Useful information about swivels

What are swivels and what are they used for in rope systems?

Swivels are rotating connectors positioned between two components of a rope, rescue or rigging system. They compensate for rotational movement and prevent ropes, lanyards or attached loads from twisting uncontrollably during lifting, lowering or retrieval.

SKYLOTEC swivels are used primarily in technical rescue, rope access and arboriculture. They are positioned, for example, between an anchor point and a pulley, on rigging plates or directly on a moving load. Free rotation helps keep the system better aligned and allows it to be operated in a more controlled manner.

What advantages do swivels offer compared with rigid connectors?

Rigid connectors such as karabiners transfer rotational movement directly to the connected ropes and devices. Repeated lifting or lowering can therefore cause ropes to coil, karabiners to twist or pulleys to move out of their favourable load direction.

A swivel decouples this rotation and allows controlled movement under load. This reduces torsion, improves the alignment of the system components and can significantly increase ease of operation. A rotating connector offers clear advantages over a rigid connection, particularly with freely suspended loads, long lifting distances and repeated rotational movement.

When is a swivel particularly useful when retrieving loads?

When retrieving a load, the rope being used can become increasingly twisted due to movement, the load’s centre of gravity or the design of the system. Without compensation, this rotation is transferred to karabiners, pulleys, lanyards and the load itself. This can make operation more difficult and create a confusing system configuration.

A ball-bearing swivel allows the load to align itself independently of the rest of the system. This reduces rope coiling and allows the load to be moved in a more controlled manner. This is relevant, for example, in hauling systems, recovery systems, arboriculture and technical rescue operations.

How are swivels used in rescue and hauling systems?

Swivels are frequently used in rescue systems when people, rescue stretchers or loads may rotate during a lifting or lowering operation. The swivel is integrated at a suitable point between the load and the anchorage system in order to decouple the rotation from the rest of the rope system.

When combined with rigging plates, karabiners, pulleys and rope clamps, they allow clearly organised and mobile hauling systems to be created. However, a swivel does not replace a progress-capture device or pulley. Its sole purpose is to compensate for rotational movement and improve the alignment of the connected components.

What advantages do ball-bearing swivels offer under load?

Ball-bearing swivels are designed to rotate as smoothly as possible even under axial load. This allows them to compensate continuously for rotational movement during lifting or rescue operations without the load first having to be fully released.

The SKYLOTEC models TWIRL, TWISTER and WIB are mounted on axial ball bearings. This supports controlled rotation along the main load direction. The swivel must be loaded along its intended axis and must not be subjected to unfavourable cross-loading or loading over edges.

What are the differences between the TWISTER, TWIRL and WIB?

The SKYLOTEC swivels differ primarily in their load capacity, design and dimensions. The TWISTER is a compact aluminium-alloy swivel with a load capacity of 24 kN. It is suitable for systems requiring a lightweight and space-saving solution.

The TWIRL offers a load capacity of 36 kN and combines a compact design with greater performance reserves. The WIB reaches a load capacity of 40 kN and is therefore designed for particularly demanding requirements within its intended field of use. The selection should not be based solely on the highest load capacity but also on the required space, connection points and system configuration.

When is a swivel required and when is a karabiner sufficient?

A karabiner creates a secure but fundamentally rigid connection between two components. If no significant rotational movement occurs within the system and the connected components remain correctly aligned, an additional swivel is often unnecessary.

A swivel is useful when a load can rotate freely, ropes coil during retrieval or connectors are repeatedly twisted. It complements the karabiner but does not necessarily replace it. Depending on the design, the ends of the swivel are connected to the system using suitable karabiners or other approved connectors.

Which load directions must be considered when using swivels?

Swivels are primarily designed for axial loading along their intended main axis. In this direction, they can withstand the specified forces while continuing to perform their rotational function. Unfavourable cross-loading, loading over edges or jamming between other components can impair their function and load capacity.

Sufficient freedom of movement must therefore be available during installation. The swivel must not become trapped between karabiners, rigging plates or other components. All connected components must also be suitable for at least the loads and load directions occurring within the complete system.

Which standards and load ratings apply to swivels?

The SKYLOTEC swivels in this category are specified in accordance with RFU PPE-R/11.135. Depending on the model, the minimum breaking strength or specified load capacity differs. The specific technical data and manufacturer’s instructions for the respective product are always decisive when making a selection.

The load capacity of a swivel must not be considered in isolation. The permissible performance of the complete system is always determined by its weakest component. Karabiners, anchor points, ropes, pulleys and rigging plates must therefore be assessed together and coordinated with one another.

How do you choose the right swivel for the respective system?

The expected load, existing connection points and available installation space must first be considered when making a selection. A lightweight TWISTER may be sufficient for compact systems. For higher loads or more complex rescue and rigging configurations, the TWIRL or WIB may be the more suitable solution.

The shape and size of the attachment openings, the karabiners being used and the required freedom of movement must also be checked. A SKYLOTEC swivel should be installed so that it can rotate freely and is loaded axially. Only then can it effectively reduce torsion and provide a useful addition to the system configuration.

How are swivels inspected and when must they be withdrawn from use?

Before every use, swivels should be inspected for cracks, deformation, corrosion, severe abrasion and damaged attachment openings. The rotating joint must move freely and evenly. Stiff movement, unusual noises or noticeable play may indicate damage or wear.

After an exceptional load or if there is any doubt about its functionality, the swivel must not continue to be used. The prescribed periodic inspections and the product-specific manufacturer’s instructions must also be observed. Swivels must not be opened, modified or treated with unsuitable lubricants by the user.