be removed and therope is permanently damaged at the pointof hockling.

If, on the other hand, the lineis continuously hauled over awinch in a clockwise direction,the rope lay is shortened andthe rope becomes stiff and willkink readily.

Removing Ropefrom Reel or Coil:Synthetic fiber ropes are normally shippedon reels for maximum protection while intransit. The rope should be removed fromthe reel by pulling it off the top while thereel is free to rotate. This can be accom-plished by passing a pipe through the centerof the reel and jacking it up until the reel isfree from the deck. Rope should never betaken from a reel lying on its side. If therope is supplied on a coil, it should alwaysbe uncoiled from the inside so that the firstturn comes off the bottom in a counter-clockwise direction.

Rope Handling

Figure “8”Great care must betaken in the stowageand proper coiling ofthree-strand ropes toprevent the naturalbuilt-in twist of theline from developingkinks and damaginghockles.

Braided ropes on theother hand have nobuilt-in twist and are far more resistant tokinking. Even if kinks do develop theycannot develop further into hockles.

The best method for making up braided ropefor deck stowage is in figure-eight fashioneither flaked flat on the deck or figure-eightvertically around bulkhead cleats. It shouldnot be hand coiled in either direction as thismerely puts turn into the line which maydevelop into kinks when paying-out.Remember that there is no turn or twist inthe line to begin with so do not produce itby coiling.

To avoid detrimental conditions, thedirection of turns over the winch should bealternated regularly. Clockwise turns arerecommended for the initial use of a newline. If this practice is observed, the originalrope balance will be maintained and thelines will have a much longer useful life.

This condition also arises in the deep-seamooring of free-rotating buoys where athree-strand rope will rotate until it spinsand twists itself into hockles and eventuallydestroys itself. The use of swivels withthree-strand ocean-towing hawsers, ortransmission stringing lines, may alsocause damaging hockles. The sudden releaseof a heavy strain may also cause hocklesor hard kinks.

Excessive turns can cause kinking in anyrope but hockles can occur only in the basic“twisted” ropes (three-strand, four-strandand cable-laid).

Braided and plaited ropes cannot behockled; their inter-locking strandconstruction prevents the unlaying. Strandsrun in both directions creating a torque-freebalance thus eliminating any inherenttendency toward twist or rotation. Swivelscan be used safely but are seldom necessary.One word of caution here: when marrying abraided line to a twisted line (and also towire rope) the twisted line can impart itstwist to the braided line if the ropes aremarried without a swivel in between.

A braided or plaited rope, being torque-free,can have twist induced by constant workingon winches and capstans. If a twistdevelops, it can easily be removed by“counter-rotating” when the rope is relaxed.

Coiling and Flaking:Three-strand ropes should be coiled in aclockwise direction (or in the direction ofthe lay of the rope) and uncoiled in acounterclockwise direction to avoid kinks.An alternate and perhaps better methodis to flake out the line figure-eightfashion. This avoids putting twist in theline in either direction and lessens therisk of kinking.

For more information please contact:www.samsonrope.com

SAMSON2090 Thornton Street, Ferndale, WA USA 98248Phone: (360) 384-4669Fax: (360) 384-0572

TRADEMARK NOTICES:AmSteel® and 2-in-1® are registered trademarks ofSamson Rope Technologies. BlueStreak™, GoldStreak™, True Blue™,Arbor-Plex™, Tree-Master™, Pro-Master™, Samthane™ and Stable Braid™

are trademarks of Samson Rope Technologies. Dyneema® is DSM’sregistered trademark for high performance polyethylene fiber.Technora® is a registered trademark of Teijin Ltd.ArborMaster® is a registered trademark of ArborMaster Training, Inc.

ACKNOWLEDGMENTSSamson would like to acknowledge the followingassociations, publications and individuals for theirassistance in assembling the technical informationpresented in this catalog:

✱ National Arborist Association

✱ International Society of Arboriculture

✱ Arborist Equipment, by Donald F. Blair

✱ Arboricultural Journal, (ABA) ArboriculturalAssociation, Volume 17, Number 2, May 1993

✱ On Rope, by Allen Padgell and Bruce Smith

✱ High Angle Rescue Techniques,by Tom Vines and Steve Hudson

✱ Annapolis Book of Seamanship, by Tom Rousmaniere

✱ ArborMaster Training with special thanks to Sean Gere

ADDITIONAL REFERENCES✱ National Arborist Association

video “Ropes, Knots and Climbing”

✱ The Art & Science of PracticalRigging produced by ISA andArborMaster Training.

InternationalSociety of Arboriculture

ArborMasterTraining, Inc.

NationalArborist Association

MEMBER

© 2004 Samson SWD #105760 7/04

Member of ANSI Z133 Committee

Documents

Arborist Rope