SMC Brake Bar

SMC Brake Bar Stainless Steel 7/8" Grooved Aluminum vs. Stainless Steel? Aluminum is lighter. Aluminum is less costly. Aluminum provides greater levels of friction. Stainless steel is more durable, handles additional heat developed under heavy loads and on longer rappel. Stainless steel allows for a smoother/faster rappel. Stainless steel helps keep ropes “cleaner” and lasts longer. Why use the different styles of bars? Tie-Off Bars provide added friction/control and facilitate lock-off of rope to maintain position and/or hold a load. Bars with the “training” groove are be used as 1st or 2nd bar to help keep ropes aligned properly. Bars with angled slot are designed to “snap” onto rack frame for more secure placement. Bars with straight slot are designed for added safety so that the rack may not be loaded backwards. U shaped stainless steel bars are designed to help dissipate heat and reduce weight. (Note– please refer to warning on the use of U shaped bars with tie-off bars.)