PERFECT DESCENT
The Perfect Descent system is a belay device used in recreational climbing, both in indoor gyms and on portable walls or climbing courses. It is installed in the place where the belayer normally positions themselves, allowing the climber to have their hands free. Once the climber is released from the wall, the system will automatically bring the climber to the ground at a constant speed, eliminating the need for a belay device. The line automatically retracts into the unit, allowing for repeated descents. It is important to note that the Perfect Descent system is not designed for lead climbing. Additionally, the system speed models can be used for speed climbing, and the 16.1 m (53 ft) speed model can be used in world record events in combination with an IFSC approved climbing wall.
The main difference between the Speed Drive and Direct Drive systems is that the former has a higher retraction speed of the lanyard. This allows climbing at high speeds while always maintaining the security that the auto belay will always be at the climber's height.
The Perfect Descent auto belay is an automatic belay device that uses a lanyard and internal braking mechanism to secure the climber during ascent and descent. The device can be used anywhere a reliable and safe climbing lifeline is needed and is attached to a solid structure. Before starting the climb, the climber secures themself to the lifeline. If the climber falls or loses control, the auto belay will bring them to a smooth and safe stop.
Yes, the Perfect Descent auto belay can be used for outdoor climbing as long as it is installed according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Perfect Descent devices can be installed on walls or solid structures, either in a climbing gym or in the home, and can be used in conjunction with other climbing equipment.
The Perfect Descent system uses a patented speed control technology that allows the user to adjust the speed of descent, ensuring a safer and more personalised climbing and descending experience. As well as this, the system is easy to set up and use, making it ideal for climbers of all levels of experience.
Simultaneous user capability depends on the specific Perfect Descent device model, but typically ranges from 1-3 climbers per device.
We use high-quality, high-strength materials such as aircraft-grade aluminum and stainless steel in the manufacturing of our devices to ensure durability and safety.
Should the climber fall while using the Perfect Descent, the device will automatically stop and bring the climber to a safe halt. Additionally, the system includes an emergency release mechanism for situations where the climber needs to be released quickly.
The Perfect Descent's speed control technology is based on a hydraulic system that regulates the rate of descent through the use of variable flow valves and a control piston. This guarantees a constant and safe descent speed, regardless of the climber's weight.
The Perfect Descent uses a mechanical brake that is automatically activated in the event the climber loses control or falls. The brake is smooth and gradual, providing a safe, jolt-free stop.
The Perfect Descent auto belay has a maximum load capacity of 140 kg (310lbs) and a minimum weight of 11.5 kg (25lbs), making it suitable for most climbers.
The Perfect Descent undergoes rigorous safety testing to ensure it meets industry safety standards. Load and drop tests are carried out, as well as corrosion and wear resistance tests. One of the drop tests involves the use of the maximum allowable weight of 310 pounds (140 kg) from a height greater than 6 metres, ensuring that the minimum and maximum times are met during the course of the fall.
Descent speed automatically adjusts based on weight and rope pull to maintain a safe and controlled descent speed.
The Perfect Descent auto belay is suitable for installation on walls or solid structures, and must be used in conjunction with a harness and locking carabiners. The climber's belaying process is similar to that of a traditional climbing rope, where the climber's harness is connected to the auto belay's lifeline using locking carabiners. This allows the auto belay to function as an automatic belay device providing an additional safety system for the climber while ascending and descending the climb.
The Perfect Descent auto belay can be adapted to different user needs and to different wall lengths or solid structures where it will be installed, to ensure that the length of the lifeline is sufficient in any case.
ANCHORAGE AND ORIENTATION POINTS
The Perfect Descent auto belay may only be installed using the mounting points on the top of the device. The device must be installed vertically using one of the two methods indicated in the following illustration. It can be installed with a single or double mounting point. For single point mounting, a single connector is attached to the central anchor point, with a secondary anchor unloaded, as shown below. The use of a backup anchor is recommended. For two-point mounting, the connectors are attached to the exterior anchor points, one on each side, as indicated below. Two-point mounting can cause accelerated wear of the lanyard and opening.
