If a heavy cable is pulled vertically from the top, what device is likely required to control the descent?

If a heavy cable is pulled vertically from the top, what device is likely required to control the descent?

• A. Tension clamps
• B. Pulley guards
• C. Sheave lubricants
• D. Reel brakes

Answer: (D)

When a heavy cable is lowered straight down from the top, you must have a control thatCounteracts gravity and the drum’s rotational inertia. A device on the reel that provides braking force does this by creating friction on the drum, so the operator can lower the cable at a steady, safe rate or stop it completely as needed. That’s the job of a reel brake: it keeps the descent under control and prevents the line from free-spinning or dropping uncontrollably. Tension clamps are used to hold or maintain tension on a line, not to regulate motion during lowering. Pulley guards are safety features to shield workers from moving parts, not to control descent. Lubricants reduce friction and wear in pulleys, but they don’t provide a braking force to slow a load.

When a heavy cable is lowered straight down from the top, you must have a control thatCounteracts gravity and the drum’s rotational inertia. A device on the reel that provides braking force does this by creating friction on the drum, so the operator can lower the cable at a steady, safe rate or stop it completely as needed. That’s the job of a reel brake: it keeps the descent under control and prevents the line from free-spinning or dropping uncontrollably.

Tension clamps are used to hold or maintain tension on a line, not to regulate motion during lowering. Pulley guards are safety features to shield workers from moving parts, not to control descent. Lubricants reduce friction and wear in pulleys, but they don’t provide a braking force to slow a load.