DISTRIBUTION STATEMENT A: Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.
DISTRIBUTION STATEMENT A: Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.
Although the words “he,” “him,” and “his” are used sparingly in this course to enhance communication, they are not intended to be gender driven or to affront or discriminate against anyone.
i
PREFACE By enrolling in this self-study course, you have demonstrated a desire to improve yourself and the Navy. Remember, however, this self-study course is only one part of the total Navy training program. Practical experience, schools, selected reading, and your desire to succeed are also necessary to successfully round out a fully meaningful training program.
COURSE OVERVIEW: To introduce the student to the subject of Electrical Conductors, Wiring Techniques, and Schematic Reading who needs such a background in accomplishing daily work and/or in preparing for further study.
THE COURSE: This self-study course is organized into subject matter areas, each containing learning objectives to help you determine what you should learn along with text and illustrations to help you understand the information. The subject matter reflects day-to-day requirements and experiences of personnel in the rating or skill area. It also reflects guidance provided by Enlisted Community Managers (ECMs) and other senior personnel, technical references, instructions, etc., and either the occupational or naval standards, which are listed in the Manual of Navy Enlisted Manpower Personnel Classifications and Occupational Standards, NAVPERS 18068.
THE QUESTIONS: The questions that appear in this course are designed to help you understand the material in the text.
VALUE: In completing this course, you will improve your military and professional knowledge. Importantly, it can also help you study for the Navy-wide advancement in rate examination. If you are studying and discover a reference in the text to another publication for further information, look it up.
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“I am a United States Sailor.
I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States of America and I will obey the orders of those appointed over me.
I represent the fighting spirit of the Navy and those who have gone before me to defend freedom and democracy around the world.
I proudly serve my country’s Navy combat team with honor, courage and commitment.
I am committed to excellence and the fair treatment of all.”
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1. Electrical Conductors ............................................................................................... 1-1
2. Wiring Techniques ................................................................................................... 2-1
3. Schematic Reading ................................................................................................... 3-1
I. Glossary.................................................................................................................. AI-1
II. Electrical and electronic Symbols .......................................................................... AII-1
III. References Used to Develop The Training Manual ............................................... AIII-1
INDEX ......................................................................................................................... INDEX-1
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The Navy Electricity and Electronics Training Series (NEETS) was developed for use by personnel in many electrical- and electronic-related Navy ratings. Written by, and with the advice of, senior technicians in these ratings, this series provides beginners with fundamental electrical and electronic concepts through self-study. The presentation of this series is not oriented to any specific rating structure, but is divided into modules containing related information organized into traditional paths of instruction.
The series is designed to give small amounts of information that can be easily digested before advancing further into the more complex material. For a student just becoming acquainted with electricity or electronics, it is highly recommended that the modules be studied in their suggested sequence. While there is a listing of NEETS by module title, the following brief descriptions give a quick overview of how the individual modules flow together.
Module 1, Introduction to Matter, Energy, and Direct Current, introduces the course with a short history of electricity and electronics and proceeds into the characteristics of matter, energy, and direct current (dc). It also describes some of the general safety precautions and first-aid procedures that should be common knowledge for a person working in the field of electricity. Related safety hints are located throughout the rest of the series, as well.
Module 2, Introduction to Alternating Current and Transformers, is an introduction to alternating current (ac) and transformers, including basic ac theory and fundamentals of electromagnetism, inductance, capacitance, impedance, and transformers.
Module 3, Introduction to Circuit Protection, Control, and Measurement, encompasses circuit breakers, fuses, and current limiters used in circuit protection, as well as the theory and use of meters as electrical measuring devices.
Module 4, Introduction to Electrical Conductors, Wiring Techniques, and Schematic Reading, presents conductor usage, insulation used as wire covering, splicing, termination of wiring, soldering, and reading electrical wiring diagrams.
Module 5, Introduction to Generators and Motors, is an introduction to generators and motors, and covers the uses of ac and dc generators and motors in the conversion of electrical and mechanical energies.
Module 6, Introduction to Electronic Emission, Tubes, and Power Supplies, ties the first five modules together in an introduction to vacuum tubes and vacuum-tube power supplies.
Module 7, Introduction to Solid-State Devices and Power Supplies, is similar to module 6, but it is in reference to solid-state devices.
Module 8, Introduction to Amplifiers, covers amplifiers. Module 9, Introduction to Wave-Generation and Wave-Shaping Circuits, discusses wave generation and wave-shaping circuits.
Module 10, Introduction to Wave Propagation, Transmission Lines, and Antennas, presents the characteristics of wave propagation, transmission lines, and antennas.
v
Module 11,Microwave Principles, explains microwave oscillators, amplifiers, and waveguides.
