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Studies of Knot Performance

These versions of papers that appeared earlier on AllAboutKnots have been extensively revised. You can read them singly or in sequence.

Influences on Knot Performance
Four factors work together to determine how a particular knot performs: the laws of mechanics, the structure of the knot, the cordage it is tied in, and its environment and conditions of use.
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Introduction to the Study of Knot Performance
Knot tyers can use the procedures of structural analysis to understand how knots work - an aspect of knot lore that has been largely overlooked.
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Terminology of Knot Performance
Terms devised especially for talking intelligibly about the way knots work.
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Security of a Bowline: How Knots Perform Under a Normal Load
What happens inside a knot when you use it in the ordinary way.
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Distinguishing Knot Security from Knot Stability
Mastering an essential distinction that most people aren't aware of.
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Knot Stability: How Knots Perform Under an Abnormal Load
Learning why some knots maintain their form so that they work effectively while others deform and fail.
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The Breaking Point of Knots
Understanding why most knots break just outside the knots and why others break well inside.
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The Strength of Knots
Tests have shown us how common knots vary in strength, and analysis shows why they vary. But many questions remain.
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Bibliography of Knot Study
Useful sources for knot study.
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Forthcoming Papers

• Comparative Knot Strength
• The Kindliest Knot
• Questions on Knot Strength
• Teaching Knot Strength
• Inventory of Structural Devices
• Questions for Conducting Structural Analysis
• Faulty Illustrations of a Figure Eight Loop
• Everyday Uses of Practical Knots
• Nine Natural Knots
• The Knot Study of Jean Piaget

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