Static and dynamic tests on the RIG
The following tests were done in laboratories, with new devices and new ropes certified to current standards. Test results are given for information only: they could be different with devices and/or ropes that are worn from use, or with other types or models of rope.
Warnings
- Carefully read the Instructions for Use used in this technical advice before consulting the advice itself. You must have already read and understood the information in the Instructions for Use to be able to understand this supplementary information.
- Mastering these techniques requires specific training. Work with a professional to confirm your ability to perform these techniques safely and independently before attempting them unsupervised.
- We provide examples of techniques related to your activity. There may be others that we do not describe here.
A. Tests on RIG 2018
A1: Static tests on RIG 2018
Slow-pull tests done on different ropes; the measured value is the load at which the rope begins to slip in the device.
A2: Dynamic tests on RIG 2018
Fall arrest tests done during the EN 12841, EN 341, EN 15151 and NFPA certifications, and additional Petzl tests designed to cover exceptional situations. Note: all of the tests which were done are not mentioned here, only those yielding pertinent information about RIG usage are cited.
EN 12841 certification test - Device on 1 m of rope, 1 m fall on a 1 m x 11 mm dynamic rope lanyard.
EN 341 certification test - 60 cm fall on 4 m of rope.
EN 15151 certification test and additional Petzl tests - 2 m fall on 1 m of rope.
NFPA certification test with rigid mass.
Additional Petzl tests with dummy and harness - 60 cm fall on 3 m of rope.
B. Archive: tests on RIG < 2018
B1: dynamic test on RIG 2018
Test conditions:
- Rope length: 1 m
- Mass:100 kg
The values given are averages; they vary depending on the rope models used.
B2: static test on RIG < 2018
These tests were done using a slow pull.
B3. Belaying with RIG < 2018, device on the anchor: 150 kg
Extreme use case:
Fall factor 0.3 tests were carried out with a 150 kg rigid mass: 1 m fall on 3 m of new rope. The mass could be lowered after the test. The impact forces obtained in these falls are all between 6 and 7 kN, due to rope slippage in the device (on low stretch kernmantel ropes). These results are slightly higher on static ropes (for example NFPA Technical Use certified ropes): from 0.5 kN to 1 kN.
The slippage in the brake hand is more than 100 cm. These tests showed the importance of limiting slack in the rope and of ALWAYS keeping a firm grip on the brake side of the rope. Holding the brake side of the rope allows rope slippage in the device to be minimized.
