Prepare for the NEIEP Mechanics Exam with multiple choice questions, hints, and detailed explanations. Ace your test and advance your career!

Practice this question and more.


What action should be taken to interrupt a capstan from hoisting?

  1. Increase the pulling force

  2. Ease off the pulling rope

  3. Secure the capstan

  4. Apply more tension

The correct answer is: Ease off the pulling rope

To interrupt a capstan from hoisting, easing off the pulling rope is the appropriate action. This method reduces the amount of force being applied to the rope, causing the capstan to lose grip and slow down or stop the hoisting process. By easing the tension on the rope, the mechanical advantage provided by the capstan is diminished, allowing for a safe and controlled cessation of lifting. In contrast, increasing the pulling force or applying more tension would have the opposite effect, causing the capstan to continue hoisting or even accelerate the lift. Securing the capstan would likely keep it in the locked position but would not effectively interrupt the hoisting process itself. Easing the rope is a direct approach to safely manage the lifting operation.