Winch
A winch is a mechanical lifting device that uses a crank to wind up a cable around a cylindrical spool. Winches can be operated manually or powered by a pneumatic, hydraulic, or electric motor. Winches are used for towing, lifting, and anchoring. Unlike a hoist, which is used to lift loads vertically, a winch generally pulls horizontally.
Winches differ by diameter, load capacity, line material, length, and maximum loaded line speed. They manage loads that humans cannot physically lift or lower alone. Winches can employ wire, rope, cable, or chain to move heavy loads.
Winches are used both in commercial and residential environments. Industrial winches are used for automotive, construction, manufacturing, marine, military, mining, and transportation purposes. Winches come in an abundance of sizes, from small hand winches for light jobs to large units capable of moving heavy machinery.