What does a wire rope sleeve do?

A wire rope sleeve is designed to secure the ends of wire rope around a thimble, which is a type of device used to create a loop at the end of the wire rope. The sleeve is typically made from a strong material like aluminum or brass and is crimped or swaged onto the wire rope to ensure a secure connection. This creates a strong and reliable attachment point, allowing the wire rope to handle loads effectively without slipping or failing at the connection point.

In stagecraft, this functionality is crucial when lifting or rigging equipment, as it ensures that the wire ropes remain secure and can safely support the weight of lighting systems, scenery, and other components used in productions. The integrity of this connection is vital for safety in any rigging setup.

The other options relate to different aspects of stagecraft that do not pertain directly to the function of wire rope sleeves.