A single fixed well pulley changes pull direction but does not ideally multiply force. This calculator uses a declared 10 N/L water-load approximation and computes ideal lift work and average power.
Well Pulley and Bucket Interactive Calculator
Enter water volume, vertical lift height and lift time. The model assumes 10 N per litre and a frictionless fixed pulley—not a real hoist design.
Equation Used
- Water load is approximated as 10 N per litre.
- One ideal fixed pulley changes direction only.
- Lift height is vertical and speed is represented only by average time.
- No energy recovery is included.
- Bucket and rope mass, friction, acceleration, shock, strength and human limits are omitted.
Fixed-Pulley Work Context
NASA Glenn defines ideal work as force times aligned distance and power as the time rate of work. A fixed pulley changes pull direction but has ideal mechanical advantage one.
What This Calculator Represents
Compare the pull, work and average power for a water bucket, using the stated rounded water-weight assumption.
Ideal Lifting Work
F_pull=F
W=Fh
P=W/t
Worked Example
Ten litres lifted 10 m in 8 s gives declared load and pull of 100 N, ideal work 1,000 J and average power 125 W.
Assumptions and Limits
- Calculated: declared load, ideal pull, work and average power.
- Illustrated: fixed pulley, rope and bucket.
- Not calculated: real mass, friction, acceleration, shock, strength or safety.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does one fixed pulley halve force?
No.
Is 10 N/L exact?
No; it is rounded.
Is bucket mass included?
No.
Is power instantaneous?
No; it is average.
Are friction losses included?
No.
Can this rate a hoist?
No.
References
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