How to Use a Cobra Duct Rodding System – Operating & Safety Instructions
Cobra duct rodding systems are widely used for installing cables, pulling draw ropes and inspecting underground ducting.
This guide explains the basic operating steps for using a Cobra duct rod safely and effectively. It covers initial setup, feeding the rod through ducting, and key safety checks to carry out before and during operation.
These instructions are based on the Ritelite Cobra operating manual and should always be used alongside your organisation’s safe system of work.
There is a risk of personal injury if the user does not follow these instructions when using a Ritelite Cobra Duct Rodding system. These products should only be used by able-bodied, competent adults who have read and understood these instructions. The user is responsible to ensure that all necessary risk assessments have been completed prior to use. Ritelite Cobra Duct Rod’s should never be used if the user is feeling unwell, tired, or is under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol. Ritelite Cobra Duct Rod’s should also be used within the safe systems of work provided by your organisation which may have additional measures other than those listed.
The recommended PPE for this equipment is goggles and gloves. There may be additional PPE required in your organisations safe system of work.
This equipment should only be used by trained personnel.
Inspect equipment before use to check for any damage. If you have any concerns do not use.
When transporting on vehicles ensure units are secured well.
Setting Up the Cobra Duct Rod
It is recommended that Ritelite Continuous Cobra Duct Rodding Systems are always setup on a firm level surface.
Using the Cobra Duct Rod
Take the Cobra Duct rod to a suitable access point. Ensure you are not operating near critical or live services that could negatively interact with the rodding operation.
When the equipment is likely to be used near a third party, sufficient separation should be provided so that a third party cannot interfere with the equipment. Examples of this would include pavement safety barriers.
To use release the parking brake by rotating anti-clockwise until the reel can rotate freely in the frame.
Feed the rod slowly into the conduit by hand, until the guide tip reaches the destination.
If, during the feed-in process a blockage or restriction is met then gently re-try by drawing the rod back a metre and reinserting. Using a stabbing action or forcing the rod could damage existing equipment in the channel. If this fails, try feeding the rod from the other end of the run. Once the rod is at a desired position, re-tighten the parking brake with clockwise rotation so the reel will not rotate in the frame.
WARNING – Never push the equipment beyond its design limits. If the task cannot be completed easily within a reasonable time period, alternative equipment may be required.
Checking Wearing Parts
As part of your equipment check ensure the following wearing parts are in tolerance before use.
Guide Eye
The guide eye will wear at different rates depending on the environment it is used in e.g. wet sand will cause the guide eye to wear faster than dry ducts. You should ensure there is sufficient material in the wearing part of the guide eye to ensure the guide eye can function effectively.
The material should be at least 5-8mm thick.
Rod Condition
Check for thinning of the protective yellow covering and damage to fibreglass core.
Note: Damaged sections of rod can be repaired using a repair splice. Click here to view the range
End Fitting
The end fitting should be complete and bonded securely to the end of the rod.
Guide Tip
Check the guide tip is secure and in place, and hasn’t worn down too much so that it still has enough strength to pull cables / rope without breaking.
Spare Parts and Accessories
Ritelite supplies a wide range of spare parts and accessories for all Cobra Duct Rodding Systems including guide tips, end fittings, sonde adaptors, repair splice, frames and spare rods.
Replacement parts and accessories help ensure Cobra duct rodding systems continue to operate safely and efficiently throughout their service life.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you feed a duct rod through a conduit?
The rod is fed manually into the conduit while the reel rotates freely. If resistance is encountered the rod should be withdrawn slightly and reinserted rather than forced.
What should you check before using a duct rod?
Inspect the guide eye, rod condition, guide tip and end fittings for wear or damage before use.
What should you do if the rod encounters a blockage?
Withdraw the rod slightly and attempt to reinsert it. If resistance remains, try feeding from the opposite end of the duct.
With over 30 years manufacturing experience Ritelite makes Cobra Duct Rodding systems that are reliable, high quality and flexible for the many applications that industry professionals use them for. Find out more about what makes our products the best on the market.
Cobra duct rods are used in many industries including telecommunications, Electricity and plumbing and Detection when installing cables, pulling draw ropes, surveying drains and ducts and locating blockages. Find out more about the different applications.
