Tube Cable Reels are supplied assembled. Each reel comprises 2 plywood flanges (6mm or 8mm thick for smaller reels and 12mm, 15mm or 18mm for larger heavier duty reels). 19mm diameter steel tubes fasten the construction and the barrels are either solid cardboard hub where the diameter is less than 250mm or 3mm thick plywood for larger diameters. The identification code for a plywood drum is 1D, Construction requirements for plywood drums are as follows:

The wood used must be well-seasoned, commercially dry and free from any defect likely to lessen the effectiveness of the drum for the purpose intended. A material other than plywood, of at least equivalent strengthand durability, may be used for the manufacture of the heads.At least two-ply plywood must be used for the body and at least three-ply plywood for the heads; the plies must be firmly glued together, with their grains crosswise. The body and heads of the drum and their joints must be of a design appropriate to the capacity of the drum and its intended use. In order to prevent sifting of the contents, lids must be lined with kraft paper or some other equivalent material which must be securely fastened to the lid and extend to the outside along its full circumference.