Capstan Winch Calculator

Capstan equation — holding force, friction, and mechanical advantage for wraps around a post.

Calculator Numbers & Math Updated Apr 20, 2026
How to Use
  1. Enter load, wraps, and friction coefficient.
  2. Hold force needed drops exponentially with wraps.
Input
Result

Formula

Capstan equation
T_hold = T_load / e^(μ·θ) — θ = wraps × 2π
Typical μ
rope on wood ≈ 0.3 · rope on steel ≈ 0.25 · nylon ≈ 0.35

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