This is a common question, and the distinction is crucial to understanding professional cable pulling systems.

• Bullwheel: A bullwheel is the primary driving component found on a pulling machine or OHTLstringingequipment.com/Hydraulic-Conductor-Tensioners.html target='_blank'>Tensioner. It's a large, grooved wheel (often double-grooved) around which the pulling rope or conductor is wrapped multiple times. The bullwheel itself is powered by a hydraulic motor, generating a constant and powerful pulling force. The bullwheel is responsible for applying the tension.

• Sheave/Roller: A sheave, also known as a roller, is a free-spinning wheel used to guide and support the cable along the pulling route. They are not powered and are placed at intervals in trenches or mounted on towers and poles. Their function is to reduce friction and prevent the cable from dragging on the ground, conduits, or other obstacles, which could damage its outer sheath.

In short, a bullwheel is a power-driven component that applies the force, while a sheave or roller is a passive component that guides and protects the cable.