Industry Report
Why You Can’t Afford Not to Use Parallel Wire Reels
by Jeff Kunkel, EA Chair
Submitted by Border States.
Parallel reels are a no-brainer for electrical contractors who want to increase profitability.
Wire paralleling significantly reduces the amount of labor and time needed to install a run of power and
control cable. If you’re not using parallel reels yet, here are three reasons you can’t afford to ignore them any longer.
1) The labor savings are huge.
Compared to a traditional pull, wire paralleling services can help you complete runs in 50%–70% less time. These savings result from the combination of cutting, paralleling and pre-installing pulling heads. Since every minute of your electricians’ time is valuable, outsourcing these tasks saves money and helps you increase profits.
2) Parallel reels help you stay on schedule.
Saving time with parallel reels is great for profitability and client satisfaction. Parallel reels help you complete jobs faster and more efficiently.
3) Working in tight spaces is easier.
Combining multiple pulls of wire onto one reel helps you navigate in narrow areas of a job site, reduce waste and improve safety. Instead of four reels and four stands, you can have a single reel and stand. With this setup, you can often complete the pull closer to the point of install.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When should I use a parallel reel?
A: Parallel reels are primarily used for longer runs of power and control cable. If you’re running wire that’s 1/0 MCM or larger and 100 feet or longer, wire paralleling is almost certainly a smart choice.
Q: What’s the benefit of layering versus using a specialty parallel reel?
A: There isn’t one! They do the same job. Layering combines wire for you on a reel. Compartmentalized reels keep it separate but safe for a clean payout.
Q: How much wire fits on a parallel reel?
A: Reels come in different sizes, so it depends on the reel. Compartmentalized reels hold four legs or conductors.
Q: How else can I save time on wire pulls?
A: If you’re planning to use parallel reels, pre-installed pulling heads are an easy way to save even more time. We can crimp the pulling head onto the wire for you, so it’s ready to pull immediately.
Explore your wire paralleling options
Contact your local Border States location to talk about wire paralleling and other services that could benefit you.
https://locations.borderstates.com
The Electrical Association is proud to have Border States as a 2023 Yearlong Sponsor. With help from our Yearlong Sponsors, we are able to provide valuable programs and resources to help our electrical contractors succeed. Please remember to call them first when you purchase products and services.