Duration\Dates\Schedule:

Ongoing

Project Overview:

Despite the long term use of ropes and knots in the Fire Service, characterization of modern materials and systems is not complete. It is known that nearly all knots, bends, or hitches reduce the strength of rope. Knot strength studies have been reported in rope rescue texts and papers, but, as these authors note, different values are likely for different types of rope (the data quoted in manuals was collected in 1987). Another important factor that influences knot strength is the knot "dressing" (extent of twist, etc), which is qualitatively understood, but has not been systematically studied in a quantitative manner. Finally, studies will be conducted to determine whether quasi-static tensile strength of knotted (and virgin) rope is a valid indicator of the dynamic load absorbing capability.

A second issue of importance is the effect of temperature and thermal cycling on rescue or escape ropes. The NFPA 1983 only states that life safety rope and escape ropes must be tested for elongation and breaking strength according to Cordage Institute Standards (at laboratory temperature) and have a minimum melting temperature. These standards make no mention of the variation of strength at different temperatures or how thermal cycling affects rope strength (it is likely that an escape rope system may be in several fires prior to its first deployment).

Goals:

• Qualitative and Quanitative analysis of the impact of knots on a rope.
• Analysis of the effective of temperature on rescue and escape ropes.

Contacts:

• Gavin Horn - IFSI Research Program Director
• Professor Peter Kurath - Mechanical and Industrial Engineering at the University of Illinois