Module 12,Modulation Principles, discusses the principles of modulation.
Module 13, Introduction to Number Systems and Logic Circuits, presents the fundamental concepts of number systems, Boolean algebra, and logic circuits, all of which pertain to digital computers.
Module 14, Introduction to Microelectronics, covers microelectronics technology and miniature and microminiature circuit repair.
Module 15, Principles of Synchros, Servos, and Gyros, provides the basic principles, operations, functions, and applications of synchro, servo, and gyro mechanisms.
Module 16, Introduction to Test Equipment, is an introduction to some of the more commonly used test equipments and their applications.
Module 17, Radio-Frequency Communications Principles, presents the fundamentals of a radio- frequency communications system.
Module 18, Radar Principles, covers the fundamentals of a radar system.
Module 19, The Technician's Handbook, is a handy reference of commonly used general information, such as electrical and electronic formulas, color coding, and naval supply system data.
Module 20,Master Glossary, is the glossary of terms for the series.
Module 21, Test Methods and Practices, describes basic test methods and practices.
Module 22, Introduction to Digital Computers, is an introduction to digital computers.
Module 23,Magnetic Recording, is an introduction to the use and maintenance of magnetic recorders and the concepts of recording on magnetic tape and disks.
Module 24, Introduction to Fiber Optics, is an introduction to fiber optics.
Embedded questions are inserted throughout each module, except for modules 19 and 20, which are reference books. If you have any difficulty in answering any of the questions, restudy the applicable section.
Although an attempt has been made to use simple language, various technical words and phrases have necessarily been included. Specific terms are defined in Module 20,Master Glossary.
Considerable emphasis has been placed on illustrations to provide a maximum amount of information. In some instances, a knowledge of basic algebra may be required.
Assignments are provided for each module, with the exceptions of Module 19, The Technician's Handbook; and Module 20, Master Glossary. Course descriptions and ordering information are in NAVEDTRA 12061, Catalog of Nonresident Training Courses.
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Throughout the text of this course and while using technical manuals associated with the equipment you will be working on, you will find the below notations at the end of some paragraphs. The notations are used to emphasize that safety hazards exist and care must be taken or observed.
AN OPERATING PROCEDURE, PRACTICE, OR CONDITION, ETC., WHICH MAY RESULT IN INJURY OR DEATH IF NOT CAREFULLY OBSERVED OR FOLLOWED.
AN OPERATING PROCEDURE, PRACTICE, OR CONDITION, ETC., WHICH MAY RESULT IN DAMAGE TO EQUIPMENT IF NOT CAREFULLY OBSERVED OR FOLLOWED.
An operating procedure, practice, or condition, etc., which is essential to emphasize.
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The text pages that you are to study are listed at the beginning of each assignment. Study these pages carefully before attempting to answer the questions. Pay close attention to tables and illustrations and read the learning objectives. The learning objectives state what you should be able to do after studying the material. Answering the questions correctly helps you accomplish the objectives.
Read each question carefully, then select the BEST answer. You may refer freely to the text. The answers must be the result of your own work and decisions. You are prohibited from referring to or copying the answers of others and from giving answers to anyone else taking the course.
To have your assignments graded, you must be enrolled in the course with the Nonresident Training Course Administration Branch at the Naval Education and Training Professional Development and Technology Center (NETPDTC). Following enrollment, there are two ways of having your assignments graded: (1) use the Internet to submit your assignments as you complete them, or (2) send all the assignments at one time by mail to NETPDTC.
Grading on the Internet: Advantages to Internet grading are:
• you get your results faster; usually by the next working day (approximately 24 hours).
assignments. To submit your assignment answers via the Internet, go to:
http://courses.cnet.navy.mil
Grading by Mail: When you submit answer sheets by mail, send all of your assignments at one time. Do NOT submit individual answer sheets for grading. Mail all of your assignments in an envelope, which you either provide yourself or obtain from your nearest Educational Services Officer (ESO). Submit answer sheets to:
Answer Sheets: All courses include one “scannable” answer sheet for each assignment. These answer sheets are preprinted with your SSN, name, assignment number, and course number. Explanations for completing the answer sheets are on the answer sheet.
Do not use answer sheet reproductions: Use only the original answer sheets that we provide—reproductions will not work with our scanning equipment and cannot be processed.
Follow the instructions for marking your answers on the answer sheet. Be sure that blocks 1, 2, and 3 are filled in correctly. This information is necessary for your course to be properly processed and for you to receive credit for your work.
Courses must be completed within 12 months from the date of enrollment. This includes time required to resubmit failed assignments.
