The ZECA 9006/314 reel (Static Discharge / Grounding / Bonding Reel) is a specialized device designed for the effective extension and automatic retraction of a grounding cable in industrial environments with elevated electrostatic risk. Equipped with a durable and flexible PVC cable with a cross-section of 1 x 6 mm2 and a length of 20 feet, it enables efficient discharge of static electricity from vehicles, tankers, containers, and other equipment - greatly enhancing safety in areas with explosion or fire hazards.

A grounding reel gives a controlled path to earth so that charge cannot build up and jump as a spark. That matters wherever flammable liquids, vapours or combustible powders are transferred: the act of pumping or pouring generates static, and a spark at the wrong moment is an ignition source. Clamping the reel's jaws to the drum, tanker or vessel before transfer bonds it to ground, and the reel takes the cable back afterwards instead of leaving it on the floor. At 20 ft this is the shorter of the two, for drums, kegs, portable containers and bench-scale transfer where the vessel is close to the mounting point.

The robust housing made from technopolymer ensures resistance to mechanical damage, corrosion, and chemical exposure. With two operating modes - ratchet and continuous, the reel can be easily adapted to specific applications. The unit features strong steel clamp jaws, a galvanized steel return spring, and a durable mounting bracket, making it a reliable tool for industries such as manufacturing, transportation, and logistics.

Technical Specifications:

• Cable length: 23 ft (7 m) total, of which 20 ft (6 m) winds on the reel
• Cable type: H05 V-F, PVC, 500V insulation
• Cable cross-section: 1 x 10 AWG (6 mm2), single conductor
• Cable diameter: 7/32" (5.5 mm)
• Collector insulation voltage: 2.5 kV
• Collector capacity: 10 A
• Protection rating: Nema 2 / IP42
• Operating temperature: 23 to 122 F (-5 to +50 C)
• Cable type: Highly flexible PVC
• Housing material: Technopolymer
• Return spring: Galvanized steel
• Clamp jaws: Galvanized steel
• Clamp: type 314, 150 A, overall length 6.9" (176 mm)

The reel offers two operating modes:

Ratchet Mode 7A

Allows the cable to be locked at a selected length for precise and safe grounding setup. The ratchet mechanism activates every 50 cm with an audible "click." This mode is recommended when working with pneumatic or electric tools where a stable cable position is necessary.

Continuous Mode 7B

The ratchet lock is deactivated, enabling smooth extension and automatic retraction of the cable without stops. Ideal for dynamic applications such as use with winches, overhead cranes, or lifting systems. After use, the cable should be retracted carefully - do not let it snap back to avoid injury.

Grounding reels are delivered with the cable stop device (mode 7) enabled.

Applications of grounding reels:

Warehouses

Used where electrostatic discharge protection is required during the transfer of flammable materials. The grounding reel ensures continuous grounding throughout the logistics process and is essential for meeting workplace safety standards in hazardous zones.

Refineries and Chemical Industry

Prevents sparking and electrostatic discharge during the transfer of flammable liquids. Its durable, chemical-resistant construction ensures long service life. Improves safety and ease of use in EX-rated zones.

Tanker Transport and Marine Industry

Provides effective grounding for fuel tankers, chemical containers, and tanks transported by sea. The reel performs reliably even in harsh weather conditions. Enables quick connection and safe disconnection of the grounding cable. For tanker and rail-car bonding, check the reach you need against the cable length below - ZECA builds longer and higher-rated grounding reels than the two we stock, and we can quote them.

Use cases for grounding reels:

• Electrical Industry: In manufacturing plants, power stations, and substations, grounding reels are used for grounding machinery and safely discharging static electricity.
• Chemical Industry: Grounding of tanks, pipes, and pumps in areas with electrostatic hazards during chemical processes.
• Electronics Laboratories: Protect sensitive equipment by safely discharging static.
• Industrial Facilities: Prevent static discharge during production and packaging processes (e.g., dairies, breweries, food processing plants).
• Chemical Labs: Safe grounding during manipulation of volatile substances.
• Transportation & Refineries: Ground tankers, fuel lines, and equipment to prevent sparks and explosions.
• Research Labs: Ground workstations and electronic devices in precision environments.
• Military Facilities: Ground communications equipment, generators, and other devices where electrical safety is critical.

Grounding reels also known as bonding reels or static discharge reels are a key component in ensuring electrical safety in environments where there is a risk of electrostatic discharge. Their use helps minimize the risk of electric shock, damage to electrical equipment, and potential hazards to personnel.

Bonding and grounding is a life-safety function. Follow your site's procedure and the applicable standard - in the USA that is normally NFPA 77 for static electricity and NFPA 30 for flammable liquids - and check continuity to a verified ground rather than assuming it.

Made in Italy by ZECA, a manufacturer of retractable reels and workshop equipment since 1929.

Longer reach? See the 4106/314 (52 ft). Browse all static discharge grounding reels or the full reel range. Supported in the USA by Tool Balancers USA.