The sheave spins on an axle or bearing inside the frame of the pulley. This allows the wire or rope to move freely, minimizing friction and wear on the cable. Sheaves can be used to redirect a cable or rope, lift loads, and transmit power. The words sheave and pulley are sometimes used interchangeably.

What is a sheaves used for?

They are used in tandem with a rope, belt, or cable to lift items with a crane. Essentially, a sheave is a wheel with an open groove that a rope or cable fits around so it can rotate around the exterior.

What is difference between pulley and sheave?

A pulley is one of six types of simple machines. A sheave (pronounced “shiv”) is actually part of the pulley system. The sheave is the rotating, grooved wheel inside the pulley. This is the piece that the rope fits into.