If a turn-table is not available the rope may be rolled along the ground as shown in Fig. 130.
In no case must the rope be laid on the ground and the end taken over (as in Fig. 131), or kinks will result, and the rope will be completely spoiled.
The life of Wire Rope depends principally upon the diameter of drums, sheaves, and pulleys; and too much importance cannot be given to the size of the latter. Wherever possible the size of the pulleys should be not less than 700 times the diameter of the largest wire in the rope, and never less than 300 times. The diameters of drums, sheaves, and pulleys should increase with the working load when the factor of safety is less than 5 to 1.
The load should not be lifted with a jerk, as the strain may equal three or four times the proper load, and a sound rope may easily be broken.
Examine ropes frequently. A new rope is cheaper than the risk of killing or maiming employees.