Useful information about accessory cords

What are accessory cords and what are they used for?

Accessory cords are versatile auxiliary ropes with a small diameter that are used in rope access, arboriculture, technical rescue, mountaineering and numerous industrial applications. Unlike low-stretch working ropes, they are not used as the main rope for ascent or descent, but instead perform supporting functions within a rope or rescue system.

SKYLOTEC accessory cords are suitable for applications including Prusik knots, securing equipment, auxiliary lines, rigging applications and setting up hauling systems. Depending on their diameter, material and construction, they perform different tasks and provide a useful addition to professional safety and rescue systems.

What is the difference between accessory cords and low-stretch ropes?

Low-stretch ropes are designed as load-bearing working ropes for ascent, descent, work positioning and rescue. They comply with the relevant standards and are approved for use with descenders, rope clamps or rescue devices.

Accessory cords, by contrast, have significantly smaller diameters and are used for supporting applications. They do not replace a working rope and must not be used for applications that require a low-stretch kernmantle rope. Their strengths lie instead in their versatility, low weight and flexible use within professional rope systems.

What are accessory cords used for in Prusik knots?

One of the best-known uses of accessory cords is the Prusik knot. The accessory cord is tied around a working rope to create a friction hitch and, depending on the system being used, can provide safety, positioning or a simple progress-capture function.

For reliable operation, the diameters of the accessory cord and the rope being used must be compatible. The material, knot configuration and manufacturer’s instructions are equally important. A suitable accessory cord should therefore always be selected according to the intended application.

Which accessory cords are suitable for rescue and rigging?

In technical rescue and rigging, accessory cords frequently perform supporting functions. They are used, for example, for auxiliary connections, material transport, Prusik backups or as part of certain hauling system configurations. Their low weight and compact construction make them easy to transport and flexible to use.

SKYLOTEC accessory cords are available in different diameters and are suitable for numerous professional applications. The version that may be used always depends on the load, system configuration and the respective manufacturer’s approvals.

Which diameters are available for accessory cords?

Accessory cords are available in different diameters, each intended for different applications. Thinner accessory cords are particularly suitable as auxiliary lines or for lightweight material applications, while larger diameters are often used for Prusik knots or more heavily loaded supporting functions.

SKYLOTEC offers accessory cords in several diameters. The choice depends on the intended application, the required strength and the working rope being used. A larger diameter does not automatically mean greater suitability for every application. The interaction of all components is always decisive.

What advantages do kernmantle accessory cords offer?

Like low-stretch working ropes, many accessory cords consist of a load-bearing core and a protective sheath. The core carries most of the load, while the sheath reduces abrasion and external influences.

This construction provides high strength together with good flexibility and handling. Particularly in applications involving frequent knotting, such as Prusik knots or auxiliary connections, a high-quality kernmantle construction offers advantages in terms of wear and performance in use.

Which standards apply to accessory cords?

Professional accessory cords generally comply with the requirements of EN 564. This standard covers accessory cords for mountaineering and comparable applications and specifies requirements including construction and minimum strength.

Despite their high strength, accessory cords must not automatically be used as personal lanyards or working ropes. Product-specific standards and manufacturer’s approvals apply to fall protection applications and must always be observed.

When are accessory cords used for material transport?

Accessory cords are highly suitable for hauling tools, equipment bags or smaller items of equipment. Their low weight makes them easy to transport, and they take up significantly less space than working ropes.

It must be noted that material lines are not intended for securing or moving people. Only ropes and rescue systems approved for this purpose may be used for rescuing people, work positioning or ascent and descent.

How are accessory cords inspected and when must they be replaced?

Before every use, accessory cords should be checked for cuts, chafing, sheath damage, hardening or thermal exposure. Areas that are frequently knotted are subject to increased wear and should be inspected regularly.

Damaged or heavily worn accessory cords must not continue to be used. The maximum service life, storage conditions and manufacturer’s instructions must also be observed. Only faultless products with documented inspections should be used for safety-relevant applications.

How do you choose the right accessory cord?

The selection depends on the field of use, diameter, material and intended load. Different requirements apply to Prusik knots, rigging, material transport and auxiliary applications. Compatibility with the working rope being used must also be considered.

SKYLOTEC accessory cords complement professional rope, rescue and rigging systems with versatile auxiliary ropes for a wide range of applications. Selecting the right cord creates safe, efficient system solutions tailored to the respective application.