A sectional cable machine uses 2.5 metre or 4.5 metre lengths of cable coupled together by male and female fittings, fed through a rotating drive head. The operator joins sections together as the cable advances and uncouples them as it is withdrawn. The advantage is a smaller, lighter machine for the same overall reach compared with a drum, and the ability to swap to different cable diameters during the job. The technique is widely used on larger 150mm to 225mm sewers and lateral drains in commercial sites. Operators must follow PUWER 1998 and wear cut-resistant gloves, since coupled cables present pinch points at every connection. Cables should be cleaned, dried and oiled between uses to extend service life.
Sectional cable machine
Drain cleaning machine using detachable cable sections coupled together.
