Double-Twist Stranding at a Larger Scale: Why the 1600 mm Bow Strander Is Gaining Ground
Release time:
2026-07-22
As cable manufacturers face growing pressure to improve productivity, reduce production costs and maintain consistent conductor quality, the choice of stranding equipment has become increasingly important. For many low-voltage power cable, flexible conductor and cable-core applications, manufacturers are looking beyond conventional single-twist and traditional stranding solutions. The 1600 mm double-twist stranding machine, also commonly known as a 1600 mm bow-type strander, is gaining wider acceptance because it combines high output, stable stranding quality and efficient use of factory space.
As cable manufacturers face growing pressure to improve productivity, reduce production costs and maintain consistent conductor quality, the choice of stranding equipment has become increasingly important.
For many low-voltage power cable, flexible conductor and cable-core applications, manufacturers are looking beyond conventional single-twist and traditional stranding solutions. The 1600 mm double-twist stranding machine, also commonly known as a 1600 mm bow-type strander, is gaining wider acceptance because it combines high output, stable stranding quality and efficient use of factory space.
The changing requirements of conductor production
Cable producers today are expected to handle a broader range of conductor sizes while maintaining accurate lay length, stable tension and reliable reel handling.
Increasing labor costs, tighter delivery schedules and higher quality expectations are also pushing manufacturers toward more automated production systems. A machine must no longer simply rotate and strand the wires. It must control the complete process, including:
- Pay-off tension;
- Wire guidance;
- Stranding pitch;
- Rotational and linear speed;
- Take-up tension;
- Traversing accuracy;
- Acceleration and deceleration;
- Emergency stopping and production restart.
For these reasons, double-twist technology is becoming an increasingly attractive solution for manufacturers seeking higher productivity without compromising process stability.
Why double-twist technology matters
In a double-twist machine, two twists are introduced into the product during each rotation of the bow. Compared with many conventional stranding methods, this principle makes it possible to achieve higher production output with a relatively compact machine arrangement.
The technology offers several important advantages:
- Higher stranding efficiency;
- Reduced production time;
- More compact floor-space requirement;
- Stable and repeatable lay length;
- Lower operator involvement;
- Smooth acceleration and deceleration;
- Consistent take-up and traversing;
- Improved production continuity.
For cable manufacturers producing large quantities of standardized conductors or cable cores, these benefits can translate directly into higher output and lower manufacturing cost per kilometre.
The CABMAC 1600 mm double-twist stranding machine
The CABMAC 1600 mm Double-Twist Stranding Machine is developed for cable manufacturers requiring a robust, accurate and production-oriented solution for larger reels and demanding stranding applications.
Depending on the final configuration, the machine can be used for the production of stranded conductors, flexible conductors, insulated cores and cable assemblies within the specified diameter and cross-section range.
The complete line can be configured with:
- Suitable pay-off systems;
- Tension-control devices;
- Wire or core guiding units;
- Double-twist stranding unit;
- Meter counter;
- Safety enclosure;
- Take-up and traversing system;
- PLC and HMI control;
- Process-data monitoring;
- Fault alarm and diagnostic functions.
The machine is designed not only around rotational speed, but around the stability of the entire production process.
Mechanical strength begins with manufacturing accuracy
Large double-twist machines operate under continuous rotational load. The rotating bow, main shaft, reel-supporting system and transmission components must therefore maintain excellent dynamic balance and structural rigidity.
CABMAC places particular emphasis on the machining accuracy of the main mechanical components.
Key parts are processed through controlled machining procedures to ensure:
- Accurate shaft alignment;
- Stable bearing installation;
- Consistent concentricity;
- Reliable transmission engagement;
- Reduced vibration;
- Lower mechanical noise;
- Longer service life.
The machine frame and rotating structure are manufactured with carefully selected materials and sufficient structural strength. Critical components are inspected during machining and assembly rather than only after the machine has been completed.
This manufacturing approach helps the machine maintain stable operation during continuous production and reduces the risk of premature wear caused by misalignment or insufficient machining accuracy.
