What must be considered when calculating the load on a snatch block?

When calculating the load on a snatch block, the angle of the line passing through the snatch block is critical. The angle at which the load is applied affects the amount of force that is directed through the block. As the angle increases, the tension in the rope can also increase significantly due to the geometry involved. This is often described as the "load effect" where the load increases based on the angle of pull, leading to a higher overall load on the rigging system than what would be expected if the load were applied vertically. Understanding this relationship is essential for ensuring safety and effectiveness in rigging practices, as exceeding the load capacity of the block can lead to equipment failure or accidents.

Other factors, while they can be relevant in specific contexts, do not have the same direct impact on the calculation of the load on a snatch block as the angle does.