MARSHINE offers a complete range of solid and tubular spindle bars designed to work with its zinc-plated mechanical screw jack stabilising stands. Each spindle bar is manufactured for specific load capacities, drum widths, and compatible locking collars, ensuring safe operation across a wide variety of cable installation projects.
What Is a Spindle Bar?
A spindle bar, sometimes called a drum shaft or cable drum axle, is the steel bar inserted through the center of a cable drum. After passing through the drum, each end of the spindle bar is supported by a screw jack stabilising stand. Locking collars are then fitted to prevent the drum from moving sideways during cable payout. Choosing the wrong spindle bar may result in excessive bending, unstable drum support, or unsafe working conditions.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Spindle Bar
Cable Drum Width
The first consideration is the width of the cable drum. A spindle bar that is too short cannot be safely supported, while one that is excessively long may be more difficult to transport and handle.
The spindle bar must be long enough to:
Pass completely through the drum.
Extend beyond both drum flanges.
Rest securely in both screw jack support cups.
Leave enough space for locking collars.
Cable Drum Weight
The spindle bar must have sufficient load capacity to support the combined weight of the cable drum and cable. MARSHINE spindle bars are available with working capacities ranging from 60 KN to 400 KN, making it easy to select a model suited to different installation requirements. Always choose a spindle bar with a rated capacity that exceeds the expected working load.
Spindle Diameter
The spindle diameter must match:
The drum center hole.
The compatible locking collars.
The lifting capacity required.
Larger diameters generally provide greater resistance to bending and are recommended for heavier cable drums.
Solid Spindle Bars
Solid spindle bars are ideal for lighter cable drums and everyday construction work.
Advantages include:
Simple and robust construction;
Excellent durability;
Easy handling;
Cost-effective solution for medium-duty applications;
Tubular Spindle Bars
Tubular spindle bars are engineered for larger cable drums and heavier loads.
Their advantages include:
Higher load capacities;
Better resistance to bending over long spans;
Reduced overall weight compared with a solid bar of the same diameter;
Suitable for demanding utility and transmission projects;
For heavy-duty cable installation, tubular spindle bars provide an excellent balance of strength and handling efficiency.