Rolling bearings improve life of crane cable sheaves

Over many centuries, block-and-tackle systems, or rope and pulley systems as they are more commonly known, have been used to help construct a variety of famous buildings, including the Colosseum in Rome. These devices have also helped generations of students to understand the basics of mechanics and were even sketched by Leonardo da Vinci in some of his famous detailed engineering drawings.

Today, these simple systems are critical when it comes to the lifting or hoisting of heavy loads. However, rather than rely on the physical power of humans to operate these systems, the latest systems utilise electric motors, gearboxes, steel cables instead of ropes, and sheaves made from synthetic materials or steel rather than wooden rollers.

Rolling bearings too play a vital role in supporting the latest cable pulley systems. Indeed, rolling bearings from the Schaeffler Group are being utilised in a number of different applications, including heavy-duty crawler cranes, floating cranes and lifting bridges.