Glider winch launch cable

Glider Winch Launch

This textile cable is specially designed for glider winch launching.

Lighter yet stronger in tensile strength than steel for an equivalent diameter cable, this rope is a high-performance technical product.
The HMPE rope spools easily around the winch drum, is manageable and flexible.

Winch launching a glider is more economical and practical than an aero-tow. With this cable, you gain even more in performance and ease of use compared to steel.

The cable should be approximately the same length as the takeoff runway: we perform custom cuts, usually between 800 and 1,500m. Possible to go up to 3,000m of rope.

Pilot Safety

A steel cable, frequently used for glider winching, can be dangerous if it breaks.

This textile cable, on the other hand, has no sharp metallic parts, nor metallic strands that can unravel, even if cut.
In case of breakage, the HMPE rope does not create a "whiplash" effect, which is dangerous for glider pilots or people near the takeoff runway at the aerodrome.

Usage Advice

If you are replacing a steel cable on your winch with this textile rope, be sure to thoroughly clean the winch drum: remove any pieces, splinters, or remaining fibers from the old steel cable.
These splinters could damage the HMPE rope and render it unusable.

Technical Specifications

• HMPE synthetic textile fiber.
• Custom length: up to 3,000m.
• Diameter: 5mm.
• Breaking strength: 2.2 tons (2,200 daN).
• Color: grey, available in yellow or orange upon request.
• Spliced at each end to facilitate attachment.
• Optional: possibility to sheath the splices.
• Rot-proof.
• High resistance to breakage and abrasion.
• Lighter than steel and stronger at equivalent diameter.