An electric winch converts electrical energy into mechanical energy to generate pulling power. The process works through these main components:
Power source: An electric motor, which can be powered by either direct current (DC) from a battery (common in off-road vehicles) or alternating current (AC) from a power outlet (common in industrial settings).
Gearbox: The gearbox is what allows the winch to pull extremely heavy loads. It multiplies the motor's torque, converting high rotational speed from the motor into a slower, more powerful rotation for the drum.
Drum: This is a cylindrical spool that the cable is wound around. As the motor and gearbox rotate, the drum winds or unwinds the cable.