"Anti-Twist Swivels" are critical "Conductor pulling tools" that act as a buffer between the pulling rope and the conductor/cable. Their primary role is to absorb and prevent any torsional (twisting) forces from being transferred from the pulling rope to the conductor. This is absolutely essential for:

• Preventing Conductor Damage: Without a Swivel, the pulling rope's natural tendency to twist under load can cause conductors to birdcage (unravel strands), kink, or for bundled conductors, to spiral unevenly. For OPGW (Optical Ground Wire), twisting can severely damage or break the delicate optical fibers inside.

• Ensuring Bundle Integrity: For multi-conductor bundles, swivels ensure that each individual conductor maintains its correct relative position within the bundle, preventing unwanted rotation or entanglement.

• Smooth Pulling Operation: By allowing free rotation, swivels contribute to a smoother, more controlled pulling process, reducing stress on both the conductor and the pulling equipment.

Maintenance Requirements for Anti-Twist Swivels:

• Regular Inspection: Before each use, visually inspect the swivel for any signs of damage: cracks, bends, distortion, excessive wear on the eyes/shackles, or signs of rust/corrosion.

• Functionality Check: Manually rotate the swivel to ensure it turns freely and smoothly without binding or excessive play. Any stiffness or grinding indicates a problem.

• Lubrication: While many modern swivels feature sealed, maintenance-free bearings, some heavy-duty models may have grease fittings. If present, lubricate according to the manufacturer's recommendations using the specified type of grease.

• Load Rating Verification: Always confirm that the swivel's Working Load Limit (WLL) is appropriate for the anticipated pulling force of the job.

• Cleaning: Keep the swivel clean from dirt, debris, and contaminants that could interfere with its rotational mechanism.

• Immediate Removal from Service: Any swivel showing signs of damage, restricted rotation, or suspected compromise to its integrity must be immediately removed from service, tagged, and either repaired by a qualified professional or replaced. Never attempt to use a damaged or malfunctioning swivel.