Manual Crank Winch for Overhead Power Transmission Distribution Lines Stringing

For manual crank winches used in overhead power transmission and distribution line stringing, the following points summarize their characteristics and typical applications based on available industry equipment:

• Purpose: These manual winches are designed specifically for pulling, tensioning, and sagging conductors, earth wires, and cables during overhead line construction and maintenance. They help in conductor stringing without the need for powered winches, making them suitable for remote or sensitive environments where power is limited or safety is a concern.

• Design and Operation:

  • Hand-operated with a crank handle and ratchet mechanism for controlled tensioning.

  • Often equipped with mechanical ratchet systems that allow incremental tightening and secure holding of steel wire ropes.

  • Some models include a Tirfor-style pulling mechanism, which uses a hand bar and ratchet for precise tension control.

  • Typically made from durable materials such as alloy steel or mild steel with corrosion-resistant coatings to withstand outdoor conditions.

• Load Capacity:

  • Capacities vary widely, commonly ranging from around 8 kN (about 800 kgf) up to 32 kN (3.2 tons) or more, depending on the model.

  • For example, Tirfor pulling winches used in transmission line stringing can have pulling loads from 12.5 kN to 50 kN, with steel rope diameters from 8 mm to 16 mm.

  • Manual sagging winches with capacities up to 10 tons are also available, suitable for industrial overhead line applications.

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• Applications:

  • Stringing conductors and earth wires.

  • Sagging conductors to proper tension.

  • Pulling cables during installation.

  • Used in outage conditions to avoid electrical shocks by eliminating powered equipment near live lines.

• Additional Accessories:

  • Often paired with clamps, pulleys, and other stringing accessories such as come-along clamps and OPGW running boards to facilitate installation.

  • Designed to be portable and easy to operate by line workers in the field.

• Advantages:

  • No external power source needed, reducing risk in energized environments.

  • Simple, reliable mechanical operation with safety ratchets and brakes.

  • Lightweight and portable for use in remote or difficult terrain.

In summary, manual crank winches for overhead power line stringing are specialized hand-operated devices engineered for safe, controlled pulling and tensioning of conductors and cables in transmission and distribution line construction. They provide a practical solution where powered winches are impractical or unsafe, with models offering capacities from a few kilonewtons up to 10 tons and featuring robust, corrosion-resistant construction suitable for outdoor industrial use.