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If your overall course score is 3.2 or higher, you will pass the course and will not be required to resubmit assignments. Once your assignments have been graded you will receive course completion confirmation.
If you receive less than a 3.2 on any assignment and your overall course score is below 3.2, you will be given the opportunity to resubmit failed assignments. You may resubmit failed assignments only once. Internet students will receive notification when they have failed an assignment--they may then resubmit failed assignments on the web site. Internet students may view and print results for failed assignments from the web site. Students who submit by mail will receive a failing result letter and a new answer sheet for resubmission of each failed assignment.
After successfully completing this course, you will receive a letter of completion.
Errata are used to correct minor errors or delete obsolete information in a course. Errata may also be used to provide instructions to the student. If a course has an errata, it will be included as the first page(s) after the front cover. Errata for all courses can be accessed and viewed/downloaded at:
http://www.advancement.cnet.navy.mil
We value your suggestions, questions, and criticisms on our courses. If you would like to communicate with us regarding this course, we encourage you, if possible, to use e-mail. If you write or fax, please use a copy of the Student Comment form that follows this page.
For subject matter questions:
E-mail<EMAIL_ADDRESS>Phone: Comm:<PHONE_NUMBER>, ext. 1728
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If you are a member of the Naval Reserve, you will receive retirement points if you are authorized to receive them under current directives governing retirement of Naval Reserve personnel. For Naval Reserve retirement, this course is evaluated at 3 points. (Refer to Administrative Procedures for Naval Reservists on Inactive Duty, BUPERSINST 1001.39, for more information about retirement points.)
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Course Title:
NAVEDTRA: 14176 Date:
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Privacy Act Statement: Under authority of Title 5, USC 301, information regarding your military status is requested in processing your comments and in preparing a reply. This information will not be divulged without written authorization to anyone other than those within DOD for official use in determining performance.
1-1
Learning objectives are stated at the beginning of each chapter. These learning objectives serve as a
preview of the information you are expected to learn in the chapter. The comprehensive check questions
are based on the objectives. By successfully completing the OCC-ECC, you indicate that you have met
the objectives and have learned the information. The learning objectives are listed below.
Upon completing this chapter, you should be able to:
1. Recall the definitions of unit size, mil-foot, square mil, and circular mil and the mathematical
equations and calculations for each.
2. Define specific resistance and recall the three factors used to calculate it in ohms.
3. Describe the proper use of the American Wire Gauge when making wire measurements.
4. Recall the factors required in selecting proper size wire.
5. State the advantages and disadvantages of copper or aluminum as conductors.
6. Define insulation resistance and dielectric strength including how the dielectric strength of an
insulator is determined.
7. Identify the safety precautions to be taken when working with insulating materials.
8. Recall the most common insulators used for extremely high voltages.
9. State the type of conductor protection normally used for shipboard wiring.
10. Recall the design and use of coaxial cable.
In the previous modules of this training series, you have learned about various circuit components.
These components provide the majority of the operating characteristics of any electrical circuit. They are
useless, however, if they are not connected together. Conductors are the means used to tie these
components together.
Many factors determine the type of electrical conductor used to connect components. Some of these
factors are the physical size of the conductor, its composition, and its electrical characteristics. Other
the conductor will be used.
standard or unit size. A convenient unit of measurement of the diameter of a conductor is the mil (0.001,
or one-thousandth of an inch). A convenient unit of conductor length is the foot. The standard unit of size
in most cases is the MIL-FOOT. A wire will have a unit size if it has a diameter of 1 mil and a length of 1
foot.
1-2
rectangular conductor (views A and B of figure 1-1). A square mil is defined as the area of a square, the
sides of which are each 1 mil. To obtain the cross-sectional area of a square conductor, multiply the
dimension of any side of the square by itself. For example, assume that you have a square conductor with
a side dimension of 3 mils. Multiply 3 mils by itself (3 mils × 3 mils). This gives you a cross-sectional area of 9 square mils.
Figure 1-1.—Cross-sectional areas of conductors.
Q1. State the reason for the establishment of a "unit size" for conductors.
Q2. Calculate the diameter in MILS of a conductor that has a diameter of 0.375 inch.
Q3. Define a mil-foot.
of the end face of the conductor (side is expressed in mils). For example, assume that one side of the
rectangular cross-sectional area is 6 mils and the other side is 3 mils. Multiply 6 mils × 3 mils, which equals 18 square mils. Here is another example. Assume that a conductor is 3/8 inch thick and 4 inches
wide. The 3/8 inch can be expressed in decimal form as 0.375 inch. Since 1 mil equals 0.001 inch, the
thickness of the conductor will be 0.001 × 0.375, or 375 mils. Since the width is 4 inches and there are 1,000 mils per inch, the width will be 4 × 1,000, or 4,000 mils. To determine the cross-sectional area, multiply the length by the width; or 375 mils × 4,000 mils. The area will be 1,500,000 square mils.
