Film-Tech Forum ARCHIVE: Reel spindles used in countries besides USA

This is topic Reel spindles used in countries besides USA in forum Film Handlers' Forum at Film-Tech Forum ARCHIVE.

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Posted by John Walsh (Member # 168) on 02-24-2006, 10:24 AM:

I was trying to figure out all of the different kinds of reel spindles used, and I had thought everyone used the 'standard' two sizes of 5/16in and 1/2in. These two sizes, of course, come with drive dog, keys, etc. in several different arrangments.

But I've come accross references to 9mm spindles, which lead me to wonder what other sizes and arrangments might be out in the world. Where are 9mm spindles (not ammo! [Big Grin]

) are used? What other sizes are used? Do they have drive dog, keys, or other methods to prevent the reel from spinning freely?

Posted by Bernard Tonks (Member # 809) on 02-24-2006, 11:03 AM:

In the UK common is 5/16in with a key drive, mostly for the Simplex or RCA projector, also old Westar projector, but you could fit sleeves to convert to 3/8in. Most common British size is 3/8in with two or single pin drive. 1/2in spindles for 70mm, 6k spools, and 35mm long playing towers. I have heard of the 9mm spindle, but not come across any myself. The old BTH SUPA projector spools had 2 inch centres, an adaptor locked onto a 3/8in rewinder spindle.

In my old cinema I had two 6k rewinders with 3/8in and 1/2in spindles. And a 2k rewinder with 3/8in spindles. Also had four Cinemecannica plastic 6k spools which had removable core sizes for 5/16in, 3/8in, and 1/2in spindles. I used these for crossing over for the occasional 2nd run but mostly specialised films from a friendly muliplex cinema.

Posted by Steve Guttag (Member # 268) on 02-24-2006, 03:13 PM:

9mm is definately used. It is driven by a dog pin, not key. In those coutries that use the 9mm spindle, their cores are also 9mm with a receiver for the drive pin...a split reel will not fit them!!!!