The Yale PB Pulley Block is a single-sheave hinged pulley block for redirecting wire rope on hoists, tirfors and winches, or for use as a rigging point and snatch block. The hinged side plate opens for quick and easy positioning of the wire rope on the sheave — no threading required — and swinging the hook in the direction of pull securely locks the block. High-quality cast steel sheaves have machined grooves and Permaglide® bushes for long service life.
Key Features
- Hinged side plate opens for easy and quick positioning of the wire rope on the sheave — no need to thread the rope through.
- Cast steel sheave with machined grooves for smooth rope operation and long service life.
- Permaglide® bushes on the sheave reduce friction and extend service intervals.
- Swinging hook securely locks the pulley block when load is applied in the direction of pull.
- Four capacity options from 1000kg up to 6400kg to suit a range of rigging applications.
- Versatile rigging point can be used as a snatch block, diverter sheave, or to redirect rope on tirfors, winches and wire rope hoists.
- Compliant with DIN 15020 "Principles for Rope Drives" and EN 13157:2003.
Technical Specifications
| Model |
WLL |
Wire Rope Diameter |
| PB 1000 |
1000 kg |
7 mm |
| PB 2000 |
2000 kg |
13 mm |
| PB 3200 |
3200 kg |
15 mm |
| PB 6400 |
6400 kg |
18 mm |
Each model is supplied with a single cast steel sheave, hinged side plate, and integral hook with safety latch. The pulley block doubles its lifting or pulling capacity when used to redirect a load — note the extra force this places on fixing and anchor points.
CE Marked, UKCA Compliant & Manufactured to European Lifting Standards
The Yale PB Pulley Block is manufactured in accordance with European standards EN 13157:2003 and the Machinery Directive. When choosing and classifying pulley blocks, take the "Principles for Rope Drives" DIN 15020 into consideration. Fully compatible with LOLER 1998 and PUWER 1998 Regulations.
Suitable Applications
The Yale PB Pulley Block is widely used as a snatch block, diverter sheave, or rigging point in construction, rigging, vehicle recovery, and industrial applications. Typical uses include redirecting wire rope on tirfors and winches, increasing the effective pulling capacity of a wire rope system by mechanical advantage, creating temporary lifting points, and supporting structural pulling operations. Compatible with the Yale Yaletrac and Yaletrac ST cable puller ranges.
How to Use the Yale PB Pulley Block
- Inspect the pulley block before each use. Check the sheave, side plates, hinge, hook, safety latch and bushes for damage, wear or corrosion. Do not use if defects are found.
- Ensure exclusion zones are in place and a competent person is overseeing the operation.
- Select the correct pulley block for the wire rope diameter being used (refer to the technical specifications table).
- Verify that the anchor point is rated for the combined load on the hook — when a pulley block redirects a load, the force on the anchor can be up to twice the load on the rope.
- Open the hinged side plate and position the wire rope onto the sheave. Close and secure the side plate before applying load.
- Attach the pulley block's hook to the anchor point. Ensure the safety latch is closed and the hook is free to swing in the direction of pull.
- Apply load progressively. The hook will swing and lock into the direction of pull.
- Do not exceed the rated WLL. Consider DIN 15020 "Principles for Rope Drives" for repeated use applications.
Important:
A site-specific risk assessment and lift plan must be completed before use. All personnel must be competent and briefed in accordance with LOLER 1998. Yale pulley blocks are not designed for passenger elevation and must not be used for this purpose.
Inspection and Maintenance
Inspect before every use, including checking the sheave for wear or grooving, the side plates and hinge for deformation, the hook and safety latch for damage, and the bushes for smooth rotation. Arrange thorough examination by a qualified engineer at least every 6 months when in regular use, in accordance with LOLER 1998. Lubricate the sheave bushes periodically. Store in a clean, dry location when not in use.
Warranty & Support
All Yale PB Pulley Blocks are covered by the Yale manufacturer warranty against defects in material and workmanship.
Downloads
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a snatch block, and is the Yale PB a snatch block?
Yes, the Yale PB is a single-sheave hinged pulley block, commonly known as a snatch block, diverter sheave, or winch pulley. The hinged side plate allows the rope to be placed onto the sheave from the side without needing to thread the end through — particularly useful for rope that's already terminated or anchored at one end.
How do I select the correct pulley block for my wire rope?
Match the pulley block to your wire rope diameter and required WLL. The PB 1000 is for 7mm rope at 1000kg WLL, the PB 2000 for 13mm rope at 2000kg, the PB 3200 for 15mm rope at 3200kg, and the PB 6400 for 18mm rope at 6400kg. Always select a pulley block with a WLL equal to or greater than the maximum load expected on the sheave.
Does using a pulley block increase pulling or lifting capacity?
Yes — using a pulley block to redirect a wire rope so that it returns to a fixed anchor can effectively double the pulling or lifting capacity of the rope and winch system. This also doubles the force applied to the pulley block's anchor point, which must be rated accordingly. Always consult a competent person and consider DIN 15020 when designing rope drive systems.
How often should the Yale PB be inspected?
A visual inspection is required before every use. A thorough examination by a qualified engineer is required at least every 6 months for units in regular use, in accordance with LOLER 1998. Records of examination must be kept.