Q4. Define a square mil as it relates to a square conductor.
figure 1-1). This unit of measurement is found in American and English wire tables. The diameter of a
round conductor (wire) used to conduct electricity may be only a fraction of an inch. Therefore, it is
convenient to express this diameter in mils to avoid using decimals. For example, the diameter of a wire is
expressed as 25 mils instead of 0.025 inch. A circular mil is the area of a circle having a diameter of 1
mil, as shown in view B of figure 1-2. The area in circular mils of a round conductor is obtained by
squaring the diameter, measured in mils. Thus, a wire having a diameter of 25 mils has an area of 252, or
625 circular mils. To determine the number of square mils in the same conductor, apply the conventional
formula for determining the area of a circle (A = pir2). In this formula, A (area) is the unknown and is equal to the cross-sectional area in square mils, pi is the constant 3.14, and r is the radius of the circle, or half the diameter (D). Through substitution, A = 3.14, and (12.5) 2; therefore, 3.14 × 156.25 = 490.625
1-3
square mils. The cross-sectional area of the wire has 625 circular mils but only 490.625 square mils.
Therefore, a circular mil represents a smaller unit of area than the square mil.
Figure 1-2.—A comparison of circular and square mils.
2 , or A = 1 circular mil. To determine the square mil area of the same wire, apply the formula
A = pir2; therefore, A = 3.14 × (.5) 2 (.5 representing half the diameter). When A = 3.14 × .25, A = .7854 square mil. From this, it can be concluded that 1 circular mil is equal to. 7854 square mil. This becomes
of figure 1-2.
When the square mil area is given, divide the area by 0.7854 to determine the circular mil area, or
CMA. When the CMA is given, multiply the area by 0.7854 to determine the square mil area. For
Problem: A 12-gauge wire has a diameter of 80.81 mils. What is (1) its area in circular mils and (2)
its area in square mils?
Problem: A rectangular conductor is 1.5 inches wide and 0.25 inch thick. What is (1) its area in
square mils and (2) in circular mils? What size of round conductor is necessary to carry the same current
as the rectangular bar?
1-4
A wire in its usual form is a single slender rod or filament of drawn metal. In large sizes, wire
becomes difficult to handle. To increase its flexibility, it is stranded. Strands are usually single wires
twisted together in sufficient numbers to make up the necessary cross-sectional area of the cable. The
strand by the number of strands in the cable.
Q5. Define a circular mil.
Q6. What is the circular mil area of a 19-strand conductor if each strand is 0.004 inch?
A circular-mil-foot (figure 1-3) is a unit of volume. It is a unit conductor 1foot in length and has a
cross-sectional area of 1 circular mil. Because it is a unit conductor, the circular-mil-foot is useful in
making comparisons between wires consisting of different metals. For example, a basis of comparison of
resistance of a circular-mil-foot of each of the substances.
Figure 1-3.—Circular-mil-foot.
sometimes find it more convenient to use a different unit volume. A bus bar is a heavy copper strap or bar
used to connect several circuits together. Bus bars are used when a large current capacity is required. Unit
volume may be measured as the centimeter cube. Specific resistance, therefore, becomes the resistance
1-5
offered by a cube-shaped conductor 1centimeter in length and 1 square centimeter in cross-sectional area.
The unit of volume to be used is given in tables of specific resistances.
foot or the centimeter cube) of a substance to the flow of electric current. Resistivity is the reciprocal of
conductivity. A substance that has a high resistivity will have a low conductivity, and vice versa. Thus,
the specific resistance of a substance is the resistance of a unit volume of that substance.
foot in length and 1 circular mil in cross-sectional area. The temperature at which the resistance
measurement is made is also specified. If you know the kind of metal a conductor is made of, you can
obtain the specific resistance of the metal from a table. The specific resistances of some common
substances are given in table 1-1.
Table 1-1.—Specific Resistances of Common Substances
Specific resistance at 20ºC. Substance
Silver 1.629 9.8
Copper (drawn) 1.724 10.37
Gold 2.44 14.7
Aluminum 2.828 17.02
Carbon (amorphous) 3.8 to 4.1
Tungsten 5.51 33.2
Brass 7.0 42.1
Steel (soft) 15.9 95.8
Nichrome 109.0 660.0
and the specific resistance of the conductor, and inversely as the cross-sectional area of the conductor.
and specific resistance of the substance. Expressed as an equation, the "R" (resistance in ohms) of a
1-6
Problem:
mils (No. 10 wire) at a temperature of 20º C?
