ISC Wales has provided an update on its ongoing investigation into reports of performance fade and slippage experienced by some users of the REFLEX mechanical hitch device.
As the Australian distributor of ISC products, CSP Distribution is sharing this information to ensure REFLEX users have access to the latest findings from the manufacturer.
What ISC Has Found So Far
Since their previous communication, ISC has continued to investigate reported performance concerns by reviewing user feedback, evaluating returned devices, and conducting extensive testing and analysis.
ISC advises that rope condition, device condition, contamination, and operating environment all influence the performance of any mechanical hitch device. Through their investigation, they have found that some reported performance concerns can be resolved by addressing one or more of these factors.
However, ISC has also received a small number of devices that continued to exhibit performance fade despite appropriate rope and device management.
Upon examining these returned devices, ISC identified visible wear on the upper links, the critical rope-engaging components responsible for arresting movement. Accelerated wear of these components was the common characteristic observed across the affected devices.
Importantly, ISC states that its investigation has found no evidence of manufacturing defects, component tolerance issues, or assembly concerns. Instead, the wear observed on the rope-engaging components appears to be the common factor associated with the reported performance fade.
Factors That May Increase Wear
According to ISC’s testing and analysis, certain operating conditions can significantly increase wear rates, including:
- Extended descents
- Repeated high-speed descents
- Use without additional friction where appropriate
- Operation in dirty, abrasive, or contaminated environments
In some cases, this accelerated wear may reduce device performance and result in a device requiring retirement earlier than its time in service alone would suggest.
What REFLEX Users Should Do
ISC recommends that users regularly inspect their REFLEX devices and closely monitor performance.
Particular attention should be paid to:
- Reduced grabbing performance
- Increased tendency to slip
- Any noticeable signs of performance fade
- Visible wear on critical rope-engaging components
Users should not rely solely on the age or time-in-service of the device when assessing its condition.
If a device exhibits performance degradation that cannot be resolved through cleaning, inspection, maintenance, or by addressing rope and environmental conditions, ISC advises that the device should be removed from service.
Ongoing Investigation
ISC has advised that its investigation remains ongoing and that it continues to work directly with affected users while evaluating long-term solutions.
CSP Distribution will continue to share updates as further information becomes available from ISC Wales.
If you have experienced performance fade, unexpected slippage, or have concerns regarding the condition or performance of your REFLEX device, please contact us so we can assist and facilitate communication with ISC where required.
For any questions regarding your REFLEX device, please contact the CSP Distribution team.
