Cable Reels

Cable reels, also known as electrical cord or power reels, are one of several alternatives for providing power to electric hoists.  Multiple conductor power cable is wrapped around a spool drum, which rotates to payout or retract the necessary length of cable for the application.  The reel can be installed in a fixed position or with a swivel or pivot base to allow it different degrees of rotation and cable payout in various directions.

Additional options include ball stops to limit retraction, cable grips to relieve strain on the cord terminals, guard rails for operator and equipment protection, spool locks to prevent rotation under certain conditions, limit switches, ratchets, and cable guides.  Specialty models can be manufactured for hazardous locations or welding applications. 

It is important to note the following:

Cable reels are typically used on short run monorails (less than 100').  Larger reels are available, but may not be as cost effective as festooning or conductor bar systems.

It is not recommended to install cable reels with smaller capacity hoists attached to push type/manual trolleys.  The spring tension of the reel might cause the hoist and trolley to pull back.  It might also add undue strain when trying to maneuver the trolley down the beam.
 

In order to select the proper cable reel it is necessary to determine the following:

• Mechanical Requirements
• Electrical Requirements
• Cable Length Requirements

Mechanical Requirements

In what kind of application will the reel be used?   Stretch, Lift, Drag or Retrieve?

In what type of environment will the reel be used?  (Indoors, outdoors, corrosive atmosphere, etc.).  What is the Duty Cycle?  (How often will the reel have to payout and retract?)  What is the equipment maximum speed?  (Maximum recommended speed is 150' per minute.)

Electrical Requirements

How much amperage is the cable reel expected to handle?  At what voltage?  What will the reel be required to handle:  power, control, or communication signals?  How many total conductors are required?  (Plus an extra for ground).  What gauge (AWG) cable is required?

Cable Length Requirements

Figure out active length (difference between minimum and maximum operating payout) plus inactive length (cable that always stays out of reel) plus safety wrap (cable that stays on reel at max payout) plus hook up length (cable required for termination a both end).  For Stretch applications, also add a sag factor (10% to Active and Inactive lengths).  For Drag or Retrieve applications, add the distance between where the cable lays up to spool center line (maximum of 4').

Below are some of the more popular models and brands of cable reels.  For a more thorough explanation on proper selection, contact our Customer Service Department.  Additional information can also be found at Conductix/Insul 8.

CONDUCTIX / INSUL 8^® 1400 SERIES POWERREEL is popular in medium to heavy-duty industrial applications.  It is composed of heavy duty steel, with a safety yellow powder coat finish and is suitable for lift, drag, stretch and retrieve applications.  It includes a removable 4 roller guide arm and features an automatic locking ratchet for constant tension.

  Conductix Cable Reel Brochure

CONDUCTIX / INSUL 8^® 1900 SERIES POWERREEL is a favorite in the heavy duty performance division.  It is suitable for wet and dry environments, includes a weatherproof slip ring enclosure, has an all-steel construction and safety yellow powder coat finish.  It also includes a safety sealed lifetime lubricated spring motor canister.

  Conductix Cable Reel Brochure

Aero-Motive^® brand Pow-R-Mite^® cable reels are designed for top performance and easy maintenance.  They feature corrosion resistant powder polyester construction.  They also include an adjustable cable guide with anti-lockout feature, a modular collector ring, and a containerized main spring for safe handling.

  Aero-Motive Cable Reel Catalog

Daniel Woodhead^® brand Watertite^® cable reels incorporate a weather and dust resistant enclosure, quick change spring motor, containerized mainspring, and declutching drive hub.  The ratchet lock can also be disengaged for constant tension.  They are suitable for vertical lift, vertical recovery, and drag applications.

  Daniel Woodhead Heavy Duty Cable Reel Brochure

Gleason^® Series "S" Spring Driven Cable Reels are manufactured for direct installation on moving machinery.  They include self-contained slip ring assemblies, which enable the electrical current to transfer to the cable mounted on the rotating spool.

  Gleason S&WB Reel Catalog

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J. Herbert Corporation is a woman owned minority business.