What type of construction is characterized by fibers appearing to spiral around the webbing?

The type of construction characterized by fibers appearing to spiral around the webbing is known as spiral stitch. In this technique, the fibers are woven in a manner that creates a spiral pattern, providing enhanced flexibility and strength to the webbing. This construction is commonly used in applications where durability and resistance to wear are essential, such as in ropes and straps used in rescue operations or climbing gear. The spiral form enables the webbing to better resist bending and breaking under heavy loads, making it a suitable choice for high-stress situations encountered in confined space rescue scenarios.

In contrast, flat weave is a construction where the fibers are woven in a flat pattern, providing a different set of characteristics and needs. Lock stitch construction involves interlocking threads, which serves well in fabric but is less applicable to webbing. Twisted braid typically refers to fibers twisted together, leading to different mechanical properties and uses compared to the spiral stitch. Understanding these distinctions is vital for selecting the right equipment for specific rescue operations.