Which type of block is used to change the direction of the wire rope?

The snatch block is designed specifically for changing the direction of a wire rope. It consists of a pulley with an open side that allows the wire rope to be easily inserted or removed, facilitating quick adjustments during lifting operations. This versatility makes it ideal for applications where the direction of the rope needs to be altered, such as redirecting the force exerted during hoisting or pulling tasks.

In contrast, a sheave block, while it also features a pulley, typically serves a more fixed purpose and may not allow for swift attachment or detachment in the way that a snatch block does. A double block is composed of two pulleys and usually provides increased mechanical advantage but does not excel specifically in directional changes like the snatch block. A single block, featuring only one pulley, can change direction as well, but it lacks the ease of use associated with the open design of a snatch block. Thus, the snatch block is favored for its functionality in altering the line's trajectory while maintaining efficiency in operations.