The AZTEK is an extremely versatile tool to complete a knot pass through a system. The AZTEK can be used for a knot pass on a raise or lower and can be used on a Twin Tension Rope System (TTRS) or a Dedicated Main/Dedicated Belay (DMDB).
In the video, the team demonstrates how to perform a knot pass using an AZTEK on a TTRS lowering system with dual CLUTCHes.
AZTEK piggyback haul system
The AZTEK is what is referred to as a piggyback haul system. A piggyback haul system or “pig rig” is an independent rope system that attaches to the main line. While this video demonstrates using an AZTEK for the knot pass, a built on-site or other pre-rigged mechanical advantage systems can be used if there is a progress capture on the piggyback system that is used. AZTEK should be attached to the anchor so that the carabiner attached to the CLUTCH is never opened
A 3:1 with a progress capture built with a separate rope or a CSR2 Pulley System would be examples of this. It is important that the AZTEK or any other piggyback haul system be attached to the anchor so that the potentially load-bearing carabiner attached to the CLUTCH, MPD, I’D, etc is never opened (if required) until properly backed up.
The video is intended to be an adjunct to competent hands-on instruction. For more information about open enrollment or customized contract Rope Rescue and Confined Space Rescue classes please visit the CMC School website.
Step by Step
- Stop lowering when the knot is 18 inches or 1/2 a meter from the CLUTCH
- Lock-off CLUTCH on the knotted rope
- Extend the AZTEK approximately 12 inches or 1/3 meter
- Tie a separate prusik hitch in front of the CLUTCH and attach the AZTEK
- Attach the other end of the AZTEK to the anchor
- Check the system
- Continue lowering with the CLUTCH on the knotted rope until the AZTEK has taken the load
- Unlock the CLUTCH, remove the knotted rope and rig the rope so the knot is in past the CLUTCH
- Make sure the CLUTCH side plate is fully closed
- Lock the CLUTCH
- Lower with the AZTEK and second rope until the CLUTCH on the knotted rope is loaded
- Disconnect the AZTEK and additional prusik from the system, unlock the CLUTCH
- Continue the lower with both ropes