A mechanical lifting device consisting of one or more grooved wheels mounted on an axle within a housing. It routes a rope or cable to change the direction of a pulling force or to create mechanical advantage in a block and tackle system. The assembly typically includes a hook or shackle at the top for mounting.
Heard on the job
Rig a double-sheave tackle block to the overhead beam so we can hoist this motor out.
Insider tip
Always check the safe working load stamped on the cheek plates before rigging a heavy lift.
Also heard as
- pulley block
- snatch block