Sheave are not limitless. One application of this is the Variomatic automatic transmission. Sheave A sheave () is a pulley with a grooved wheel for holding a belt, wire rope, or rope. The grooved wheel spins on an axle or bearing inside the frame of the block. This allows the wire or rope to move freely minimizing friction and wear on the cable. Sheaves can be used to redirect a cable or rope, lift loads, and transmit power. The words "sheave" and "pulley" are sometimes used interchangeably. A sheave can also refer to a pulley which has an adjustable operating diameter
Wire rope spooling technology its behaviour and affects lifespan. Fleet angle should be between 0.25° and 1.25°, depending on the rope construction. The fleet angle can be varied by moving the first sheave closer to or further away from the drum. If the sheave is too close to the drum, the fleet angle will be greater than 1.25°; if it is too far away, the fleet angle will be less than 0.25°. Sometimes it is not possible to achieve the optimum fleet angle. Where there is no space to rig a sheave the requisite distance from the drum, two additional spooling devices are available.