Abstract: This disclosure relates to a rail pad including a pad matrix having a first material and at least one damping element at least partially encapsulated or embedded in the pad matrix. The damping element includes a second material. The second material includes at least one damping element having a damping factor tan delta greater than or equal to 0.5 in the audible frequency of 1000 Hz. Methods for producing the rail pad are also disclosed.

Abstract: A portable device for transporting a spool of cable includes a stationary handle and a movable handle movable between raised and lowered positions. The invention further includes a housing positionable into a spool opening. The housing has pistons mounted within it and has apertures formed around the pistons. Advantageously, latching members are connected to the pistons and are movable between retracted and extended positions through a plurality of corresponding apertures as the movable handle is lowered and raised. The plurality of pistons engage a spool opening and allow an operator to lift a spool and transport it while the movable handle is at a raised position. The latching members are disengageable from a spool when the movable handle is released to a lowered position.