A winch is a mechanism used to tighten, release, or otherwise regulate the tension of a rope, wire, or cable. Ships use multiple winches to handle slings, sheets, and anchor or mooring lines. The basic mechanism includes a spool or winch drum to wind and store the line. The production line can be operated by simple operations such as hand cranks, but larger winches can contain gear assemblies and be driven by electric, hydraulic, pneumatic or internal combustion engines. Some use mechanical or electromagnetic brakes to control the wiring; Some use electromagnetic brakes. Ratchet and pawl devices sometimes prevent coil deployment. Certain types of winches, often called "self-locking", utilize a "stripper" or anti-skid to maintain the appropriate level of tension on the rope.
In its larger form, winches form the mechanical basis for trailers, steam shovels, cranes, and elevators. The winch is used for towing a variety of vehicles in addition to Marine and industrial uses.
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