Solution:
The specific resistance of copper (table 1-1) is 10.37 ohms. Substituting the known values in the
If R, !, and A are known, the length (L) can be determined by a simple mathematical transposition.
This has many valuable applications. For example, when locating a ground in a telephone line, you will
use special test equipment. This equipment operates on the principle that the resistance of a line varies
directly with its length. Thus, the distance between the test point and a fault can be computed accurately.
Q7. Define specific resistance.
Q8. List the three factors used to calculate resistance of a particular conductor in ohms.
Gauge (AWG). An exception is aircraft wiring, which varies slightly in size and flexibility from AWG
standards. For information concerning aircraft wire sizes, refer to the proper publications for specific
aircraft. Only AWG wire sizes are used in the following discussion.
1-7
Wire is manufactured in sizes numbered according to the AWG tables. The various wires (solid or
National Bureau of Standards. An AWG table for copper wire is shown at table 1-2. The wire diameters
become smaller as the gauge numbers become larger. Numbers are rounded off for convenience but are
accurate for practical application. The largest wire size shown in the table is 0000 (read "4 naught"), and
the smallest is number 40. Larger and smaller sizes are manufactured, but are not commonly used by the
Navy. AWG tables show the diameter in mils, circular mil area, and area in square inches of AWG wire
sizes. They also show the resistance (ohms) per thousand feet and per mile of wire sizes at specific
temperatures. The last column shows the weight of the wire per thousand feet. An example of the use of
table 1-2 is as follows.
1-8
Table 1-2.—Standard Solid Copper (American Wire Gauge)
(mils) Circular mils Square inches 25ºC. =
77ºF.
65ºC. =
149ºF.
mile 25ºC. =
77ºF.
1,000 ft.
0000 460.0 212,000.0 0.166 0.0500 0.0577 0.264 641.0
000 410.0 168,000.0 .132 .0630 .0727 .333 508.0
00 365.0 133,000.0 .105 .0795 .0917 .420 403.0
0 325.0 106,000.0 .0829 .100 .116 .528 319.0
1 289.0 83,700.0 .0657 .126 .146 .665 253.0
2 258.0 66,400.0 .0521 .159 .184 .839 201.0
3 229.0 52,600.0 .0413 .201 .232 1.061 159.0
4 204.0 41,700.0 .0328 .253 .292 1.335 126.0
5 182.0 33,100.0 .0260 .319 .369 1.685 100.0
6 162.0 26,300.0 .0206 .403 .465 2.13 79.5
7 144.0 20,800.0 .0164 .508 .586 2.68 63.0
8 128.0 16,500.0 .0130 .641 .739 3.38 50.0
9 114.0 13,100.0 .0103 .808 .932 4.27 39.6
10 102.0 10,400.0 .00815 1.02 1.18 5.38 31.4
11 91.0 8,230.0 .00647 1.28 1.48 6.75 24.9
12 81.0 6,530.0 .00513 1.62 1.87 8.55 19.8
13 72.0 5,180.0 .00407 2.04 2.36 10.77 15.7
14 64.0 4,110.0 .00323 2.58 2.97 13.62 12.4
15 57.0 3,260.0 .00256 3.25 3.75 17.16 9.86
16 51.0 2,580.0 .00203 4.09 4.73 21.6 7.82
17 45.0 2,050.0 .00161 5.16 5.96 27.2 6.20
18 40.0 1,620.0 .00128 6.51 7.51 34.4 4.92
19 36.0 1,290.0 .00101 8.21 9.48 43.3 3.90
20 32.0 1,020.0 .000802 10.4 11.9 54.9 3.09
21 28.5 810.0 .000636 13.1 15.1 69.1 2.45
22 25.3 642.0 .000505 16.5 19.0 87.1 1.94
23 22.6 509.0 .000400 20.8 24.0 109.8 1.54
24 20.1 404.0 .000317 26.2 30.2 138.3 1.22
25 17.9 320.0 .000252 33.0 38.1 174.1 0.970
26 15.9 254.0 .000200 41.6 48.0 220.0 0.769
27 14.2 202.0 .000158 52.5 60.6 277.0 0.610
28 12.6 160.0 .000126 66.2 76.4 350.0 0.484
29 11.3 127.0 .0000995 83.4 96 440.0 0.384
30 10.0 101.0 .0000789 105.0 121.0 554.0 0.304
31 8.9 79.7 .0000626 133.0 153.0 702.0 0.241
32 8.0 63.2 .0000496 167.0 193.0 882.0 0.191
33 7.1 50.1 .0000394 211.0 243.0 1,114.0 0.152
34 6.3 39.8 .0000312 266.0 307.0 1,404.0 0.120
35 5.6 31.5 .0000248 335.0 387.0 1,769.0 0.0954
36 5.0 25.0 .0000196 423.0 488.0 2,230.0 0.0757
37 4.5 19.8 .0000156 533.0 616.0 2,810.0 0.0600
38 4.0 15.7 .0000123 673.0 776.0 3,550.0 0.0476
39 3.5 12.5 .0000098 848.0 979.0 4,480.0 0.0377
40 3.1 9.9 .0000078 1,070.0 1,230.0 5,650.0 0.0299
equipment. The temperature where the wire is to be run is 25º C (77º F). How much
resistance will the wire offer to current flow?
