How can I compute the length of cable that can be spooled on a winch?

Question

I'm no rigger but i was made to compute the length of ropes that can be spooled on a winch given only the diameter and the width.

Answer 1

do you have the diameter of the drum its being spooled on?

you would need to see how wide it is, then find out how many times it will fit between the ends, then you will know the distance of the first wrap... then increase the diameter by whatever the thickness of two layers of that rope is. then repeat untill you are at the max for the drum.

that might only make sense in my head but thats how i would do it.

Answer 2

Don't, three wraps are usually sufficient to winch in a cable or rope which should then be tied off to a cleat.