CommScope ConQuest Conduit Construction - Manual (Page 43)

Pulling Cable into Conduit 5.5
Pulling Multiple Cables
Back Tension
Back tension is the amount of force needed to pull cable directly from the reel. Since the amount of cable on the
reel, the weight of the reel and the friction of the reel on its setup through bar will vary, it is difficult to provide a rule
of thumb for back tension. Attaching a spring scale or dynamometer to the cable and then pulling the cable with the
measuring device can determine back tension
The best method for reducing back tension is to have a reel tender (worker) to assist the reel with spinning and pay-off.
Do not pull cable from reel by hand.
Reel Braking
If required, use an arbor brake with very light pressure – just enough to prevent the reel from over spinning. Alternate
– use a wood board such as a 2 x 4. Do not use hands to stop a spinning reel – serious injury could
result.
NOTE: It is recommended to use a piece of lumber (2” x 4” / 5.08 cm x 10.16 cm) to stop or regulate the spinning
reel.