8.4 Activation handle
The activation handle is equipped with a blank cartridge . By
attaching the handle to the coupler at the shoulder strap of the
backpack and then pulling the activation handle, the blank
cartridge will ignite . The explosion pressure travels through the
tube to the puncture unit . There a cartridge containing nitrogen
will be pierced with the pin and the nitrogen is forced through the
pressure tubes to the two airbags where in combination with the
suction and release valve the airbags get inflated . Inflation time is
approx . 2 – 3 seconds!
8.5 Cartridge
The cartridges contain only harmless gas, the same as in our air .
The inside pressure is 300 bar (Carbon cartridge 340 bar) . The
piercing of the cartridge should only occur within the puncture
unit of the ABS-system . Any manipulation at the closure or at the
cartridge can trigger an explosion which may result in a high risk
of injury and or death, including bystanders .
Each cartridge is designed for temperatures from -40ºC to +50ºC
(-40F to +122 F) . Empty cartridges can only be filled by ABS .
The exchange can only be done at an ABS retail shop . Avoid
impacts such as dropping the cartridge .
Depending on the model, the cartridges comply with the
following guidelines:
– Steel cartridge Europe: EG guidelines
– Steel cartridge North America: DOC and TC certified
– Carbon cartridge: EG guidelines
8.6 Carrying system
The authorized carrying systems are identified by the ABS logo .
The various straps and belts comply with the TÜV requirements
for extreme operational demands . The tensile strength for all
weight bearing straps equals 3000N (674lbs) . In order to ensure
that the ABS Avalanche Airbag System stays on the person’s
body during an avalanche, it is imperative that the waist belt,
chest strap and leg straps are properly fastened . The greatest
chance that the ABS Avalanche Airbag to remain on your body
during an Avalanche is if waist belt, chest strap and leg straps
are properly fastened .
9. Storage and cleaning
Make sure before each use that the full cartridge is screwed in
tightly and check the weight as described in steps 1 and 2 of the
Initial Operation . Otherwise you can leave the cartridge attached .
Always make sure that the protective cap is on the cartridge
when the cartridge is not attached to the airbag . It is recommen-
ded to remove the handle after each use . The ABS Avalanche
Airbag should be stored in a dry, rodent free area and away from
children .
Use only soapy water to clean the airbag or the backpack . Do not
use harsh cleaning agents like bleach or OxiCleaner . Do not wash
in a washing machine . Protect the suction and release valve from
water and other liquids .
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Attention:
after cleaning make sure that the system is completely
dry before use – or you risk freezing the components which will
not operate as intended .
10. Transport
Generally you are allowed to take your airbag on the airplane .
The guidelines are outlined in the IATA (International Air Trans-
port Association) reference guide under dangerous goods Table
2 .3A . However, you have to register the ABS-Airbag with your
airline 14 days before your departure . One activation unit is
allowed for each ABS backpack, and the activation handle must
not be installed .
We strongly recommend that you request the IATA guidelines
from your respective service center or that you download them
yourself from our website in order to be able to show them at the
ticket counter . We also recommend that you put the copy of the
IATA guidelines along with your cartridge, activation handle and
backpack in your carry-on luggage . If you are traveling within the
USA you need to comply with FAA rules .
When travelling to the United States please pay attention to
the latest advice on
www.abs-airbag.com
(under
Service/ABS
in planes
).
When you transport the cartridge outside the airbag system the
protective cap must be on the cartridge .
Detailed and updated information on the transport of
ABS packs can be found here:
www.abs-airbag.com
(under
Service/ABS in planes
)
11. Working Life
By adhering to the manufacturer recommended maintenance
schedule of 3 seasons, the working life mainly depends on the
degree of usage and mostly refers to the backpack . When using
the system according to the instructions and on an average of
50 days per season, the ABS-System (not the backpack) can
be expected to function for 10 years . It is important to perform
the suggested practice activation by activating the ABS System
once a year .
12. Disposal
The activation unit is to be returned to the manufacturer for dis-
posal . The avalanche backpack may be recycled or disposed of
with normal household waste .
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