What types of hose and cable reels are there?
Automatic reels are available in many different designs, which are used on construction sites, in workshops, in horticulture, in agriculture, in industry or even in the private sector. The following products differ depending on the area of application:
- Automatic cable and hose reels work with a spring mechanism and are ideal for workshops and industry. They transport compressed air to impact wrenches, paint spray guns and other pneumatic tools.
- Water hose reels are suitable for gardening, vehicle cleaning and cleaning work. Stainless steel models in particular can withstand higher temperatures of up to 70 °C or 130 °C.
- Cable reels for 230 V supply power to electric tools. Models from ELMAG offer 10 to 25 metres of cable length, can withstand loads of up to 2000 watts when unwinding, up to 3500 watts when the cable is fully unwound and are equipped with overload and thermal protection.
- 400 V high-current cable reels are designed for powerful machines. They deliver up to 5000 watts of power and are ideal for welding equipment, construction site power distributors and industrial machinery.
- Data reels (DATAFLUX series) transport network and communication cables. This variant is the ideal choice for temporary IT installations, event technology and mobile data connections in particular.
- INDUSTRIAL reels with ATEX certification are approved for use in potentially explosive atmospheres. They work with various media, such as compressed air, water, oil, petrol or welding gases. These hose reels are made of painted steel or corrosion-resistant stainless steel.
- Electrically driven reels reel at the touch of a button and can handle hose lengths of up to 60 metres. The motor saves physical effort, especially with heavy hoses.
Buying hose and cable reels: What you should look out for
A well-chosen hose reel makes daily work noticeably easier and increases safety in the workplace. However, the variety of models, designs and technical specifications does not always make the decision easy. These selection criteria will help you to find the optimum reel for your requirements:
- Transport medium determines the type: first determine what is to be transported: Compressed air applications require different hoses than water supply or oil hydraulics. Power supply requires cable reels with the correct voltage and data lines require special DATAFLUX versions.
- Calculate the range with a reserve: Determine the maximum distance from the planned installation point to the furthest working point. Add at least 20% room for manoeuvre. For example, a hose length of 10 to 15 metres is sufficientfor workshop areas, 20 to 25 metres opens up larger areas and a hose length of up to 60 metres usually covers industrial halls well.
- Do not underestimate the pressure load: Check the required operating pressure for your application. Conventional compressed air models can handle 15 bar. Reinforced versions can handle 20 bar. If you are unsure, our experts will be happy to provide you with the necessary information.
- Diameter influences flow rate: The inner diameter of the hose determines the volume that can be transported. Consider whether you need the hose reel for hand-held pneumatic tools or whether larger volumes are required for sandblasting equipment or industrial processes.
- Material quality determines durability: Lightweight plastic housings score points with their favourable price, steel constructions, on the other hand, can withstand more extreme loads, while stainless steel versions defy corrosion and chemical attacks. For outdoor installation, also pay attention to UV stability.
- Backstop protects against injuries: A reliable return brake stops uncontrolled whipping back of the hose and is therefore not a luxury, but a safety standard. The ELMAG slow-motion solution provides particularly effective damping and can be easily retrofitted to numerous models.
- Check the mounting options: Consider the mounting options at the planned location. Wall mounting makes optimum use of existing surfaces, ceiling mounting leaves the floor free, swivelling mounts create freedom of movement, while mobile stands allow use regardless of location.
- Degree of protection for electric retractors : Check whether theretractor is to be installed in a dry or wet environment and also check the overload and overheating protection.
- Connections and extensions: Ensure compatibility with existing equipment. Quick-release couplings, for example, speed up tool changes considerably and the cable or hose reel must be compatible with the compressor or device connection. ELMAG offers a comprehensive range of accessories for every type of connection.
High-quality compressed air hoses for reliable transport
In order to achieve optimum work results with compressed air, not only the right compressor is important, but also a high-quality hose. Our PU and PVC compressed air hoses ensure an optimum flow of liquid and gaseous media. They can withstand pressures of up to 15 bar and are extremely durable. You can also find the right accessories such as couplings, nozzles and fittings for your needs in our online shop.
PVC hose
- Perlon armoured, transparent
- Pressure-resistant polyester core
- Largely resistant to oil and petrol, suitable for use with foodstuffs, silicone-free, UV-resistant
- Temperature range min. -20 °C max. +65 °C
- Operating pressure max. 15 bar at 20 °C
- Displacement-resistant synthetic fabric, particularly suitable for compressed air and liquid materials - in compliance with the European directive:
- in accordance with EU 2007 / 19 / EC and EU 10 / 2011 (1) A-B-C
- in accordance with DIN EN ISO 5775: 2008 and DIN EN ISO 5774
PU hose
- Fabric-reinforced
- High abrasion resistance, flexibility, kink resistance
- Tear, tensile and impact resistance
- Low weight
- UV-resistant, weather-resistant
- Silicone-free
- Temperature range: min. -20 °C max. +140 °C
Special highlights of ELMAG hose and cable reels
Sophisticated design and innovative details characterise ELMAG products. From patented safety technology to ATEX certification - our reels impress with these highlights:
- Slow motion technology: This unique development reliably prevents dangerous kickbacks. Hoses and cables are wound up gently and in a controlled manner. The dreaded whiplash effect is a thing of the past. Retrofitting is easy with all ELMAG models.
