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Why is there no S/M size in the Kantega 2 and Ascent model ranges?

In the UP Performance Series we have launched the S/M size to ensure smaller steps between the sizes. In the high performance (DHV 2, 2-3 and Open) classes, optimal wing loading is important to guarantee that every pilot experiences the very high performance that these wings have to offer. In the FUN&EASY series wing loading is less significant, mainly due to different design of the canopy and the use of a slightly different profile. Thus the FUN&EASY Series wings will have very good performance within a larger weight range/size.

 

We have however expanded the standard glider size range with an XL to ensure that also heavier pilots can benefit from flying a certified UP wing.

 

Why has UP begun using Dyneema instead of the usual Aramid line material?

The new UP Dyneema lines were first introduced on the Trango 2. We chose this line material because it sets a new standard in the two most important areas; strength/diameter and stretch resistance. For the Trango 2, Summit 3 and Kantega 2 we use the following, industrially pre-stretched line diamters:

Riser lines: 1.5mm

Middle lines: 1.3mm

Canopy lines: 1.1mm

 

DHV distinguishes between two different breaking loads, new and aged. These values are determined by the DHV. Submitting the lines to a 5000 bends cycle, where the tested line is bent 180 degrees 5000 times, simulates the aging. The strength of Aramid lines deteriorates dramatically following this test (see the example here below) whereas the new Dyneema lines hardly loose strength at all:

Cousin 989 1.5mm: New 158.5kgs, old 185.9kgs

Cousin 989 1.3mm: New 91,5kgs, old 92.7kgs

Cousin 989 1.1mm: New 91.1kgs, old 89kgs

(all values are averages for the tested batch)

 

As you will notice the 1.3mm line is a bit out of line. This has to do with the testing method. Lines always break in the loops, which means the middle lines lead a very protected life, being as they are looped into their partners at both ends.

To ensure that we had plenty of strength built into our system we let the DHV test the Trango 2 up to a pilot weight of 155kgs, and no damage could be observed.

 

Aramid aging test results:

We tested the Cousin Superaram 988 in the 1.8mm dimension. After 5000 bend cycles the breaking load had dropped from its 200kgs New value to 85.4kgs.