Flexible Shaft Set

Selecting the correct shaft diameter is a balance between flexibility and torque.

Thinner shafts navigate bends more easily, while thicker shafts deliver more torque for heavy descaling and stubborn blockages. If the pipe contains multiple tight bends, a thinner shaft is usually the better choice. If the pipe run is mostly straight and heavy buildup must be removed, a thicker shaft will provide stronger cleaning power.

Using a shaft that is too thin in a large pipe also increases the risk of the shaft winding up inside the line if a tool gets stuck. Larger diameters reduce this risk and provide more stable torque delivery.

Typical Diameter Recommendations:

1¼″–2″ pipes (DN32–DN50)

Recommended: 6 mm (¼″)
Ideal for navigating tight bends such as 90° elbows in smaller residential lines. Thicker shafts may struggle to pass bends in this pipe size.

3″–4″ pipes (DN75–DN100)

Recommended: 8 mm (5/16″) when bends are present.
Provides good flexibility while still delivering enough torque for descaling. If the line is mostly straight and heavier cleaning is required, 10 mm may also be used.

4″–6″ pipes (DN100–DN150)

Recommended: 10 mm (⅜″)
A balanced option for descaling and blockage removal. If the pipe has several tight bends, 8 mm may perform better.

4″–8″ straight lines (DN100–DN200)

Recommended: 12 mm (½″)
Best choice for maximum torque and heavy descaling in larger pipes. It may pass one or two bends, but performance decreases in more complex layouts. If bends are present, 10 mm is often the better option.

Note: Flexible shafts are measured by core diameter.

Selecting the correct shaft length mainly depends on the distance to the blockage and the layout of the pipe system. In most situations, it is best to choose the shortest shaft that comfortably reaches the blockage. Shorter shafts deliver slightly better torque and provide more control during operation.

Longer shafts are useful when working in deeper pipe systems or when access points are far from the blockage location.

5 m (16.4 ft)

Best for short pipe runs where maximum torque and control are needed.

10 m (32.8 ft)

A versatile option suitable for most residential drain cleaning jobs.

15 m (49.2 ft)

Useful for longer pipe sections such as multi-floor stacks or extended branch lines.

20 m (65.6 ft)

Often matches the typical distance between clean-outs and blockages in residential and light commercial systems.

30 m (98.4 ft)

Designed for long commercial pipe runs or deep mainline cleaning where reach is critical.

Professional Tip

Longer shafts naturally experience some torque loss. For improved flexibility and stronger torque delivery, many professionals prefer using two shorter shafts connected with a shaft to shaft connector.

This setup can also allow combining different shaft diameters to balance flexibility for bends and torque for descaling.

Custom lengths are available on request.

Flexible shafts are shipped without lubrication due to aviation shipping restrictions. Always lubricate the shaft before first use to ensure smooth operation and reduce internal wear.

During initial use the shaft may shrink slightly (approximately 75 mm at the ends). If necessary, trim the ends and reattach the tools.

Always make sure the friction bearings are installed correctly. Each bearing is engraved:

D – Drill side
T – Tool side