1-9
Solution: Under the gauge number column, find size AWG 20. Now read across the columns until
you reach the "ohms per 1,000 feet for 25º C (77º F)" column. You will find that the wire
will offer 10.4 ohms of resistance to current flow. Since we are using 2,000 feet of wire,
multiply by 2.
10.4 ohms × 2 = 20.8 ohms
number 0 to number 36. To use this gauge, insert the wire to be measured into the smallest slot that will
just accommodate the bare wire. The gauge number on that slot indicates the wire size. The front part of
the slot has parallel sides, and this is where the wire measurement is taken. It should not be confused with
the larger semicircular opening at the rear of the slot. The rear opening simply permits the free movement
of the wire all the way through the slot.
Figure 1-4.—Wire gauge.
Q9. Using table 1-2, determine the resistance of 1,500 feet of AWG 20 wire at 25º C.
Q10. When using an American Standard Wire Gauge to determine the size of a wire, where should you place the wire in the gauge to get the correct measurement?
A wire is a single slender rod or filament of drawn metal. This definition restricts the term to what
would ordinarily be understood as "solid wire." The word "slender" is used because the length of a wire is
usually large when compared to its diameter. If a wire is covered with insulation, it is an insulated wire.
Although the term "wire" properly refers to the metal, it also includes the insulation.
A conductor is a wire suitable for carrying an electric current.
of wires. The wires in a stranded conductor are usually twisted together and not insulated from each other.
insulated from one another (multiple-conductor cable). The term "cable" is a general one and usually
applies only to the larger sizes of conductors. A small cable is more often called a stranded wire or cord
(such as that used for an iron or a lamp cord). Cables may be bare or insulated. Insulated cables may be
sheathed (covered) with lead, or protective armor. Figure 1-5 shows different types of wire and cable used
in the Navy.
1-10
Conductors are stranded mainly to increase their flexibility. The wire strands in cables are arranged
in the following order:
The first layer of strands around the center conductor is made up of six conductors. The second layer
is made up of 12 additional conductors. The third layer is made up of 18 additional conductors, and so on.
Thus, standard cables are composed of 7, 19, and 37 strands, in continuing fixed increments. The overall
flexibility can be increased by further stranding of the individual strands.
Figure 1-6 shows a typical cross section of a 37-strand cable. It also shows how the total circular-mil
cross-sectional area of a stranded cable is determined.
Figure 1-6.—Stranded conductor.
1-11
distributing electric power. These factors will be discussed throughout this section. Military specifications
cover the installation of wiring in aircraft, ships, and electrical/electronic equipment. These specifications
Defense. An important reason for having these specifications is to ensure uniformity of sizes to reduce the
danger of fires caused by the improper selection of wire sizes. Wires can carry only a limited amount of
current safely. If the current flowing through a wire exceeds the current-carrying capacity of the wire,
excess heat is generated. This heat may be great enough to burn off the insulation around the wire and
start a fire.
carry continuously. If this limit, or current rating, is exceeded for a length of time, the heat generated may
burn the insulation. The current rating of a wire is used to determine what size is needed for a given load,
or current drain.
in a circuit, the type of insulation, and the safe current rating. Another factor that will be discussed later in
this chapter is the material the wire is made of. As you have already seen, these factors also affect the
resistance in ohms of a wire-carrying current.
increases its capacity to carry current. An increase in the specific resistance of a conductor increases its
resistance and decreases its capacity to carry current.
The location of a wire in a circuit determines the temperature under which it operates. A wire may be
located in a conduit or laced with other wires in a cable. Because it is confined, the wire operates at a
higher temperature than if it were open to the free air. The higher the temperature under which a wire is
operating, the greater will be its resistance. Its capacity to carry current is also lowered. Note that, in each
case, the resistance of a wire determines its current-carrying capacity. The greater the resistance, the more
power it dissipates in the form of heat energy.
relatively high. When this is the case, the heat generated by external sources is an important part of the
total conductor heating. This heating factor will be explained further when we discuss temperature
coefficient. We must understand how external heating influences how much current a conductor can
carry. Each case has its own specific limitations. The maximum allowable operating temperature of
insulated conductors is specified in tables. It varies with the type of conductor insulation being used.
