Fasteners and other techno-gadgets

[angus]

Hi all

A long time since I posted ...

Anyway, the following links about a so-called "revolutionary" new type of fastener may be of interest to you tech types out there:

http://www.forbes.com/forbes/2005/0919/066_print.html

http://www.itwbuildex.com/410tapcon.htm etc etc

Although the current product lines available may not be suitable for anchors on pitches, the technology seems interesting.

On a different note ... those who know me know I live in a cave-less country although I do some aboveground rope work. However, just got back from a familiy holiday in Cape Verde islands where I managed to do a couple of (albeit horizontal) lava tubes! First time underground in approx 20 years!!

Best wishes

Angus

[Scott McCrea]

Welcome back, Angus! I've been wondering what hole you were hiding in.

[angus]

Hi Scott - good to be back

Found this about special rope that can be monitored electronically. Electronic load and wear monitoring, pre-failure detection and shock-load counting. Sounds excellent (if not expensive. The company is looking for development partners so I hope some of the caving/climbing rope manufacturers get involved.

http://www.squid-labs.com/projects/erope/index.html

http://www.squid-labs.com/projects/erop ... 040308.pdf

Hmmm ... will put this in the Rope post as well.

Angus