An electric reel is a multipurpose tool that consists of a large wheel that winds a wire. The rotation of the wheel either feeds the wire out when moving in one direction or draws the wire back when the rotational direction is reversed. Dual wheel electric reels are applicable in cases where pneumatic as well as electric power feeds are required. In the welding industry, the electric reel is useful to conveniently roll out long twin line oxy-acetylene and T-grade welding gas hoses. Many workplace accidents and injuries are caused by wires and hoses lying on the floor, which can cause people to trip or get shocked. The wires may even get entangled in other equipment. The electric reel provides a safe alternative to retrieving and storing hoses and wires, offering safety for the workmen as well as the wire and hoses.

Features and working of an electric reel

The electric reel may have either a single hose wheel or a dual hose wheel. In a single hose assembly, only one continuous wire is wound around the wheel, while in a dual hose reel, there are two individual wires rolled around each section of the reel. Thus, an air hose and an electrical cord can be accommodated on a single electric reel. The expanded mounting heavy duty steel base and support posts provide a stable platform for the reel. Each reel is independently powered.

The approximate wire length that the electric reel is capable of handling is around 50 to 300 feet for wires having around 10 to 16 gauge. The auto-rewind feature efficiently rolls back the hose. The functioning of the reel is most often powered by factory-matched, cartridge-style spring motors. The reel generally has a brass NPT swivel inlet with hardened steel axles and lubricated precision bearings. The swivel inlets offer smooth issue-less performance without any sudden entanglement. When the hose or wire is being rolled, a multi-position locking ratchet rigidly holds the hose at the required length. The ratchet is usually made of non-corrosive stainless steel and zinc plated to increase durability.

Some electric reels have a direct bevel gear drive with an open drum slot design. Pneumatic tools have an air consumption of around 200 to 300 pounds per Square inch (PSI). Welding reels have either a manually operated bevel gear hand crank or a motorized bevel gear retraction system. The hand crank is made removable to save space during tool storage. The braking system uses friction efficiently to either brake or lock the drum. Consistent performance of the reel is ensured with the use of self-aligning pillow block bearings.

Spring driven retractable power cord reels minimize entanglement of cords and also automatically rewind to enhance productivity and safety.

These reels are also commonly used in the fishing industry to feed out fishing lines. These reels are capable of holding large fish even at depths of around 500 fathoms. The movements of these reels are powered by approximately 24/36 volt DC motors, having stainless steel shafts and aircraft stainless steel bearings that ensure minimal friction during operation. Nickel plated spools can be optionally used for better performance.

What to look for in an electric reel

To provide added stability to the reel, guide arms are provided that are attached to a floor, wall, or even an overhead support. Rigidity and strength is further enhanced with the incorporation of rolled edges and ribbed discs.

The body of the reel is usually powder coated to prevent corrosion and attack by rust. When the reel is not being used for a long period of time, a lock pin having a long handle is used to secure the device. Electric fishing reels generally have isolated electrical systems to lower the chances of the user receiving a shock. Additionally, for uninterrupted performance, the satellite battery is automatically recharged with alternator current. Since the reel may function with a powerful motor, there is bound to be a certain amount of noise being emitted, both from the motor as well as from the rotating wheel. This can be detrimental to the user’s ears in the long run. Most electric reels nowadays are designed to function with minimal noise.

One reputed manufacturer of electric reels is Cox Reel.