The construction of a zip line is a lot more complicated than many realize. Backyard zip lines can be extremely dangerous if they have not been designed by a professional zip line builder. In addition, standard zip line kits available online are not always the safest option for a secure flying experience. Many factors need to be taken into account when building a zip line. The precise mathematical calculations that are done to ensure rider’s safety can be the difference between lots of fun and an accident. Here at Skyline zip lines, it’s our job to ensure maximum safety and the best experience. To create the premium zip line product we guarantee, we use a 7 step process to ensure success.

Site Discovery

Skylines site discovery is the first step into zip line building. A site discovery ensures a zip line site will be a feasible, profitable, and safe operation. Trained professionals must visit the proposed zip line site to conduct a full walk-through. During this inspection, they plan potential take-off zones, landing zones, and anchor points, ensuring the correct slope angle for a feasible zip line. In addition to the physical aspects, a human geography analysis is required to determine whether the venture will be profitable. This includes considering the site’s current visitation numbers, visitor demographics, and nearby urban markets.

Site Design

Once the site discovery is complete, site design commences. The site design marks the beginning of zip line development and the creation of a business plan for the attraction. During this phase, the team uses schematic drawings to identify and finalize the zip line corridors, potential obstructions, and functional topographical factors. This process ensures the best possible zip line. In addition, the team selects the necessary products and supplies, such as harnesses, catchers, cables, and braking systems. Beyond the physical zip line, the team refines the business plan with profit margins, goals, desired throughput rates, and the construction budget. Once these two processes are complete, the project moves on to the engineering phase of the zip line.

Zip Line Engineering

Zip line engineering is crucial to the zip line building process. The engineering of a zip line ensures it is safe, functional, and reliable, while following all Z98 Ropeway, CSA, and TSSA standards. In addition, careful engineering guarantees adherence to the safest practices. This means no cables around trees or bungee braking systems, and that the correct cable tension, cable length, cable sag, and anchor points are all in place. In addition, Skyline’s technicians run a technical feasibility study checking:

• • Structural force analysis
  • Rider velocities and kinetic forces
  • Studies on crosswinds, tailwinds, and headwinds

<li>Cable specifications, tensions, and safety margins

• Secondary dampening and braking calculations
• Recommended trolleys, catch blocks, and harnesses
• Site-Specific operations and maintenance manuals
• Throughput analysis

From the technical feasibility study, the zip line starts to come together, and the start of construction is nearing.

Fabrication of Parts

Skyline completes the design and engineering of all zip line equipment and structures in Canada and the USA. This process ensures the highest possible quality for every project. The team manufactures all zip line equipment-including trolleys, catchers, and launchers-at Skyline’s machine shop in Canada. They design and engineer the towers, platforms, and structures in Canada, fabricate them locally whenever possible, and assemble everything on site. This ensures the most cost-effective zip line building experience available.

Construction and Installation

After the intensive process of site discovery, design, engineering, equipment selection, and structure fabrication, the next step is to build the zip line. This marks the beginning of the physical construction phase, where all prior planning comes to life. The zip line construction process is a crucial step to the zip line project. Safety is of the highest priority. Everyone on site must be using the safest practices possible and abiding by all safety protocols. In addition, a clear timeline and effective project management are crucial for the success of both the zip line structures and their installation. Last, but not least, is the mindfulness of the natural landscape of the zip line site. Zipline operators should aspire to leave as much of the natural landscape untouched as possible. By doing so, they provide the best canopy tour experience while preserving nature. Furthermore, this approach allows the zip line attraction to blend seamlessly into the natural environment.

Training Support and Operations

Now that the zipline is standing, it is time to learn the ins and outs of the operation. Staff must be trained, and operating safety protocols reviewed. So far, the process has ensured that the line terminates in the correct locations. Additionally, the vertical drop per 100 meters is accurate, and the operation will run smoothly. Finally, this long-awaited attraction is now available for the public to enjoy an experience of a lifetime.

Safety Inspections

After the attraction begins to operate, safety inspections are crucial to the overall safety of guests and staff alike. Yearly site inspections are mandatory to ensure that every aspect of the zipline is in proper working order. In addition, these inspections confirm compliance with the latest safety protocols. As a result, the risk of fatalities, injuries, or lawsuits is minimized. Maintaining the highest safety standards is mandatory to continue zip line operations.