The insulation of a wire does not affect the resistance of the wire. Resistance does, however,
determine how much heat is needed to burn the insulation. As current flows through an insulated
before it burns the insulation. Different types of insulation will burn at different temperatures. Therefore,
the type of insulation used is the third factor that determines the current rating of a conductor. For
1-12
insulation retains its insulating properties at higher temperatures. Other types of insulation are fluorinated
ethylene propylene (FEP), silicone rubber, or extruded polytetrafluoroethylene. They are effective at still
higher temperatures.
and types of conductors covered with various types of insulation. The allowable current-carrying
given in table 1-3. At ambient temperatures greater than 30º C, these conductors would have less current-
carrying capacity.
Table 1-3.—Temperature Ratings and Current-Carrying Capacities (in Amperes) of Some Single Copper Conductors at Ambient Temperatures of 30ºC
Q11. List the four factors you should use to select wire for a specified current rating.
Q12. What are three types of nonmetallic insulating materials that can be used in a high-temperature environments?
Q13. State why it is important for you to consider the ambient (surrounding) temperature of a conductor when selecting wire size.
Although silver is the best conductor, its cost limits its use to special circuits. Silver is used where a
substance with high conductivity or low resistivity is needed.
The two most commonly used conductors are copper and aluminum. Each has positive and negative
characteristics that affect its use under varying circumstances. A comparison of some of the
characteristics of copper and aluminum is given in table 1-4.
1-13
Table 1-4.—Comparative Characteristics of Copper and Aluminum
Tensile strength (lb/in2). 55,000 25,000
conductivity (lb).
Weight for same conductivity (lb). 100 48
(C.M.).
Specific resistance ("/mil ft).
Copper has a higher conductivity than aluminum. It is more ductile (can be drawn out). Copper has
apart). It can also be easily soldered. However, copper is more expensive and heavier than aluminum.
spans possible. Its relatively large diameter for a given conductivity reduces corona. Corona is the
discharge of electricity from the wire when it has a high potential. The discharge is greater when smaller
diameter wire is used than when larger diameter wire is used. However, the relatively large size of
aluminum for a given conductance does not permit the economical use of an insulation covering.
Q14. State two advantages of using aluminum wire for carrying electricity over long distances.
Q15. State four advantages of copper over aluminum as a conductor.
increases. However, the resistance of some alloys, such as constantan and manganin, changes very little
as the temperature changes. Measuring instruments use these alloys because the resistance of the circuits
must remain constant to get accurate measurements.
temperature, 20º C in this case. It is necessary to establish a standard temperature. As we stated earlier,
the resistance of pure metals increases with an increase in temperature. Therefore, a true basis of
the same temperature. The amount of increase in the resistance of a 1-ohm sample of the conductor per
degree rise in temperature above 0º C is called the temperature coefficient of resistance. For copper, the
value is approximately 0.00427 ohm.
increase in resistance of 50 × 0.00427, or 0.214 ohms. This applies to the entire length of wire and for each degree of temperature rise above 0º C. A 20º C increase in resistance is approximately 20 × 0.214, or 4.28 ohms. The total resistance at 20º C is 50 + 4.28, or 54.28 ohms.
Q16. Define the temperature coefficient of resistance.
Q17. What happens to the resistance of copper when it is heated?
To be useful and safe, electric current must be forced to flow only where it is needed. It must be
"channeled" from the power source to a useful load. In general, current-carrying conductors must not be
allowed to come in contact with one another, their supporting hardware, or personnel working near them.
1-14
To accomplish this, conductors are coated or wrapped with various materials. These materials have such a
high resistance that they are, for all practical purposes, nonconductors. Nonconductors are generally
referred to as "insulators" or "insulating material."
designed to do a particular job. This is done because of several factors. The expense, stiffening effect, and
account. Therefore, there are a variety of insulated conductors available to meet the requirements of any
job.
insulation resistance and dielectric strength. These are two entirely different and distinct properties.
Insulation resistance is the resistance to current leakage through the insulation materials. Insulation
resistance can be measured with a megger without damaging the insulation. Information so obtained is a
useful guide in appraising the general condition of insulation. Clean, dry insulation having cracks or other
faults may show a high value of insulation resistance but would not be suitable for use.