The brake mechanism on all 230 Perfect Descent models is designed for use in outdoor environments and is sealed to protect it from moisture. However, if moisture is allowed to come in contact with other components, this could decrease the life of the Perfect Descent climbing system. The Perfect Descent climbing system has an opening where water can enter the internal mechanism. By correctly installing the Perfect Descent climbing system with the opening facing downwards, moisture will be primarily evacuated through the protective casing or drained through the opening. Therefore, it is crucial that the Perfect Descent climbing system is installed in an upright position to ensure proper function and durability.
Of course, as long as you follow all the manufacturer's instructions and take all the necessary precautions to ensure your safety.
"In general, it is safe for children and adults to use the Perfect Descent auto belay. However, it is important to note that the use of auto belays requires specific skills and knowledge in climbing and mountaineering. Therefore, previous experience is recommended in climbing and mountaineering, and you should be familiar with the proper techniques and safety measures before using a Perfect Descent auto belay. Additionally, it is important to understand the load limitations of the auto belay, since its maximum load capacity is 140 kg and its minimum capacity is 11.5 kg. This means that the auto belay is not suitable for people weighing more than 140kg or less than 11.5kg."
If your auto belay makes noise when descending, it is important to take steps to correct the problem before continuing to use it. Check the condition of the cable and lubricate it properly. If the problem persists, a sound recording must be made and sent to the technical service to evaluate the state of the auto belay.
It is strongly recommended that only those experienced and knowledgeable in climbing and mountaineering use a Perfect Descent brand auto belay, whether on a public-use municipal climbing wall or elsewhere. Although there may not be an explicit requirement for trained personnel to use it, it is important to note that the use of this device requires specific climbing and mountaineering skills and knowledge. Therefore, participating in manufacturer-specific courses and training can further improve the safety and effectiveness of the device.
Each auto belay has a visible label on one of its sides, indicating the date of manufacture and the scheduled date for its next annual inspection. An example image of the label is shown below:
Class A - manufacturing date of July 2020 or later. Class A auto belays require periodic recertification at least once every 12 months. Class C - manufacturing date of June 2020 or earlier.
Class C auto belays require periodic recertification at least once every 24 months.
Failure to service your Perfect Descent auto belay can lead to increased risk of failure, loss of safety, reduced lifespan, braking mechanism malfunction, and loss of equipment warranty. It is important to follow the manufacturer's recommendations and perform proper maintenance to ensure safe use and prolong the life of the auto belay.
During the maintenance service of your Perfect Descent device, the following actions will be carried out:
- Visual assessment: A thorough visual assessment of the auto belay will be carried out for any signs of wear, damage or any obvious problems.
- Opening of the device: The device will be opened to allow access to all its internal components.
- Disassembly of all auto belay components: All auto belay components, such as pulleys, braking mechanism, locking system, among others, will be carefully disassembled.
- Verification of all components: Each component will be thoroughly inspected to determine its state of operation and if it meets the required technical specifications.
- Replacement of deteriorated components: If any component is found to be deteriorated or does not meet the technical specifications, it will be replaced with a new one that is compatible with the auto belay.
- Tests to verify proper operation: Once all components are checked and re-installed, extensive tests will be carried out to ensure that the auto belay is working properly. These tests will include braking, blocking, fluidity in the movement of the rope and any other aspect relevant to the performance of the device.
- By performing all these actions during the maintenance service, the aim is to ensure that your Perfect Descent auto belay is in optimum operating condition, that all components are in good condition and that it meets the required technical specifications. This will give you greater security and confidence when using the device during your climbing activities."
Check the state of the lanyard does not have visible deterioration, excess fuzz or unstitched sections. The 2 kg test should also be carried out to ensure that the device correctly gathers in the lanyard.