Which types of materials are carabiners made from?

Carabiners are primarily made from either aluminum or steel, which provides them with the necessary strength and durability for various applications, particularly in climbing and rescue operations.

Aluminum carabiners are lightweight and commonly used for activities that require reducing weight, such as climbing or rescue systems where every ounce counts. They offer excellent tensile strength sufficient for most recreational and some professional uses.

Steel carabiners, on the other hand, are significantly stronger than aluminum and are suited for heavy-duty applications, including industrial uses where safety and load-bearing capacity are critical. Their robustness makes them ideal for scenarios with high impact or heavy loads.

Among the options, the inclusion of both aluminum and steel captures the range of carabiner options available in the market, each serving specific needs based on their material properties. This versatility is crucial for rope rescue technicians, as choosing the appropriate carabiner can significantly impact the safety and success of a rescue operation.

The other options are limited in scope: solely steel would omit the lightweight advantages of aluminum, and exclusively aluminum overlooks the strength offered by steel. Plastic and rubber are also not suitable materials for load-bearing carabiners, as they lack the necessary strength and durability required in high-stress situations.