The media spindles on my HP DesignJet 5500PS printer/plotter are durable and strong.  However the blue 'end' that slides on to hold the media break easy, and aren't sold separately.  I've had mine 8 years now, and the blue 'ends' have been broken for more than 6 years.  I still use the same ones (the inner part that fits inside the media roll is the only part existent now).  The spindles are reliable and good (exclusive of the blue 'end' pieces).

jkodiak217

Mattoon, IL