Using ratchet straps for rigging

[emr]

When using ratchet straps to help hold together a split tree, where is the best place to put them? Do you place them along the split, above the split, or both? I am asking in terms of removals, not inplace of cabling or COBRA.

 

[Colin]

I would set them as high as possible for the first strap, and around the split with the second.

 

[TMW]

It depends on the size of the split, the species of tree, the condition of the the tree, lean, etc. Ratchet straps are cheap insurance. We have used up to 7 on one lightning struck pine before.

You can see the setup in the TCIA "Hazard Tree - Risk Assessment & Mitigation for Tree Workers" case study.

You can't be too alive and dead is forever.

 

[TreeCo]

We use 20ft., 10,000lb. binding straps. Often we can get two wraps with one binder doubling it's strength.

 

[TheTreeSpyder]

If tree is cracked and still strong wood; place as far apart as possible that still pinches. If not strong wood; kinda do same and fortify weakness too. Make so can't shift any, 1 strong cylinder. Straps can be each others pivot and leverage along the length; and compressive firming at their own loacation inward.

Tighten straps down. As drum fills higher and higher, you are losing leverage. Unlock and pull out what ya can off drum; and retighten (without losing tension too much) to now have more cranking leverage. Can also drive wedges under tightened strap where it isn't quite touching. This will give contacting/compressing support and tighten strap more. Can also tighten with 2 sticks under spaced ~6" apart, to give room to drive wedge under; to give more firming contact on certain area. Wedge leverage will be hammer x speed x (wedge ramp to rise - the space for sticks). So, use small diameter sticks.