Which component functions to prevent wear on a rope loop by providing a protective groove?

• A. Grommet
• B. Bushing
• C. Thimble
• D. Sheave

Answer: (C)

A thimble does the work. It sits inside the eye of the rope loop and creates a smooth, rounded groove for the rope to sit in. This protects the rope from abrasion and deformation at the bend, because the rope isn’t pressed against a sharp edge or the metal hardware. The wrapped area is kept from fraying and the loop maintains its shape under load. Grommets reinforce holes but don’t provide a protective groove for a rope loop; bushings reduce wear in holes or passages in hardware, not along a rope bend; and a sheave (pulley) guides the rope and changes direction, which is a different function than protecting the rope at the loop itself.