What potential outcome can occur from bending a wire rope over a small diameter sheave?

Bending a wire rope over a small diameter sheave can lead to a reduction in the effective strength of the rope. This occurs because the radius over which the rope is bent is not large enough to accommodate the natural curve of the wire strands, which can result in increased stress and potential damage to the rope. When the curvature is too tight, it may compress the strands, causing them to deform or even break, leading to a decrease in the overall strength of the wire rope.

Additionally, bending wire rope over a small sheave can cause other issues such as kinking or impairing its flexibility; however, the primary concern is the direct impact on the strength. Overall, proper sheave size is crucial for maintaining the integrity and performance of the wire rope.