Frequently Asked Questions

A reel takeup machine winds wire or cable onto a reel. It is used in manufacturing plants, distribution warehouses, and anywhere that wire or cable needs to be rewound from one reel to another, wound onto reels after production, or respooled from bulk. Graham International takeup machines use variable speed drive motors with tension-holding brake systems to wind cable evenly and consistently. Our machines handle reels from 54 inches to 96 inches in diameter with pulling capacities ranging from 4,000 to 40,000 pounds, depending on the model. Every takeup machine we build features wearproof axle saddles, heavy-duty tubular steel frame construction, adjustable floor lock brakes, and easy-rolling wheels and casters.

SD (Single Depth) racking is loaded from one side — ideal for wall-mounted installations, holds up to 3,500 lbs per reel. IR (Island Rack / Double Depth) racking is loadable from both sides, ideal for freestanding island configurations. TR (Track and Trolley Double Depth) uses a track-and-trolley system for double-depth storage from the front only, handles up to 5,000 lbs per reel.

Racking installation requirements depend on the system type. SD racking upright frames must be anchored to the wall. Center Hung Double Depth (CHDD) systems must be anchored to the floor. Your racking quote will include all necessary hardware and detailed installation specifications.

Graham International manufactures four measuring devices based on wire and cable diameter capacity: M100 — measures up to 1 inch. M200 / M200WD — measures up to 2 inches. M300 — measures up to 3 inches. M400 — measures up to 4 inches. All models feature knurled steel measuring wheels on precision ball bearings.

Paralleling reels allow contractors to transport and pay out multiple cables simultaneously from a single reel structure. Instead of setting up separate reels for each cable run, a paralleling reel holds multiple compartments — we build them in 1, 3, 4, and 5 compartment configurations.

Lead times vary depending on the equipment type, model, and any custom configurations. When you receive your quote, it will include an estimated lead time for your specific order. If you are working against a project deadline, let us know upfront.

Graham International is committed to making sure your team can operate our equipment safely and effectively. Contact us to discuss training options for your specific equipment purchase. We are also available by phone for ongoing support questions after your equipment is installed.

Our equipment covers a wide range. Takeup machines handle reels from 54 inches in diameter and 34 inches wide (CJ2TM) up to 96 inches in diameter and 54 inches wide (H10T series). Payout machines go even larger — the H15P handles reels up to 108 inches in diameter and 72 inches wide with a 15,000-pound lift capacity. Coiling machines accommodate collapsible coilers from 10 inches to 20 inches (heavy duty), with custom sizes built on request. If you have an unusual reel size, call us. We have been solving non-standard problems for over 40 years.

The Graham Advantage is what separates our equipment from everything else in this industry. It is a set of standard features and design principles built into every machine and racking system we manufacture. The highlights: wearproof axle saddles and turntable spindle mounts on all machines (standard, not optional), tension-holding brake motors rated for 10,000+ pounds of pull on H-Series machines, heavy-duty tubular steel frame construction, safety foot switches, adjustable floor lock brakes, dedicated axle shaft and bushing storage, large steel tool trays, and the strongest warranty in the industry — 2 years on components, 5 years on craftsmanship.

Every piece of Graham International equipment is covered by a 2-year (24-month) component warranty from the invoice date and a 5-year craftsmanship warranty. The component warranty covers all units and equipment against defects in material and workmanship under normal use and service, including third-party manufacturers' components. The craftsmanship warranty covers defects in workmanship for five full years. This industry-leading warranty coverage reflects our confidence in every machine we build.

Yes. Graham International ships equipment worldwide. All equipment is manufactured at our facility in Michigan, USA, and shipped to your location. Contact us for international shipping quotes and lead times.

Absolutely. Customization is a core part of what we do. Reel racking systems are configured to your warehouse dimensions, ceiling height, reel sizes, and weight requirements. Takeup and payout machines are available with a range of options including stop-to-length capability, power wire traverse, automatic wire traverse, measuring devices, paralleling wire guides, collapsible coilers, paralleling reels, and more. If you need something specific, call us.

Power requirements vary by model. Payout machines with hydraulic lift systems typically run on 220-volt single-phase power. Powered coiling machines use DC or hydraulic drive systems. Specific voltage and phase requirements are provided on each product's specification sheet and included in your quote.

Wearproof materials are engineered inserts and saddle surfaces installed at every point where metal would otherwise grind against metal during normal operation — axle saddles, turntable spindle mounts, and racking trolley inserts. These materials absorb the friction and wear that would otherwise damage your axle shafts, reel hubs, and racking components.

To quote a reel racking system accurately, we need: (1) your ceiling height or desired rack height, (2) the maximum reel diameter you need to store, (3) the maximum reel width, (4) the maximum reel weight per position, and (5) whether you need overhead storage. If you have warehouse floor dimensions, send those along too.