- Materials for generations: Reinforced plastic or steel constructions outlast decades of continuous use. Stainless steel versions withstand corrosive substances and chemical loads. UV-resistant components prove their worth outdoors. This quality pays off.
- ATEX approval for critical areas: The INDUSTRIE product line carries ATEX certification in accordance with EU Directive 94/9/EC. Use in potentially explosive atmospheres is therefore permitted. Paint shops, petrol stations and the chemical industry rely on this safety.
- Wide range for every purpose: From compact hobby models to motorised industrial giants. For compressed air, water, electricity or data transmission. Manufactured in plastic, steel or stainless steel. The right solution is guaranteed.
The right choice of hose reel or cable reel depends on your individual requirements. Our specialist advisors know the technical details and will support you with the medium, dimensioning, installation planning and suitable accessories. Together we will find the right solution for your workshop, business or construction site.
Frequently asked questions
How does the hose reel work?
The principle is based on a pre-tensioned spiral spring in the reel. When the hose is pulled out, the spring is tensioned further. A mechanism engages automatically and holds the desired position. A short, jerky pull releases the lock - the spring force automatically retracts the hose. High-quality models have a return brake to prevent uncontrolled retraction. ELMAG slow-motion technology provides particularly effective damping and ensures smooth winding. The process runs purely mechanically without electricity or batteries.
What alternatives are there to hose reels?
A manual hose reel with a hand crank costs less, but requires strength and time. Wall hooks or loop holders are suitable for short hoses, but require a lot of space. Hose trolleys with wheels allow mobile transport, but lack the self-retracting function. Hose baskets are simple, but cause kinks and material damage. For professional applications, automatic reels save time, ensure safety and keep things organised.
Where do I install a hose or cable reel?
The ideal location combines several requirements: central location with accessibility to all work areas, sufficient free space for arm swivelling, load-bearing wall or ceiling for secure anchoring and protection against mechanical impact. Wall mounting at a height of 1.5-2 metres is the most common solution. It saves floor space and enables ergonomic working. Ceiling mounting completely clears the floor and is ideal for workshops with limited wall space, for example. The hose comes from above without obstruction. Important: Check the ceiling load-bearing capacity beforehand.
SKU: 42293 Automatic hose reel EUROREEL AIR 10/15 15 mHybrid polymer 10 x 15 mm 15 m 0.9 m 15 bar 400x200x380 mm 7 kg Show more€ 166,80€ 166,80 Incl. Tax€ 139,00 Excl. TaxIn stock, immediately available
SKU: 42297 Automatic hose reel EUROREEL AIR OPEN 15 SPolyurethane 10 x 15 mm 15 m 3 m 20 bar -5 to +60 °C 520x380x240 mm 15 kg Show more€ 238,80€ 238,80 Incl. Tax€ 199,00 Excl. TaxNormal-Price
SKU: 42166 Automatic hose reel ROLL AIR PROFI 15 8x12 mmpolyurethane 8 x 12 mm 15 m 2 m 15 bar 5.5 kg Plastic Show more€ 276,00€ 276,00 Incl. Tax€ 230,00 Excl. TaxIn stock, immediately available
SKU: 42171 Automatic cable rewinder ROLL ELECTRIC PROFI 230/18230 V H05VV-F 3 x 1.5 mm2 18 m 1,3 m 800 W 2000 W 20 IP Show more€ 250,80€ 250,80 Incl. Tax€ 209,00 Excl. TaxNormal-Price
SKU: 42276 Automatic cable rewinder 'H07RN-F''ROLL MAJOR PLUS 230/20 3x2.5 mm²
SKU: 42193 Automatic hose reel ROLL AIR MEGA 20 10x15 mmpolyurethane 10 x 15 mm 20 m 2 m 15 bar 8.3 kg Plastic Show more€ 358,80€ 358,80 Incl. Tax€ 299,00 Excl. TaxNormal-Price
SKU: 42299 Automatic cable rewinder EUROREEL ELECTRIC 20/230230 V H05VV-F 3 x 1,5 mm2 20 m 1000 W 2000 W 350x180x325 mm 5.8 kg Show more€ 152,40€ 152,40 Incl. Tax€ 127,00 Excl. TaxIn stock, immediately available
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SKU: 42292 Automatic hose reel EUROREEL AIR 8/10 10 mHybrid polymer 8 x 12 mm 10 m 1.5 m 15 bar 350x180x330 mm 5 kg Show more€ 118,80€ 118,80 Incl. Tax€ 99,00 Excl. TaxIn stock, immediately available
SKU: 42285 Automatic cable reel 'H07RN-F' ROLL MAJOR PLUS 400/15 5x2.5 mm
SKU: 42170 Automatic cable rewinder ROLL ELECTRIC JUNIOR 230/10230 V H05VV-F 3 x 1.5 mm2 10 m 1,3 m 800 W 2000 W 24 IP Show more€ 219,60€ 219,60 Incl. Tax€ 183,00 Excl. TaxIn stock, immediately available
SKU: 43000 INDUSTRIE hose reel '540/12' for compressed air and water 70°C, 20 m, 3/4’, 20bar3/4 inches 19 x 26.5 mm 20 m 20 bar IT 1” ET 3/4” Show more€ 1.302,00€ 1.302,00 Incl. Tax€ 1.085,00 Excl. TaxIn stock, immediately available
