Use spool core to protect cable during pulls

Steven Taylor,

Precision Network Cabling Inc.

Problem

The shape of the T-bar supports in some ceilings can impede a cable pull, and if the cable is pulled with too much force, both the support and cable can be damaged. Also, maneuvering cables around 90o corners can be difficult during a cable pull.

Solution

Use the cardboard core from a cable spool to protect the cable during pulls through T-bar ceilings and around sharp corners.

Procedure

1) Recover the cardboard core from a 1000-foot spool of cable. Slit the core, from top to bottom.

2) When pulling cable through a T-bar ceiling, position the core around the ceiling support so that it covers the T-bar. Then route the cable around the core and above the ceiling. You may have to tape both ends of the core in place.

3) When pulling cable around a sharp corner, position the core around the corner so that the cable will follow a more gradual, rounded path around the corner than it would otherwise follow. Again, you may have to tape both ends of the core in place.

Note: Caution should always be taken when you are pulling through a T-bar ceiling because the T-bar supports are not very strong.

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Slit the core, from top to bottom.

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When pulling cable through a T-bar ceiling, position the core so that the T-bar is not exposed. By using the core, you will protect the ceiling support and the cable.

Steven Taylor is a project manager with Precision Network Cabling Inc. (Culver City, CA).