A ganged haul system refers to a setup where multiple hauling systems are linked or “ganged” together to achieve a higher mechanical advantage or to divide the load between multiple teams or individuals. This technique is particularly useful in technical rescue, industrial rigging, or situations requiring the movement of heavy loads over long distances or challenging terrain.
Key Features of a Ganged Haul System
- Increased Mechanical Advantage:
- By combining multiple hauling systems, such as a 3:1 and a 2:1, the overall mechanical advantage is compounded. For example, a ganged system can provide a 6:1 or greater advantage depending on the configuration.
- This setup allows rescuers to move heavier loads with less physical effort.
- Load Distribution:
- Linking hauling systems distributes the load among multiple anchors, ropes, or teams, reducing stress on individual components and increasing the overall safety of the system.
- Adaptability:
- Ganged haul systems can be customized to the needs of the operation, whether it’s a high-angle rescue, a confined space scenario, or a long horizontal haul.
- Redundancy:
- The system inherently offers backup in case of failure of one hauling component, increasing the reliability of the operation.
Components of a Ganged Haul System
- Primary Hauling Systems:
- These are the individual mechanical advantage systems (e.g., 3:1, 2:1) that are linked together. Each system typically uses pulleys, prusiks, or ascenders.
- Anchor Points:
- Strong and reliable anchor points are critical for the success of a ganged haul system. They must be capable of bearing the combined load from all linked systems.
- Connecting Hardware:
- Carabiners, swivels, and rigging plates are often used to link the individual systems together efficiently and safely.
- Progress Capture Devices:
- Devices like prusiks, Petzl Rescucender, or CMC MPDs are essential for capturing progress and preventing the load from slipping back.
Applications of Ganged Haul Systems
- High-Angle Rescues:
- Often used when raising or lowering a litter with a patient and attendant over a cliff or steep incline. The ganged system reduces the effort required and ensures smooth operation.
- Long Hauls:
- When moving loads across large horizontal distances, such as in a trackline system, the reduced effort of a ganged haul system becomes invaluable.
- Confined Space Operations:
- In tight spaces where multiple teams must coordinate, a ganged haul system provides the necessary mechanical advantage while maintaining control.
Considerations for Using Ganged Haul Systems
- Complexity:
- Adding multiple systems increases complexity. Proper training and understanding of the mechanics are crucial to avoid operational errors.
- Friction Management:
- Friction can reduce the theoretical mechanical advantage of the system. Using high-efficiency pulleys and minimizing rope bends helps mitigate this.
- Rope Management:
- Ganged systems involve longer rope lengths and require careful management to avoid tangling and ensure smooth operation.
- Load Distribution:
- Anchors and ropes must be rated for the combined load, accounting for potential dynamic forces during operation.
Training and Resources
Proper training is essential for the effective and safe use of ganged haul systems. Courses and resources like those offered at Rigging Lab Academy provide in-depth knowledge on advanced rigging techniques, including ganged haul systems.
Recommended Articles:
- Mechanical Advantage Systems and Applications
- Optimizing Hauling Systems for Technical Rescues
- Understanding Friction in Rigging Systems
Final Thoughts
A ganged haul system provides a versatile and powerful tool in the arsenal of rescue professionals and rigging specialists. While its benefits in terms of mechanical advantage and load distribution are significant, the added complexity underscores the importance of proper training and practice. When designed and executed correctly, ganged systems can make the impossible seem effortless.
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