Reliable components for long-term operation
The performance of a stranding machine depends not only on its basic design, but also on the quality of the components used throughout the system.
CABMAC selects internationally recognized brands for critical drive, control and rotating components.
The main motor can be equipped with an Innomotics motor, providing reliable torque output, stable performance and suitability for continuous industrial operation.
The electrical control system can incorporate Siemens components, including PLC, HMI and related low-voltage control equipment, according to the agreed project configuration.
Critical bearings are selected from SKF or equivalent internationally recognized brands to support stable high-speed rotation and long operating life.
These components are integrated into one coordinated system rather than treated as isolated parts. The motor, transmission, encoder, PLC and take-up system must work together to maintain the correct relationship between machine speed, stranding pitch and product tension.
Process stability through automation
Stable production requires precise synchronization.
The CABMAC control system coordinates the rotating bow, take-up reel and traversing mechanism throughout the production cycle. During acceleration, normal running, deceleration and stopping, the system maintains controlled operation to reduce sudden tension changes and product deformation.
The operator can manage production through the HMI, including functions such as:
- Line-speed setting;
- Lay-length adjustment;
- Production-length setting;
- Reel and product recipes;
- Start and stop control;
- Fault display;
- Operating-status monitoring;
- Production-data recording.
Recipe management is particularly valuable for factories producing multiple conductor or cable specifications. Previously used settings can be stored and recalled, reducing setup time and dependence on individual operator experience.
Product quality beyond production speed
Higher speed is valuable only when the finished conductor or cable remains stable.
The CABMAC 1600 mm double-twist machine is designed to support:
- Uniform lay length;
- Stable conductor geometry;
- Smooth product surface;
- Controlled tension;
- Consistent reel winding;
- Reduced wire crossing and loose strands;
- Reliable operation over long production runs.
Accurate traversing is especially important when using large take-up reels. Uneven winding can reduce reel capacity, damage the product and create difficulties during the next manufacturing process.
The traversing system is therefore coordinated with reel speed and actual winding conditions to achieve orderly and compact reel build-up.
A practical investment for growing cable manufacturers
European-designed stranding machinery is widely respected for its engineering quality, but the investment level can be difficult for many cable manufacturers to justify.
CABMAC’s objective is not simply to offer a lower purchase price. The goal is to provide a balanced solution combining:
- Reliable mechanical construction;
- International-brand components;
- Stable automation;
- Practical maintenance;
- Competitive capital investment;
- Accessible spare parts;
- Responsive technical support.
By combining controlled manufacturing in China with proven international components, CABMAC provides cable producers with a practical alternative for capacity expansion and factory modernization.
The result is a machine designed around total production value rather than purchase price alone.
Service throughout the machine lifecycle
For overseas machinery projects, equipment delivery is only one stage of the cooperation.
CABMAC supports customers with:
- Technical clarification before order confirmation;
- Line-configuration recommendations;
- Manufacturing-progress reporting;
- Factory inspection and testing;
- Installation and commissioning guidance;
- Operator and maintenance training;
- Remote troubleshooting;
- Spare-parts supply;
- Long-term technical support.
Where local cooperation and service resources are available, CABMAC also coordinates with regional partners to improve communication and response times.
The objective is to help customers bring the equipment into stable production and maintain reliable output throughout its operating life.
Supporting the next generation of cable production
As cable manufacturers continue to improve productivity and automate their factories, larger double-twist stranding machines are becoming an increasingly important part of modern production systems.
The CABMAC 1600 mm Double-Twist Stranding Machine combines robust mechanical engineering, accurate machining, internationally recognized components and stable electrical control in a production solution designed for long-term industrial use.
By balancing performance, investment cost and service support, CABMAC helps cable manufacturers expand capacity, improve process consistency and strengthen their competitiveness in international markets.
CABMAC — Where Innovation Meets Reliability.
Recent information
Email: info@cabmac.com
Tel: +86-519-88179989
Mobile: +86 13337881658
+86 18796986146
Address: 902-5, No.16 Longcang Road Tianning District, Changzhou, Jiangsu, 21300, China
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