Mechanical advantage force applied at "A" the end of the rope, and let "F" be the force at "B" on the moving block. Like the velocities "F" is directed downwards and "F" is directed upwards. For an ideal block and tackle system there is no friction in the pulleys and no deflection or wear in the rope, which means the power input by the applied force "F""V" must equal the power out acting on the load "F""V", that is The ratio of the output force to the input force is the mechanical advantage of an ideal gun tackle system, This analysis generalizes
Block and tackle more precise estimate of efficiency is possible by use of the sheave friction factor, formula_12 (which may be obtainable from the manufacturer or published tables). The relevant equation is: Typical formula_12 values are 1.04 for roller bearing sheaves and 1.09 for plain bearing sheaves (with wire rope). The increased force produced by a tackle is offset by both the increased length of rope needed and the friction in the system. In order to raise a block and tackle with a mechanical advantage of 6 a distance of 1 metre, it is necessary to pull 6 metres of rope through the