Double End Reels / Uncoilers

Used Double End Reels / Uncoilers for Sale

A double end reel (often called a double uncoiler or two-station uncoiler) is a coil payoff system built for fast changeovers. It features two mandrels or two coil positions so one coil can be staged while the other is running. In press lines, that staging capability can reduce downtime during coil changes and help maintain consistent throughput, especially on shorter runs or frequent material swaps.

Double end reels are commonly installed at the front of a coil-fed press line, typically feeding into a straightener and servo feeder. The primary benefit is workflow: load the next coil, thread it, and prepare the lead end while production continues on the active coil, then switch stations when it is time to change.

What is a double end reel?

A double end reel is an uncoiling system with two coil stations that rotate into position. One station pays off coil into the line while the second station holds the next coil ready. When the active coil is depleted, the reel indexes (or rotates) to bring the staged coil into the payoff position, minimizing the time spent waiting for forklifts, mandrel expansion, threading, and setup.

Why manufacturers use double end reels

  • Faster coil changeovers: Stage the next coil while the line is running.
  • Higher uptime: Less downtime between coils means better throughput.
  • Better operator workflow: More predictable changeover steps and less scrambling during a stop.
  • Consistent strip presentation: Helps keep coil handling organized in front of the straightener.
  • Great for frequent coil swaps: Ideal when jobs change often or coil lengths are shorter.

Where double end reels fit in a press line

A common layout is: double end reel / uncoiler → straightener → servo feeder → press. The uncoiler provides controlled payoff, the straightener removes coil set, and the servo feeder indexes material accurately into the die. The double-station design helps keep that front end ready for the next coil without stopping the entire process for extended setup.

Key features you may see

  • Two mandrels or coil stations: One runs while the other stages the next coil.
  • Mandrel expansion: Expands into coil ID for secure holding (manual, pneumatic, or hydraulic depending on design).
  • Drag/brake control: Helps prevent overrun and maintains controlled payoff tension.
  • Peeler / hold-down / threading aids: Helps manage coil set and improves threading into the straightener.
  • Rotation/indexing mechanism: Moves the staged coil into the active payoff position.

Key specs that matter

  • Coil weight capacity: Maximum coil weight per station.
  • Coil width range: Minimum and maximum coil width supported.
  • Coil ID and mandrel range: Common IDs (such as 16 in, 20 in, 24 in) must match the mandrel expansion range.
  • Coil OD range: Outside diameter affects containment and payoff behavior.
  • Payoff direction and line height: Must align with straightener entry height and layout.
  • Speed and control needs: Depends on line speed and whether controlled tension is critical.

Double end reel vs single uncoiler

A single uncoiler runs one coil at a time and requires changeover steps (load, expand, thread) to happen during downtime. A double end reel allows those steps to be prepared on the second station while production continues, reducing changeover time. For shops with frequent coil changes, the productivity gain can be significant.

FAQs: Double end reels / uncoilers

What is the main benefit of a double end reel?

Faster coil changeovers. You can stage the next coil while the current coil is running, then switch stations when needed.

Do double end reels work with straighteners and servo feeders?

Yes. They are commonly used at the front of coil-fed press lines feeding into a straightener and then a servo feeder.

Are double end reels powered?

Many are powered for controlled payoff and station indexing/rotation, but configurations vary. Controlled braking/drag is common to prevent coil overrun.

What causes coil overrun on an uncoiler?

Overrun can happen when braking/drag is insufficient or improperly set, especially with heavier coils and higher line speeds. Proper tension control and braking help maintain stable payoff.

What information helps match a double end reel to a press line?

  • Coil weight, width, ID, and OD ranges
  • Material thickness and stiffness
  • Line speed and changeover frequency
  • Straightener entry height and line layout
  • Desired control features (brake/drag, peeler, threading aids)