Selecting a payout tube type depends mostly on product characteristics. Generally, the larger the product diameter, the larger the tube diameter.

REELEX recommends that all products larger than 0.20 inches in diameter (⌀ 5 mm) should use REELEX II or REELEX AIR. These larger tube types should also be used with products that have inherent twist (such as twisted-pair cables), or are relatively inflexible.

REELEX I payout tubes are recommended for flexible products less than 0.20 inches in diameter (⌀ 5 mm) and coil sizes less than 12 inches diameter (⌀ 305 mm).

REELEX I.5 or EcoCore tubes are between REELEX I and REELEX II / AIR and are recommended for products less than 0.20 inches in diameter (⌀ 5 mm).

Payout tube length depends on coil diameter and mandrel size. Generally the smallest tube size that may be used should protrude at least 1 inch past the inside of the coil wall. The longest tube that may be used should not exceed 50% of the coil diameter (in other words, should not protrude past the center of the coil).

For a guide and selection chart based on coil and mandrel sizes, please download the guide here: