What is the difference between pulling a cable with a winch versus blowing it with a cable blower?

2025-08-16

Answer from Ningbo Changshi: The two primary methods for underground cable installation are pulling and blowing, and each has distinct advantages and applications.

  • Cable Pulling (Winch Method): This is the most common method for installing heavy, large-diameter power cables. A winch pulls the cable through a conduit using a pre-installed pulling line. This method is ideal for long distances, heavy cables, and challenging routes with multiple bends because the hydraulic winch provides a controlled and consistent pulling force to overcome friction. Pulling is the standard for most utility-grade power cable installations.

  • Cable Blowing (Blower Method): This method uses a high-pressure air stream to float and propel a lightweight cable (such as fiber optic or small communication cables) through a conduit. This is an excellent choice for lightweight, flexible cables over straight runs because it's fast and generates very little tension, minimizing the risk of damage to sensitive cables.

We provide a wide range of hydraulic winches and pulling accessories for the pulling method, which is our core specialization for heavy-duty power line projects. Choosing the right method depends on the project scale, cable type, and route complexity, and our engineers are available to provide expert advice on the best equipment for your specific job.

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