How Does a Block and Tackle Hoist Work?
Basics: What is a Block and Tackle A block and tackle is any system where a rope or cable is run between at least two pulleys. It is used to hoist especially heavy loads. It is widely believed that the system was invented by the Greek philosopher Archimedes. Mechanical Advantage A block and tackle works because of the principle of mechanical advantage. This is the multiplication by which a mechanism improves the amount of force put into it. Pulleys work by changing the direction of the force applied to a flexible material, such as the cable or rope used with the pulley. Pulleys can be added together, increasing their mechanical advantage. In the block and tackle, two or more pulleys are combined to yield a substantial mechanical advantage. Common Uses Block and tackle systems were widely found on sailing ships, and continue to be found there today. Ship operation involves a lot of heavy pulling. In pre-motorized times, powered tools to do the heavy pulling were not available; in modern
