RE: [Paddlewise] throw bag construction

> >From: "Shawn W. Baker" <baker_at_montana.com>
> 
snip
> >
> >If it's the stuff I'm thinking about, it is kernmantle 
> construction, or
> >at least braid-over-braid, so it has a strong core under a durable
> >sheath.  Should be perfect for a tow rope.  I'm thinking about just
> >getting the 1/4" 30 lb. work/300 lb. breaking strength 
> stuff--think it's
> >sufficient for towing purposes.  (I don't plan to use it for 
> whitewater
> >rescues!)
> 
Then Phil responded:
> I'm not an engineer (nor do I play one on TV), but do you 
> think that's 
> strong enough? Given that a paddler alone may weigh 150lbs or 
> more, plus the 
> weight of the boat and gear, could bring you to the working 
> load of 300lbs. 
> before you even deal with a dynamic load (boats on either 
> side of a long 
> swell, the jerk on the line as the towing boat comes up to 
> speed and begins 
> to haul the towee) etc. etc.
> 
> Philip Torrens
> N49°16' W123°06'
>

The thought that went through my mind was, "Gee, it would really S#_at_k to be
towing an injured friend through some tough water and have that lightweight
line break."  Something else to remember is that as lines age they
deteriorate from sunlight, being walked on, salt crystals, etc.  I'd want
the added security of a greater breaking strength and sacrifice the few
extra ounces and cubic inches....

Didn't one of the Michaels on the list (Noyes, Nevrodosky??) do some fairly
involved calculations a while ago regarding possible load factors involved
in towing situations?

Dave Seng
Juneau, Alaska  
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