The SQUID attachment points are primarily designed for use with carabiners. While these points are also compatible with a variety of other connection methods, direct connections using textiles may have reduced breaking strength due to the SQUID’s chamfered edge. CMC conducted a series of tests to evaluate this potential strength loss and provide a high level summary of the data.
TEST METHOD
A selection of industry soft goods were directly connected to the SQUID in various rigging configurations and pulled to failure. A 1.3 cm (0.5 in) shackle was used as the control to compare the difference between SQUID and a fully rounded attachment point.
The following rigging configurations were evaluated to analyze the breaking strength of various soft goods when directly connected to the SQUID. For Tubular Webbing, Sewn Prusiks, and Texora Black Mambas, connections were rigged in a double girth hitch to simulate typical field methods for using the SQUID to build redundant anchors without added carabiners. For CMC G11, a single line was knotted and pulled to failure.
CMC G11 – Poacher’s Knot
CMC G11 – Figure 8 Follow Through
CMC Tubular Web Loop – Double Girth Hitch
CMC Sewn Prusik – Double Girth Hitch
Texora Black Mamba – Double Girth Hitch
RESULTS
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Results are specific to the materials, loads, redundancy, and rigging practices involved.
SQUID textile connections may have reduced breaking strength relative to a rounded shackle.
Stable connections are preferred to reduce movement along SQUID (dressed hitches, sewn rather than tied prusiks, etc.).
Burrs and sharp points can further reduce textile strength, when in doubt use a carabiner.
Follow best practices for load sharing and redundancy, especially for webbing and cord.
EXAMPLE CONNECTIONS
The following images demonstrate high strength textile connections that meet guidance for redundancy, load sharing, and stability.
WARNINGS
The SQUID attachment points are primarily designed for use with carabiners and are also compatible with a variety of other connection methods. All connections should be evaluated for risk based on the loads, redundancy, and rigging practices involved.
The breaking strength of textiles may be reduced when directly connected to the SQUID. CMC recommends following best practices for redundancy and load sharing when making connections.
Verify there is no excessive wear or indications of damage such as deformation, corrosion, sharp edges, cracks, or burrs. Minor nicks or sharp spots may be smoothed with emery cloth or similar.
