Alpine ski-bindings - Retention devices - Requirements and test methods (ISO 11087:2015)
1Key Takeaways
This International Standard specifies requirements for ski brakes and safety harnesses. It applies to safety devices used in alpine skiing to reduce the risk of injury from a released ski.
2Expert Interpretation
An in-depth analysis of ISO 11087:2015, the international standard for alpine ski bindings and brakes, covers safety requirements, mechanical strength testing, braking performance verification, and compatibility specifications to ensure safe and reliable ski equipment.
ISO 11087:2015 Core Content Analysis
ISO 11087:2015, "Alpine ski bindings — Requirements and test methods for ski bindings," is a key international standard for skier safety, officially implemented on May 1, 2016. This standard sets detailed technical requirements and test specifications for ski bindings used in alpine skiing (including ski brakes and ski straps), aiming to reduce the risk of injury from ski detachment.
Scope of Application and Definition of Terms
This standard applies to all ski bindings used in alpine skiing, primarily encompassing two types: integrated ski brakes and ski strap systems. The standard clearly defines the key terms:
| Terms | Definition | Technical features |
|---|---|---|
| Ski brake | Stop device integrated into the ski binding | Automatically brakes the ski after it falls off |
| Stop strap | Strap-type device connecting the ski to the skier | Keep the ski from the skier |
| Fall zone | Area where a skier may pass after falling | Maximum width not exceeding 5 meters |
Analysis of core technical requirements
4.1 Compatibility with binding functions
Ski brakes must meet the requirements of ISO 9462 and ISO 5355 requirements ensure perfect coordination with the binding system. In practical use, the brake should not affect the normal release function of the binding, which is critical to protecting the skier's knee joint.
4.2 Impact on Skiing
The brake design must ensure that the skis will not snag or slide sideways during skiing, even on steep terrain. The standard specifically emphasizes that the brake must not unintentionally enter the braking position during skiing, which requires precise mechanical design and material selection.
4.3 Mechanical Strength Requirements
The brake must be able to withstand the various mechanical stresses encountered in actual use without damage. This includes shock loads, vibration fatigue, and maintaining mechanical properties under extreme temperature conditions.
4.4 Functional Reliability
Cold, snowy, and icy conditions must not affect the normal release function of the brake. This requirement ensures reliable brake operation in all weather conditions.
4.5 Automatic Function
The brakes must be capable of being activated automatically, independent of the skier's action. If equipped with a locking device, the lock must be automatically released upon entry into the binding. Tools or inserts used for maintenance must be designed to prevent entry into the binding unless removed.
4.6 External Construction
The external design of the brakes must ensure that, under normal use, they do not pose a greater risk of injury to the skier than the binding itself. This includes specifications for edge treatment, surface finish, and design of protruding parts.
4.7 Braking Effect
The brakes must be capable of decelerating the ski in all possible slope positions, regardless of snow and terrain conditions. The skis must come to a complete stop within the skier's fall zone (maximum width of 5 meters).
Test Method and Verification Procedure
5.1 Sampling Requirements
Two complete binding/brake systems (including plates, if present) are required for testing. Each laboratory test must select one test sample, and if one sample does not meet the requirements, two replacement samples must be selected.
5.2 Test Equipment Specifications
| Test Equipment | Specification Requirements | Accuracy Standards |
|---|---|---|
| Impact Block | Made of aluminum, preload 60N | Spring Constant 4N/mm |
| Test Ski Board | Adult Board 2000±50mm, Children’s Board 1500±50mm | Mass Tolerance ±0.1kg |
| Reference Brake | Symmetrically Arranged Brake Lever | Mounting Points in Accordance with ISO 8364 |
5.4 Test Execution Details
5.4.1 Testing for the impact on skiing: Possible impacts are examined through laboratory testing, with clearance verified using the narrowest ski recommended by the manufacturer. 5.4.2 Mechanical Strength Test: Conducted at -20°C, the ski is dropped from a height of 850mm onto an impact block to test the strength of the brake unit bearings and the brake unit itself. 5.4.6 Braking Effectiveness Test: Three test configurations are tested on a slope at a speed of 8±1m/s. The average braking distance must not exceed 20% of the reference brake. Implementation Recommendations and Technical Guidance 6.1 Instruction Requirements Each ski brake must be accompanied by instructions containing at least the following information: instructions for use, maintenance guidelines, and warnings about potential problems encountered during deep snow skiing. 6.2 Installation Instruction Specifications Manufacturers must provide installation instructions, including the brake's application limitations (regarding ski-binding unit weight, ski width, and height) and how to connect it to the binding.
Appendix A: Special Requirements for Ski Straps
Ski straps may be desirable in certain special situations (such as off-piste skiing or deep snow conditions) because they keep the skis close to the skier after the bindings are released. The stopper must meet the following requirements:
| Type | Minimum breaking strength | Minimum breaking energy | Rebound energy limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adult binding stopper | 1500N | 75Nm | <50% (avoid catapult effect) |
| Child binding stopper | 1000N | 50Nm |
Standard evolution and technological innovation
Compared with DIN ISO 11087:2006-02, the 2015 version has made the following important updates: rephrase of test equipment requirements, structural adjustment of instructions for use, change of values for adult and child binding stoppers, update of normative references, etc. These changes reflect the advancement of ski equipment technology and the increase in safety requirements.
This standard serves as a safety technical provision within the meaning of the Product Safety Act (ProdSG). Braking devices that comply with this standard are presumed to meet the relevant personal safety and health requirements.