Mechanical Advantage Archives

Building a 4:1 Mechanical Advantage System Using Two Double Pulleys and a Prusik

Lance Piatt / Blog, Designing Your Processes, Mechanical Advantage

“Alright, what we’re building here is a 4:1 mechanical advantage system—simple, clean, and efficient. We’re using two double pulleys and a prusik to get the job done. We’ll start with our anchor. This could be a bombproof point—say, a rigging plate attached to an artificial high directional or a tree if we’re in the field. […]

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Petzl Twin Release Kit

Lance Piatt / Blog, Industry, Mainline Systems and Operations, Mechanical Advantage, Petzl, Pulleys & Mechanical Advantage

The Petzl TWIN RELEASE KIT is a pre-assembled, ready-to-use 4:1 hauling and lowering system, specifically designed for work access and rescue in industrial environments. This system is ideal for vertical work and allows for easy lowering and hauling of loads, which is particularly useful in confined spaces. It can also assist in tilting and orienting a litter

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3 Essential Skills Every Rope Rescue Student Must Master

Lance Piatt / Anchoring, Anchors, Blog, Mechanical Advantage, Safe Practices

3 Essential Skills Every Rope Rescue Student Must Master Rope rescue is a high-risk, high-reward discipline where failure is not an option. Whether you’re performing a rescue or training for one, there are 3 essential skills every rope rescue student must master to ensure safety and success. These core competencies—anchors, mechanical advantage systems, and critical

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Basic mechanical advantage systems enable efficient lifting with simple pulleys. Learn the essentials of the 3:1 Z-rig for safe rescues - How is Weight Redistributed Through a 3:1 Mechanical Advantage System? - Eccentric Progress Capture in Mechanical Advantage Systems

How is Weight Redistributed Mechanical Advantage Systems?

Lance Piatt / Mechanical Advantage, Minimalist Mountain and Climber Rescue, Pulley Systems, Pulleys & Mechanical Advantage

How is Weight Redistributed Through Mechanical Advantage Systems? A 3:1 mechanical advantage system, also known as a Z-rig, is a fundamental tool in technical rope rescue that enables rescuers to lift heavy loads with significantly less effort. But how exactly is the weight redistributed in this system, and what forces are acting on the pulleys,

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Patient Packaging and Raise/Lower Techniques

Lance Piatt / Artificial High Directional AHD, Blog, CMC Clutch by Harken Industrial, Designing Your Processes, Harken Industrial, Mainline Systems and Operations, Mechanical Advantage, Portable Anchors, Principles of Learning

Patient Packaging and Raise/Lower Techniques: Building Essential Skills for Technical Rescue Technical rescue often involves navigating challenging terrains, high-risk environments, and critical medical conditions. One of the most essential skills for any rescue team is mastering patient packaging and raise/lower techniques. These practices ensure the patient is secure, safe, and stable during extrication, while also

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Mastering Mainline Systems

Lance Piatt / Blog, Mainline Systems and Operations, Mechanical Advantage, Online Training Education, Pulleys & Mechanical Advantage, Twin Tension Rope System / 208 Comments

Mastering Mainline Systems Mastering Mainline Systems is about having the ability to effectively raise and lower a mainline system is essential in rescue operations, where safety, efficiency, and control are paramount. At the heart of this capability lies a deep understanding of system design, pre-planning, and mechanical principles. Mastery of these elements ensures not only

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Horizontal Systems Gear

Lance Piatt / Arizona Vortex, Blog, CMC Rescue, General Rigging, Highline Rigging, Mechanical Advantage, Portable Anchors, Pulley Systems, Pulleys & Mechanical Advantage, Rescue Baskets

Taglines Taglines are used in horizontal rope systems to control, stabilize, or maneuver a load laterally across a gap or down a slope. They are often simple tensioned lines attached to a load, providing directional control. Purpose: Taglines ensure the load moves along a predetermined path, reducing the chance of unwanted swinging or collisions with

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CSR2 Pulley System for Confined Space Rescue

Lance Piatt / Arizona Vortex, Blog, CMC Rescue, Mechanical Advantage, Portable Anchors

Confined Space Rescue (CSR): Navigating Tight Quarters with Precision Confined space rescues are among the most challenging scenarios faced by rope rescue professionals. Limited access, restricted movement, and the need for precise rigging all combine to demand an advanced level of skill and specialized equipment. In such environments, the CSR2 Pulley System emerges as a

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A Mechanical Prusik

Lance Piatt / Ascend - Descend, Ascending and Descending Systems, Blog, Designing Your Processes, FAQ-Frequently Asked Questions, Knot Passing, Mechanical Advantage, Prusik Strength and Use

Petzl Tibloc: A Mechanical Prusik Revolutionizing Rope Systems The Petzl Tibloc is a compact, lightweight mechanical rope-grabbing device often regarded as a mechanical Prusik. Its efficiency, ease of use, and versatility make it a valuable tool for rescue professionals, climbers, and technical riggers. This article explores how the Tibloc functions, its applications in mechanical advantage

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Prusik Hitches in Mechanical Advantage

Lance Piatt / Blog, Designing Your Processes, Knots, Bends & Hitches, Mainline Systems and Operations, Mechanical Advantage, Prusik Strength and Use

Understanding Prusik Hitches in Mechanical Advantage Systems: Friction, Efficiency, and Real-World Use The Prusik hitch is a fundamental tool in technical rope systems, renowned for its simplicity, versatility, and reliability. However, its use in mechanical advantage (MA) systems often sparks debate, particularly around the topic of friction and efficiency. This article delves into the nuances

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