gradient.cx

FAQ

We would like provide you by answers for most Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ GENERAL
	Which glider size is the right one? To get the right size, you need to know your take-of weight. Choose the size of glider that puts you closest to the middle of the weight range. If you are between two sizes, analyse which style of flying you prefer If you are more loaded, the wing is a bit more dynamic. Important point are also flying conditions you use most of your time, for weaker conditions is better slightly biger glider. However, you will be safe on either of the sizes as long as you are within the weight range.
Life time of the wing? The life time of a wing depends on several criteria among which of course the number of hours of flight. Other criteria are important too: exposure to the sun, hours of inflation exercices, contact with water or humidity and storage conditions. Drying of the wing immediately is very important aspect. Your wing will last longer if you do not expose unnecessarily your wing to sun rays and fold it always carefully. Why Gradient is using different materials in different place of canopy? To make the best of potential of newest materials, for every part of a glider the best material without compromise is used: - We chose Porcher Marine New Skytex S 9092 (45 g/m2), with coating E77A, for upper sail, because of its best stability and its water resistance. - We chose Porcher Marine New Skytex S 9017 (40g/m2) with coating E38A, for the lower surface, because of its lower weight, good possibility to repair by adhesive Skytex (and also better possibility to putt there an advertising from adhesive materials) and better possibility to dry up. - Main carrying ribs are made of Porcher Marine Skytex S 9092 with coating E29A -Hard Finish (45 g/m2). - Non-carrying ribs are of Porcher Marine Skytex S 9017 with coating E29A -Hard Finish (40 g/m2). Why Gradient is using lines from different materials in suspension system? There is mostly a three-level line concept used on our gliders. Excluding competition gliders, for the level closest to the canopy and for the middle level we use purely dyneema lines, because of their best durability and lower reduction of strength after sewing. For main lines we use field-proven, strong Aramid lines, because of their low elongation at break. Why Gradient is using uncovered dyneema lines in suspension system? On high performance gliders, at the level closest to the canopy we use special LIROS lines, stronghold uncovered dyneema. These lines offer the best blend of durability, strength and drag reduction. Also finishing the lines by splicing does not reduce the strength! Why Gradient is using lines with different diameters in suspension system? There is always different loading on different places of canopy. Generally- in the middle of canopy is higher than the ears, on the A-row is higher than on the D-row… This is the reason why we use the progressively differing diameters on our gliders. Advantage of this solution is clear: optimal exploiting of lines potential, less drag, less weight, etc. Why each glider is flown before delivered to customer? To fly every glider is really hard job, but every paraglider is an aircraft and even if there are several quality control checks during the whole production process, only flight check by very experienced pilot can guarantee, that the glider is OK. Where is the nearest Gradient Dealer?
FAQ TECHNICAL
	How to replace the line? The only admissible repairs done on lines are those where the damaged lines are changed for new ones, exclusively supplied by the manufacturer, authorised dealer or service. When putting an order for lines, use code indicators given in the pilot´s manual and or in suspension system reference on this webb-page. An exception is changing a control line in the terrain. For this purpose the manufacturer encloses a spare line with a prepared loop on one end. The right length should be adjusted according to the same line on the opposite side of the canopy and then attach your break handle. As soon as you can yourself swap the line for an original one from your authorised GRADIENT service centre. After any changing of lines a thorough pre-flight check must be done! Don't hesitate to ask your instructor or an experienced colleague for help. If you're not sure, entrust the job to either the manufacturer or an authorised GRADIENT dealer.
How to repair a small damage on canopy? Only small repairs may be done by the user which means repairs that don't change the airworthiness of the paraglider. Among these are fixing small tears (besides seams) up to 10 cm. When repairing the sail use self-adhesive patch specified for this purpose. To every glider the manufacturer encloses an amount of self-adhesive material which is enough for usual repairs during the usage of your paraglider.
FAQ MAINTENANCE
	General inspection interval? Gradient recommends the first general inspection after 2 years or 200 hrs. If you find any changes in your wings flying behaviour you should have the wing checked before your next flight. General inspections always have to be carried out by an Gradient autorized service center. Where I can find Gradient autorized service center? Inspections and major repairs are carried out directly in Gradient workshop in Praha for or in various countries, there are dealers and importers who also provide inspections. Enquire at your Gradient dealer for the name and address of the closest service center.
Cleaning of the glider? Clean the paraglider with clean lukewarm water only. Never let the glider come into contact with chemicals. After cleaning the wing, let it dry far from the sun. What to do with wet glider? Even if your glider is made from Water-repellent fabric, try not to pack your glider when wet! This could damage fabric characteristics (especially its stability) and support mildew genesis. If there's no other way then dry it as soon as possible but away from direct sunlight. Don't let your glider come into contact with sea water. If it does, rinse (the lines, canopy and risers) with fresh water and dry before storing. Long time storage? For longer term storage we reccomande: Take the glider out of rucksack, let it in inner bag, which should be open in order to let humidity go out.Storage your glider in a dry room far from high heat and from the sun.