Polymer Knot: Simple Steps to Understand and Create It

This guide will give clarity about what a polymer knot is and how it plays a critical role in the field of construction, simplifying the complex world of polymer science.

What You Will Learn

Palomar Knot Tying Instructions

1. Begin by doubling about 6 inches of line to make a loop.

2. Pass the loop through the eye of the hook, lure, or swivel.

3. Hold the loop with the hook dangling and tie a loose overhand knot above the eyelet.

4. Open the loop enough to pass the hook or lure through it.

5. Pull the line to tighten the knot down onto the eye while pressing the twisted lines at the top with your fingers to ensure the knot cinches neatly.

6. Trim the excess line leaving a small tag.

Steps

Begin by doubling about 6 inches of the fishing line, then pass the folded line through the eye of the hook or lure. Next, tie a simple overhand knot in the doubled line, leaving a loop large enough to pass the hook or lure through.

After tying the overhand knot, pull the loop down and pass the hook or lure through it. Finally, pull on both the standing line and the tag end to tighten the knot down onto the eye. Make sure to moisten the line with saliva or water before pulling tight to reduce friction and ensure a strong knot.

Trim any excess from the tag end, leaving about a 1/8-inch length.

Threading The Line

Begin by doubling about six inches of line to form a loop. Thread this loop through the eye of the hook or lure. If the eye is small, or you’re using a heavy line, it may require some finesse. Ensure the loop is large enough to work with but not excessively long, to maintain efficiency and control in subsequent steps.

Double-check the line for twists or kinks, as these can weaken the final knot. Now that the line is properly threaded, you’re ready to move on to creating the knot itself.

Knotting The Line

Once the line is doubled through the eyelet, form a simple overhand knot with the doubled line. Ensure the loop is large enough to pass the lure, hook, or swivel through later.

After you’ve tied the overhand knot, but before tightening it, slip the lure or hook through the large loop. Now, hold the lure or terminal tackle piece with one hand and pull the two standing lines in opposite directions to tighten the knot.

Slide the overhand knot down toward the eyelet to cinch it in place. Trim any excess line from the loose end but leave a small tag to prevent the knot from unraveling.

The result should be a symmetric knot with a loop that distributes tension evenly, which is crucial for maintaining the line’s strength during a catch.

Warnings

Ensure that the knot is securely tightened to avoid slippage, which can lead to failure at critical moments, especially when handling heavy loads. Be mindful of the type of polymer rope used; not all materials behave the same way under stress, and some may require different knots to maintain strength.

Avoid excessive heat or exposure to harsh chemicals that can degrade the polymer and weaken the knot over time. Regularly inspect knots for signs of wear or damage, as continued use can cause them to lose integrity. If the knot is meant to be permanent or for long-term use, consider using a backup knot for added security.

Remember that while the Palomar knot is strong and versatile, it may not be suitable for all applications, so use judgment when deciding on its use in construction settings.

FAQ

How strong is the polymer knot?

The strength of a polymer knot, specifically the Palomar knot, is 95 percent.

What is the strongest fishing knot?

The strongest fishing knot, applicable in many situations due to its simplicity and resistance to breakage, is the Palomar Knot.

What is the best copolymer knot?

The best copolymer knot is the Palomar knot, which notably excels with all braids, fused lines, nylon monofilaments, co-polymers, and fluorocarbon lines, and is a preferred choice for securing snaps and swivels, single hooks, and smaller lures such as jigs or in-line spinners.

How do different environmental conditions affect the durability of a polymer knot?

Different environmental conditions such as UV radiation, high temperatures, moisture, and various chemical exposures can deteriorate a polymer knot by weakening its tensile strength, elasticity, and overall durability.

In which types of construction are polymer knots most commonly used?

Polymer knots are most commonly used in the construction of lightweight structures, such as temporary housing and event shelters.

How do the properties of a polymer affect the strength and flexibility of a knot?

The properties of a polymer, such as its chain length, crosslinking degree, and molecular arrangement, play crucial roles in the strength and flexibility of a knot, as these elements determine the material’s ability to deform without breaking and recover its original shape after deformation.