What is a sheave primarily used for?

A sheave is primarily used for holding a cable. It serves as a wheel that helps to redirect the cable, allowing it to pass smoothly while also bearing the tension from the load being lifted. The inclusion of a sheave in a crane system is critical, as it reduces friction and wear on the cable, which can extend its life and improve overall lifting efficiency. By channeling the cable through a groove, a sheave can also change the direction of the force applied to the load, providing greater flexibility and precision during lifting operations, which is essential for safe and effective crane operation.