What are the basic reasons for cable reel failure?
1. Mechanical damage
Direct manifestation: The outer sheath of the cable is often torn or fractured, and there are burrs or friction marks on the surface of the non cracked sheath.
Indirect manifestation: There are no signs of damage on the outside of the sheath, but the insulation layer of the wires inside the cable is partially or completely broken. If it is not completely ineffective, it will lead to leakage, tripping, and shutdown. Possible causes include sharp rocks, mine collapse, sharp edges of winch cable drums, and overload.
Corrective measures: Cable drum operators, helpers, and other operators need to understand the properties of soft copper strands and rubber materials inside the cable. There is still a long way to go in identifying product performance and limitations and reducing mechanical damage.
2. The bending radius exceeds the recommended value
When the cable is bent and its bending radius is much smaller than the manufacturer's recommended bending radius, internal components of the cable are prone to mechanical damage. When dragging cables, avoid problems such as twisting, tying, or knotting. Otherwise, the cable loop will become increasingly tight, and the final bending radius will only be twice the diameter of the cable instead of the normal 12 to 16 times. If the bending radius is less than the recommended value for the cable, damage to the wire and insulation layer will occur quickly. Small diameter steel cables can cut their sheaths and/or squeeze the cable core until the insulation layer is damaged. Possible causes: Incorrect drag and drop methods/wiring techniques. Corrective measures: Provide operators with proper training on bending radius knowledge. The use of larger diameter steel cables and slings can reduce operational damage.
3. How to avoid twisting:
Twisting is initially caused by a knot ring, and in most cases, it occurs when pulling the cable from a fixed drum and is not easily released. Twisting can lead to permanent weaknesses. Do not pull the cable loop, it should be slowly unfolded. Keep the cable straight and open it from the wound loop, "rolling" the reel or coil.
