October 23, 2020

Containers

Until now we have been looking at the loading and discharge of what is known as General Cargo. There has been a large shift away from general cargo vessels with the introduction of containers. Containers are very large steel boxes with lockable doors at one end.  Thr idea is that […]
October 23, 2020

Cargo working gear.

Cargo working gear consists of shackles, cranes, derricks and their associated equipment, masts and Sampson posts and the wires/ropes used to connect them all together. Shackles. Types: Shackles are named according to their different shapes, ie “D” or “Straight backed”, “Bow” or “Harp” shackles. One other type which is not […]
October 23, 2020

Blocks and tackles

In order to lift heavier weights, a system of blocks and tackles was gradually introduced. Originally they were made out of wood, but as the loads got heavier and they had to withstand harder work they were made out of steel. It is very rare these days to find a […]
October 23, 2020

Purchases and tackles

Purchase. A purchase is a combination of blocks or pulleys rove with a rope, wire or chain. Tackle. A tackle is a purchase consisting of a rope rove and through two or more blocks, in such a way that any pull applied to the hauling part, is increased by an […]