Z3-Fire Powered Ascender with Texas Sized Case

The Z3 features an integrated dual self-locking mechanism that automatically engages in case of gearbox failure, preventing accidental falls and ensuring operational safety.

What Rope Works Best?

 The Z3 is rated for EN 1891 9.5-11mm ropes, but in real-world use, here’s what we’ve found with 100-200lb loads:

• Works with stiff 9mm ropes
• Works great with 10mm ropes
• Works with supple 11mm ropes
• Does NOT work well with stiff 11mm ropes

Awah has developed a prototype wheel that handles all types of 11mm ropes better than the OEM wheel. Awah is working to mass produce their design, but in the mean time they want the option available to anyone who needs it today.

 Rope Recommendations

 OEM Wheel

• Arete Task Line Static 10.5mm
• Sterling HTP 3/8" (9.5mm)
• Edelrid Performance Static 10mm
• Sterling Safety Pro 11mm

11mm Prototype Wheel*

• Sterling HTP 3/8" (9.5mm)
• Sterling Safety Pro 11mm
• Edelrid Enduro Static 11mm
• Sterling HTP 7/16" (11mm)
• PMI 11mm Pit Rope

*The inside surface of the 11 mm prototype wheels is intentionally textured to provide extra grip on the rope. During the initial break-in period, this texture may cause slightly higher rope wear. Once the surface smooths to its baseline, rope wear will return to normal levels.

Z3 vs Z2R

Lowering Control:

• Z3 uses a handle to gradually move the rope away from the pinch point for smooth lowering
• Z2R requires wrapping the rope around friction arms and fully releasing the gears

Gear Ratio:

• Same on both devices

Ease of Opening/loading rope:

• Z3 can be opened and the rope loaded while the device is clipped to the user or anchor
• Z2R must be unclipped to load the rope

Swivel:

• Z3-FIRE comes with an integrated swivel which allows ease of device orientation with respect to user or anchor
• Z2R has no swivel

Certifications:

• Z3 is in the process of getting PPE, ANSI, and NFPA certifications
• Z2R has no certifications

Availability:

• Z3 is not replacing the Z2R. We stock and support both.

 Wear Components

The wheel is a wear part which is easily replaceable using a 4mm allen wrench (included) and two flat head screwdrivers to evenly pry it up. Wear is expected and replacement wheels will be available for purchase. Wheel lifespan is dependent on rope type, environment, and loading characteristics. Working with clean ropes is the best way to extend the longevity of your wheel, but we’ll have them available soon for when it does wear out.

Other wear components include the rope edge rollers and bearings, which require the device to be returned for service.

Anodization colors may change between batches.