Which device prevents the weight of a large, heavy cable from causing uncontrolled unreeling?

Which device prevents the weight of a large, heavy cable from causing uncontrolled unreeling?

• A. Brake clamps
• B. Reel Brakes
• C. Mandrels
• D. Clevis

Answer: (B)

Controlling the unwinding of a heavy cable starts with stopping the reel’s rotation. When a long, heavy cable pulls, the reel tends to turn and feed out cable rapidly unless something resists that motion. A reel brake provides friction directly on the reel, creating braking torque to slow or stop rotation and keep payout smooth and safe. Brake clamps would grab the cable itself rather than restrain the reel’s rotation, so they don’t prevent uncontrolled unreeling. Mandrels support the cable on the core but don’t provide braking. Clevises are mounting or attachment points and don’t influence reel motion. That’s why the device that best prevents uncontrolled unreeling is the reel brake.

Controlling the unwinding of a heavy cable starts with stopping the reel’s rotation. When a long, heavy cable pulls, the reel tends to turn and feed out cable rapidly unless something resists that motion. A reel brake provides friction directly on the reel, creating braking torque to slow or stop rotation and keep payout smooth and safe.

Brake clamps would grab the cable itself rather than restrain the reel’s rotation, so they don’t prevent uncontrolled unreeling. Mandrels support the cable on the core but don’t provide braking. Clevises are mounting or attachment points and don’t influence reel motion. That’s why the device that best prevents uncontrolled unreeling is the reel brake.