Sheave

A sheave (pronounced 'shiv') is a grooved wheel, typically a pulley wheel, used in a block, or as part of a system of pulleys, to change the direction of a rope, belt, or cable and to transmit mechanical force or movement. The groove guides the rope or cable, preventing it from slipping off the wheel. Sheaves are found in various mechanical systems, from simple hoisting devices to complex machinery in construction, marine, and industrial applications. Their design allows for efficient redirection and mechanical advantage, crucial in applications involving lifting, pulling, and tensioning.

Sheave meaning with examples

• The construction crew used a block and tackle system, the ropes running smoothly over the sheaves to lift heavy steel beams. Each sheave in the block rotated freely, minimizing friction. The engineer inspected the sheaves regularly, ensuring they were in good condition to prevent wear and tear of the hoisting cables, which could have caused major hazards.
• The ship's rigging relied on numerous sheaves integrated into the mast and boom. The sailors skillfully manipulated the ropes passing over the sheaves, controlling the sails and steering the vessel. Regular maintenance included lubricating the sheaves to ensure their smooth rotation, preventing excessive strain on the ropes, and to stop possible degradation in bad weather.
• In the elevator system, the steel cables pass over large, robust sheaves connected to a powerful motor. The sheaves are designed to withstand immense weight and continuous use, essential for safely transporting passengers. Regular inspection of the sheaves for damage or wear, as well as lubrication, ensures optimal performance and passenger safety from the possible catastrophic failure.
• A classic exercise used pulleys with sheaves to give mechanical advantage, allowing participants to lift more weight. The arrangement and number of sheaves determine the force needed to lift an object, therefore the person could handle the load and feel the burn. In this case, the sheaves had to be of the correct material and had a high load bearing capacity and proper grooving.