What is a pulley’s primary function in a rigging system?

A pulley’s primary function in a rigging system is to change the direction of the force applied for lifting. This means that by using a pulley, an operator can pull down on a rope or cable to lift a load upward, which can be more efficient and ergonomically advantageous. For example, if the load is positioned high up, pulling down on the rope helps to lift the load without requiring the rigger to exert force in an upward direction directly.

While pulleys can participate in systems that reduce friction and assist in lifting loads, their fundamental design and purpose focus on redirecting the applied force. This capability makes them indispensable in lifting operations where safely moving heavy loads from one position to another is necessary. Additional uses, such as providing counterweights or decreasing friction, play secondary roles, but they do not align with the primary function of a pulley in rigging systems.