KORDA'S | Frequently asked questions

Why ropes do twist?

Ropes are manufactured un way they are neutral, but when retired from the reel or the twist we must manipulate them carefully in order to avoid twists. To get a proper neutral rope ready to use follow the procedure shown in the image.

Twists are mainly caused by the descenders and the rappeling techniques.The speleology devices make the rope follow a pulley path in the same two-dimensions edge.

When the rope path is three-dimensional (as the figure 8 belay device or a dynamic knot) then the rope twists.

It is advised to fully stretch the ropes from time to time in order to keep the rope in a neutral shape.

How a rope should be cleaned?

Ropes should be washed in a regular basis upon its use. It can be washed by hand or by machine. If soap is required it should be a neutral one (Marseille soap type). If the rope it is too stiff, a neutral softener for delicate clothing can be used. In this way the fibres slide better and gain a more pleasant touch.

HAND WASH

For hand washing, in order to get better results, we recommend to use the Korda’s rope brush. The rope must be submerged in cold or lukewarm water, add a little soap and pass the brush from one end to the other and repeat the operation in both directions. If the ropes have a lot of mud, this operation must be repeated several times. Finally rinse thoroughly with water, and during the last rinse you can add a little bit of softener (do not rinse after softening).

MACHINE WASH

For machine washing use a short program and cold water (maximum 30ºC). Spinning is NOT recommended to avoid rope twists.

DRYING

To dry it, place it in a shadowed, dry and ventilated place. It is important to not expose the rope to the sun because it deteriorates the fibres. Do not use a dryer or any other source of heat.

Where ropes should be stored?

Proper rope storage is essential. Their fibers might lose their properties if they get in contact with cleaning products, oils or batteries. Be sure to store your rope in a dark, cool and dry place to keep it from getting damaged by sun, moist and chemicals.

Should we soak speleology or rope access ropes before using them?

All korda’s rope are factory pre-stretched, and then the firs soakning and drying cycle is done. Then it is unnecessary to damp them before their first use. Considering the fact that the most important shrinking occurs with the first contact with water, Korda’s users receive rope that will shrink less than expected during their life span.

What is the difference between the Dana Speleology version rope (white) and the Canyoning version (colors)?

Both versions have exactly the same mechanic structure. Nevertheless the Canyoning version have light colors to be easily spotted underwater and the TOTAL DRY finnish applied is stronger. In this way the rope absorbs less water and consequently has a lower weight gain. This treatment also improves the rope aging process and the wear caused by the constant soaking-drying.

How do we know if a rope is certified?

To know if a rope is certified we must check inside the rope, in the core. All certified ropes are made with an internal tape informing the manufacturer, the certification type, (dynamic, semi-static) the year of manufacture and the material. This is not manadatory in dynamic ropes but recommended to identify the year of manufacture. color cinta interior

Following the Korda’s color chart you caneasily identify the year of manufacture of your rope.

First uses of the rope

A brand new rope requires a major care and attention during its use.

The fibers are new and relaxed, then more sensitive to friction that can generate cuts and burns. With use and aging (especially if in each session it gets wet and then dries up) the fibers compact, gain tension and improve their resistance to abrasion.

As a manufacturer, Korda’s strongly advises to be very careful during the first uses, particularly the first 4-5 occasions.

Frequently asked