I finally clicked on the
Hercules Certified ROPS ad that's running here on TBN, and found some very interesting information. They are out of Australia, but are beginning distribution in the US, and it looks like they are going to be offering a certified ROPS for just about every old tractor out there.
Here is something I found in the FAQ's that will qualify as my "learned something new" factoid for the day:
<font color="blue">Q. Why can't I just make my own ROPS?
A. ROPS design and functionality is counter-intuitive or in other words, not what people expect. This is why most people, even Agricultural dealers, do not understand the safety principles of a ROPS. They think that a super-strong, rigid structure will afford greater protection.
When the tractor above flipped backwards, this homemade ROPS tore away at the axle housing, instantly crushing the 14-year-old operator to death. The ROPS was undamaged.
A ROPS is not meant to be rigid and must be able to absorb energy, similar to the crumple zone of a car or a crash helmet. In the event of a roll over, this ability to absorb a discrete amount of energy, while maintaining a zone of clearance or protection, helps to prevent the tractor from pole-vaulting downhill. It also helps to prevent the energy generated from the roll over, from being transferred to the tractor itself. Not only does this lessen the likelihood of major damage to the tractor, more importantly, it reduces the likelihood of serious injury or death, as a consequence of the tractor's being torn apart. Many countries have stringent guidelines for the provision of ROPS, usually called a Standard. </font>
