winch size

[simonfraser]

easy one, but i can't google the answer

one winch says 16 the other 30, what sort of mechanical advantage do i get out of each ?

standard winch handle

just out of interest, whilst checking my furling line, i managed to break the outer braiding of 6mm rope using the 30 no problem, but not with the 16

 

[tom52]

"The winch size refers to the power ratio i.e. a Size 40 winch has a 40.2 : 1 power ratio. This means if you put 25kg/55lb of effort on the handle, the pull generated will be approximately 1005kg/2211lbs."

The above is from the Lewmar site. Lots of info there.

 

[macd]

Typically the number is the power ratio. F'rinstance Harken state that with their No48 winch, one kg of handle input generates 48kg at the drum. Andersen are rather more precise: power ratio equals length of handle x gear ratio divided by radius of drum. I think Lewmar use a similar convention but some other manufacturers, such as Enkes, seem to use a different factor (judging by the way you see #26 genoa sheet winches on pretty hefty 36 footers).

 

[simonfraser]

many thanks

 

[William_H]

I would suggest it varies with winch manufacturers. My winches all direct drive tend to have a larger model number with winch size. Now being direct drive the larger the winch drum the less actual power advantage although the larger the winch drum the more load you can handle and the larger the rope you can use. So the larger the winch the longer the handle you need to get the greater power advantage you will want.
When you get into geared winches then still the larger the number the larger the drum and hopefully /possibly the larger the gear ratio . good luck olewill