342 BELL SYSTEM TECHNICAL JOURNAL 



Handling cables from the reel yard to the loading platform was a 

 very serious problem, particularly in the winter during snow storms. 

 This was taken care of by the installation of overhead cranes for pick- 

 ing up reels and placing them on the platform. 



The lifting mechanism for empty reels consists of a solenoid-operated 

 plunger controlled by the crane operator. The reels are turned on 

 the side, the plunger inserted in the bushing and the operation of the 

 solenoid throws out two lugs which prevent the plunger from being 

 withdrawn and lift the reel. When the reel is to be released, it is 

 put down on an inclined surface which turns it back on to its flanges. 

 This method of lifting empty reels permits them to be stacked one on 

 top of the other and saves storage space. 



The lifting mechanism for full reels consists of two side arms with 

 lugs moved horizontally by means of a double-threaded screw and a 

 motor controlled by the crane operator. With this device the crane 

 operator can pick up and put down any reel without the assistance of 

 a ground man. 



Figs. 14 to 20 show insulating, twisting and stranding machinery, 

 lead presses and cable reel yard with cranes and special lifting equip- 

 ment for both empty and full reels. 



The methods of cable manufacture are ever changing. What has 

 been described as strictly up to date today will, doubtless, on account 

 of new developments be superseded by new methods, new equipment 

 and new designs, so that the Cable Plant of the future will be different 

 from and more efficient than that of the present. 



