In the following video, Samantha Koch, applications engineer for Anixter, highlights the 'Dos and Don'ts' of handling and storing cables to protect against damage, increase longevity and decrease down time.
Generally speaking, in terms of fundamental cable handling best practices, the distributor notes that cable reels should be stored indoors on a hard, dry surface. If the cable needs to be stored outside, the reels should be placed on a hard surface, preferably in a well-drained area. Further, the cable’s exposed end should be resealed with plastic, weatherproof caps or tapes; contractors and installers should also keep in mind that some cables are not sunlight resistant and should only be stored indoors.
Listed, Anixter's other cable handling Do's and Don'ts are as follows:
Cable Handling DOs
-- Always load with flanges on edge and chock and block securely.
-- Lower reels from trucks using hydraulic gate, hoist or forklift.
-- Cradle both reel flanges between forks.
-- Reels can be hoisted with a shaft extending through both flanges.
-- When rolling reels, secure the end of cable and roll counterclockwise to how the cable is wrapped.
-- Only stack light reels directly on top of each other using 2x4 spacers or pallets under the bottom flange. For heavier reels, store on surfaces with the flanges vertical. When reels need to be stored for an extended time, use railroad ties to tie them in place.
Cable Handling DON'Ts
-- Never drop reels.
-- Never allow forklifts to touch the cable surface or reel wrap.
-- Do not lift by the top flange.
-- Leave out the spreader bar as the flanges could bend.
-- Roll clockwise or in the direction that unreels the cable.
-- Do not stack hazardously.