Mailing List Archive

Mailing List: techdiver

Message Display

On Tue, 21 Nov 1995 bmk@ds*.bc*.ca* wrote:

> The problems I see are 1. I don't want to throw the ascenders away after 
> the first use in water.  
  The Petzl ascenders I recommended are made for caving and are expected 
to be used in rivers, waterfalls, etc- no problem. Everything is anodized,
stainless, or plated. They can be removed and replaced with one hand.

2.  Since the current can run in either direction
> the ascenders will need to be able to grip in either direction.  
  The best solution for this is to have two ascenders, one for each 
direction. There is also a self-locking rappel device which might be 
useful for this application.

3. The water is cold ( 5C? ) so I will need to be able to operate 
the ascenders > with a gloved hand.  
  The expedition model is made with a large handle for use with thick 
gloves. The safety catch also has an extender to make it easier to
use with gloves.

4.>  I would like to use the thinnest rope possible.
  For several reasons, I would recommend 7mm, certainly nothing smaller
for climbing up the walls. 

> 5.  How to attach the ascenders to my diving rig so that I can operate them.> 
  I have used my regular caving seat harness underwater with good results.
It is important to use a style which will stay put and not try to shift down
onto your legs. It is also possible to tie a harness with climbing webbing
which should be adequate for this task. Attach the ascender with short slings
so you can reach them easily and get good leverage for moving them.
If you are planning to use a single rope stretched across so that you will
be working in the "v" it would be a good idea to attach yourself to the rope
with a carabiner on a sling which is shorter than the ascender slings.

> Beyond the above use of the ascenders there are several potholes I would like
> to dive that are protected by rather slimy looking walls.  However this is 
> more of a standard climbing use of ascenders.
  The addition of one more ascender and possibly a chest harness would work
fine for this if properly rigged. 

  Please be very aware of the awesome force that water currents can exert.
It may be necessary to use an attachment point between the seat and chest
for stability. As always, test the rig under controlled conditions before
putting it (and yourself) on the line.  

Safe horizontal underwater ascending :) Paul

Navigate by Author: [Previous] [Next] [Author Search Index]
Navigate by Subject: [Previous] [Next] [Subject Search Index]

[Send Reply] [Send Message with New Topic]

[Search Selection] [Mailing List Home] [Home]