When it comes to skydiving, the thrill of freefall is undeniably exciting. However, the excitement would be nothing without the crucial safety measures in place. One of the most important safety elements in skydiving is the packing of the parachute, and that's where the packing materials come into play. Whether you're a novice skydiver or an experienced instructor, understanding and selecting the right packing materials for your parachute is critical for ensuring a safe and successful jump. This article explores the essential packing materials used by parachutists and offers a detailed checklist of items needed for a perfect pack job.
The Importance of Proper Packing Materials
Before we dive into the specific materials, it's important to recognize that parachute packing is not simply about stuffing the chute into the container and calling it a day. It requires precision, care, and the correct tools. The wrong materials or improper packing can lead to equipment malfunction, potentially leading to a life‑threatening situation. Therefore, choosing the right packing materials is crucial for both the performance of the parachute and the safety of the skydiver.
Factors to Consider
When selecting packing materials, several factors should be considered:
- Material Durability : The packing material must be able to withstand the stresses of being repeatedly folded and compressed.
- Weather Conditions : Different materials may be better suited for specific weather conditions (e.g., humidity, temperature).
- Ease of Use : Packing materials should be user‑friendly and promote efficient packing.
Now, let's look at the most common packing materials parachutists use.
Essential Packing Materials for Parachutists
1. Main Parachute
The primary piece of equipment used in skydiving is, of course, the main parachute. The material of the parachute itself is typically made from high‑strength nylon or a similar durable fabric. It's important to inspect the main chute before packing to ensure there are no visible signs of wear and tear.
Key Considerations:
- Fabric Type : Nylon (often ripstop) is favored because of its resistance to tears and rips.
- Size : Choose a parachute that's appropriate for your weight and the type of jump you're doing.
- Inspection : Check the lines for tangling and wear before packing.
2. Reserve Parachute
The reserve parachute is a secondary safety chute used in case of failure of the main chute. It is always packed by a certified rigger and must undergo regular inspections. The packing material should ensure that it can be deployed quickly and effectively in an emergency.
Key Considerations:
- Durability : Reserve parachutes are usually packed with materials that can withstand long periods of storage without degradation.
- Deployment Mechanism : The reserve must be packed in a way that ensures immediate deployment without interference from the main chute.
- Inspection : Like the main chute, the reserve must be checked for any visible damage or issues that could affect deployment.
3. Packing Cloth (also called a "packing mat")
Packing cloth is an essential material used to ensure the parachute is folded correctly. This cloth prevents contamination from dirt, moisture, and other elements that could damage the fabric of the parachute. It also provides a clean and controlled environment for packing.
Key Considerations:
- Size : The packing mat should be large enough to allow the parachute to be arranged properly but not so large that it becomes cumbersome.
- Material : Most packing cloths are made from lightweight fabric that can be easily folded and cleaned.
4. Parachute Deployment Bag
The deployment bag is where the parachute is stored after it's packed. This bag is designed to hold the parachute in a way that allows for smooth deployment once the skydiver exits the aircraft. The material used for the deployment bag is usually a durable nylon or other strong fabric.
Key Considerations:
- Ease of Deployment : The deployment bag should allow for a quick and smooth release of the parachute when the skydiver pulls the ripcord.
- Size and Shape : The deployment bag needs to be the right size for the packed parachute. If it's too tight, it could interfere with deployment; if it's too loose, the parachute may not deploy correctly.
5. Closing Loop
The closing loop is a small but vital piece of equipment used to secure the container once the parachute has been packed inside. This loop is usually made of strong materials like steel or synthetic fibers that ensure the closure will hold until deployment. It is essential to check the loop for wear or damage before each jump.
Key Considerations:
- Strength : The closing loop must be made of strong material to withstand the forces of deployment.
- Security : Make sure the loop is securely fastened to avoid any accidental openings during the jump.
6. Static Line
For certain types of jumps, particularly those performed by novice skydivers or those on military missions, a static line is used to deploy the parachute automatically once the skydiver exits the aircraft. This line is attached to the aircraft and to the parachute, triggering the deployment process as the skydiver moves away from the plane.
Key Considerations:
- Length : The length of the static line must be sufficient to ensure that the parachute is deployed at the correct time.
- Material : The line should be made of durable, flexible material that can withstand the forces of deployment.
7. Closing Pin
The closing pin is used to hold the parachute container closed until it's time for the jump. Once the ripcord is pulled, the pin is released, and the container opens to deploy the parachute. The pin is often made of stainless steel or another corrosion‑resistant material to ensure reliability.
Key Considerations:
- Material : Stainless steel is a popular choice for the closing pin due to its strength and resistance to corrosion.
- Size : The closing pin must be the right size to fit into the container's closure mechanism.
8. Pilot Chute
The pilot chute is a small auxiliary parachute that helps initiate the deployment of the main parachute. The pilot chute is typically packed inside the deployment bag and is used to catch the air and create the necessary drag to open the main chute.
Key Considerations:
- Material : The pilot chute is often made from lightweight nylon fabric to ensure it deploys easily.
- Size : The size of the pilot chute should match the specifications for the main chute to ensure proper deployment.
9. Riser and Harness
The riser and harness are the connection points between the parachute and the skydiver's body. The risers are made from strong materials like webbing or synthetic fiber, and they must be checked for wear and tear before every jump. The harness itself is designed for comfort and security, ensuring the skydiver is securely attached to the parachute during the jump.
Key Considerations:
- Strength : The risers must be able to withstand the forces of freefall and parachute deployment.
- Comfort : The harness should be adjusted for the individual skydiver to ensure a secure and comfortable fit.
The Packing Process
While selecting the right materials is crucial, the packing process itself also requires meticulous attention to detail. Here's a brief outline of the packing steps:
- Inspect All Materials : Before you start, make sure all your materials (main parachute, reserve, packing cloth, etc.) are in good condition.
- Lay Out the Packing Mat : Spread out the packing cloth on a clean, flat surface.
- Pack the Parachute : Carefully fold the parachute, ensuring there are no twists or tangles in the lines. Fold it in such a way that it fits smoothly into the deployment bag.
- Prepare the Deployment Bag : Insert the packed parachute into the deployment bag and ensure it is positioned correctly.
- Secure with Closing Loop and Pin : Fasten the closing loop securely, and insert the closing pin.
- Final Check : Inspect everything one last time, ensuring that all components are correctly positioned and secured.
Conclusion
Choosing the right packing materials is an integral part of ensuring a successful and safe skydive. Parachutists must rely on high‑quality materials that will withstand the stresses of both packing and deployment. Every item, from the main parachute to the deployment bag, plays a role in the parachute's performance, making the selection of packing materials an essential part of the overall preparation process. By adhering to a checklist and following proper packing procedures, skydivers can ensure that their parachutes deploy safely, allowing them to enjoy the thrilling experience of flight without worry.