Glossary term
What is Friction device?
Short answer
A friction device is a tool, often a post or wrap fixed near the base of a tree, that lets a worker control a rope while lowering heavy wood.
Friction device, explained for tree service owners
A friction device is gear that adds drag to a rope so one worker can slow and stop a heavy piece as it is lowered. It is often mounted on the trunk near the base, or on a nearby tree, and the rope is wrapped around it. More wraps mean more friction and an easier hold. Without one, a person would have to hold the whole weight with their hands, which is unsafe. For a tree service, a friction device makes rigging practical on tight jobs, such as removing a big oak next to a house. Crews inspect the rope and the device before every job and replace worn parts.
Related terms
- Rigging
Rigging is the use of ropes, blocks, slings and friction devices to lower cut tree pieces to the ground in a controlled way.
- Aerial lift
An aerial lift is any machine that raises a worker on a platform, such as a bucket truck or a lift mounted on tracks.
- Outriggers
Outriggers are extendable legs on a crane or bucket truck that spread the weight and keep the machine level and steady.
- Pole saw
A pole saw is a saw on a long pole that cuts high limbs from the ground, so the worker does not need to climb.
- Rigging block
A rigging block is a pulley used in a tree to change the direction of a rope and reduce strain while lowering cut pieces.
- Throw line
A throw line is a light cord with a small weight, thrown over a high branch to pull a climbing rope into the tree.
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