SKYLOTEC ACX, Instructions For Use Manual, Page: 21 / 104

21
Pre-Soaking (applies only to Polyamid ropes)
It is recommended that only presoaked ropes are used with SKYLOTEC Ascenders. New ropes should be put in cold water <40°C (104°F) for 24
hours and dried slowly afterwards. This will make ropes more suitable for use in SKYLOTEC Ascenders for two reasons:
2.2) Rope density
Pre-soaking makes ropes denser. The fibres will absorb the water and will shrink when drying. The result is that all fibres become more densely aligned
and the sheath sits tighter around the core of the rope. This will make the rope more solid and will consequently result in less mantle slippage and
deformation and thereby lead to better grip in the Ascender.
2.3) Oil dissolution
During the production process some oil is added to the rope fibres in order to reduce the friction between the individual fibres. When soaking the rope
in cold water some surface oil in the sheath of the rope will dissolve. This will contribute further to a better grip. Do not soak ropes in warm water, this
will lead to greater dissolution of oil, which will have a negative impact on the rope properties.
WARNING: Always make sure that the rope is in good condition.
NOTE: A new rope will get an increased service life if it is soaked in cold water before the first use.Avoid getting sand or dirt onto/into the ropes since it
will wear the Rope Grab and Rope Guide. Use a rope mat, rope bag or similar.
3.) General safety guidelines and lifting systems
3.1) General safety guidelines
• The ACX Ascender is designed for both personnel and equipment lifting. These applications have different system requirements. Operate the
Ascender according to the advice contained within this user manual and pre-planned work instructions (lift plan, access plan)
• Only trained and competent operators should operate the ACX Ascender and its ancillary equipment
• Plan and evaluate your work carefully. A rescue plan should be in place
• Plan for appropriate supervision of work
• Perform a toolbox talk before starting the work
• Use only approved and inspected equipment. This goes for the Ascender, PPE and/or lifting equipment
• Inspection of equipment must be carried out in accordance with local regulations. The Ascender should undergo a documented inspection at
least once every year
• Pre-use check of the Ascender should be carried out in accordance with the inspection guidance provided (see 5.10)