A hoisting wheel is a large wheel used, via an axle and a rope, to lift heavy loads. By using the large wheel as a lever, a heavy load can be raised with relatively little force. It is one of the oldest lifting tools.
How it works
The rope is wound around an axle fixed to the wheel. When the wheel is turned, the rope winds up and the load rises. There are two main forms:
- Hand wheel (windlass) — with spokes or cranks turned by hand
- Treadwheel — a large wheel in which one or more people walk; their body weight provides the force
History
Hoisting wheels were used for centuries in the building of churches, cathedrals and fortifications, and in ports and warehouses. In some old church towers and warehouses the treadwheel is still present. The principle lives on in the modern winch and block and tackle.
Application
- Building tall structures — raising building material and natural stone
- Warehouses — together with the hoisting beam for lifting merchandise
- Ports — loading and unloading ships
- Mills and water structures — operating locks and sluice gates
Related terms
- Hoisting beam
- Hoisting hatch
- Winch
- Pulley
- Warehouse
- Windlass
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