GMP has always prided itself on providing the widest range of cable blocks for aerial utility work. Whether you need a cable block for overlash work or new construction, GMP has the right cable block to do the job well. This blog, the second in a two-part series, covers the best blocks specifically designed for overlash work. The first part of this blog was dedicated to blocks for new construction on bare strand between utility poles.
The B Overlash Block
When it comes to overlash, the B Overlash Block (70336) is the definition of efficiency and effectiveness. It allows you to overlash cable bundles up to 2 inches/51 mm, and its sturdy steel block is zinc plated for corrosion resistance. The block is equipped with a polymeric anti-friction roller for optimal rolling and a lever actuated keeper bar, which encloses the cable in the block and keeps it from jumping out.
The B Overlash Block is easy to raise and attach with GMP’s Wire Raising Tool (06355). With the lever in the vertical position, just hook the block onto the wire raising tool through the hole in the lever and raise the block to hook it onto the strand. Then swing the lever to the horizontal position with the tool to close and lock the keeper bar into place.
The 4” Overlash Roller
The 4” Overlash Roller (87210) is a great economical option that is still built to GMP’s demanding standards of quality. It’s a simple and effective tool with a steel frame that is painted for corrosion resistance. The roller is made made from industrial conveyor bearing material for high abrasion resistance with low rolling friction. GMP also offers a sister product in the 2.75” (70mm) Overlash Roller (87213) for overlashing to cable bundles up to that size.
The F Cable Block
The F Cable Block (08093) is a GMP legacy design, perfect for supporting any cable up to 2 3/4 in. (70mm) diameter on 1/4 – 3/8 in. (6-10mm) dia. suspension strand during new construction or while overlashing to existing lashed cable. The frame and sheave are made from 100% heat treated aluminum alloy, and the frame is powder-coated for maximum corrosion resistance.
Just like many of the new construction blocks, the F Cable Block comes with a cam lock mechanism. The cam holds the block firmly in position when you are pulling the cable in. The cam releases during lashing so that the block can travel ahead of the lasher towards the end of the span. To keep the cable safely in the block, an optional keeper bar (70913) is also available.
The Clip On Cable Block
The Clip On Cable Block (87265) is used to support cable up to 1 in. (2.54 cm) during cable pull out, and it fits over cable bundles up to 2 in. (51mm). It has a welded steel frame tha tis zinc plated for corrosion resistance. The clip-on design lets you quickly and easily get the block onto the strand. GMP sells the Clip On Block in packages of ten each.
Don’t forget that while these GMP cable blocks are designed for overlash work, they are all capable of being used for new construction too.
Since 1936, General Machine Products has been a leader in supplying the telecom industry. Visit us today at www.gmptools.com or call us at 215-357-5500 to learn more about our product offerings.