Dielectric strength is the ability of an insulator to withstand potential difference. It is usually
expressed in terms of the voltage at which the insulation fails because of the electrostatic stress.
until the insulation breaks down.
Q18. Compare the resistance of a conductor to that of an insulator.
Q19. State two fundamental properties of insulating materials.
Q20. Define insulation resistance.
Q21. Define dielectric strength.
Q22. How is the dielectric strength of an insulator determined?
electronic equipment.
One of the most common types of insulation is rubber. The voltage that may be applied to a rubber-
covered conductor is dependent on the thickness and the quality of the rubber covering. Other factors
being equal, the thicker the insulation, the higher may be the applied voltage. Rubber insulation is
normally used for low- or medium-range voltage. Figure 1-7 shows two types of rubber-covered wire.
other is a single, solid conductor. In each case, the rubber serves the same purpose: to confine the current
to its conductor.
1-15
Figure 1-7.—Rubber insulation.
the copper conductor from the rubber insulation. If the thin coating of tin were not used, a chemical action
would take place and the rubber would become soft and gummy where it makes contact with the copper.
conductors and the rubber insulation.
CODE-GRADED RUBBER.Code-graded rubber is the standard that the National Electrical Code (NEC) has adopted as the minimum requirements for rubber insulation as specified by
Underwriters' Laboratories. In this code system, the letter R indicates the use of a rubber insulator. Type
R signifies that the wire is rubber coated.
The NEC codes Type RH and Type RHH signify a rubber heat-resistant compound. Type RW
signifies a rubber moisture-resistant compound. A Type RHW signifies a rubber heat- and moisture-
resistant compound. Type RHW is approved for use in wet or dry locations at a maximum conductor
temperature of 75º C. Neoprene, a low-voltage compound, is the one exception to Type RHW. Although
designated Type RHW.
LATEX RUBBER.Latex rubber is a high-grade compound consisting of 90 percent unmilled grainless rubber. There are two designations for this type of insulation: Type RUH and Type RUW. Type
exceed 75º C. Type RUW (rubber unmilled moisture-resistant) is used in wet locations when the
conductor does not exceed 60º C.
SILICONE.Silicone is a rubber compound that does not carry the "R" designator for many of its applications. An example of this is Type SA (silicone-asbestos). In Type SA, the insulator around the
asbestos braiding treated with a heat, flame, and moisture-resistant compound.
Q23. What is the purpose of coating a copper conductor with tin when rubber insulation is used?
1-16
Plastic is one of the more commonly used types of insulating material for electrical conductors. It has
good insulating, flexibility, and moisture-resistant qualities. Although there are many types of plastic
insulating materials, thermoplastic is one of the most common. With the use of thermoplastic, the
to the insulating quality of the material. Plastic insulation is normally used for low- or medium-range
voltage.
The designators used with thermoplastics are much like those used with rubber insulators. The
following letters are used when dealing with NEC type designators for thermoplastics:
resistant with an outer nylon jacket.
Varnished cambric insulation can withstand much higher temperatures than rubber insulation.
Varnished cambric is cotton cloth that has been coated with an insulating varnish. Figure 1-8 shows a
cable covered with varnished cambric insulation. The varnished cambric is in tape form and is wound
around the conductor in layers. An oily compound is applied between each layer of the tape to prevent
water from seeping through the insulation. It also acts as a lubricant between the layers of tape, so they
will slide over each other when the cable is bent.
Figure 1-8.—Varnished cambric insulation.
powerhouses. It is also used in other locations subjected to high temperatures. In addition, it is used on the
coils and leads of high-voltage generators. Transformer leads also use this insulation because it is
unaffected by oils or grease and has high dielectric strength. Varnished cambric and paper insulation for
cables are the two types of insulating materials most widely used at voltages above 15,000 volts. Such
cable is always lead covered to keep out moisture.
1-17
equipment installations. It will not burn, but will vaporize when subjected to intense heat. Conductors for
high temperatures use a nickel coating rather than tin or silver to prevent oxidation. Nickel-coated wire is
more difficult to solder, but makes satisfactory connections with proper soldering techniques.
Avoid breathing the vapors from extruded polytetrafluoroethylene insulation when it is heated. Symptoms of overexposure are dizziness or headaches. These symptoms disappear upon exposure to fresh air.
Q24. What safety precaution should you take when working with extruded polytetrafluoroethylene insulated wiring?
temperatures. It is rated at 200º C and is, therefore, considered a high-temperature insulation. There are no
known toxic vapors from FEP. Common-sense practice, however, requires that you provide adequate
ventilation during any soldering operation.
Asbestos insulation was used extensively in the past for high-temperature insulation. Today, it is
seldom used by the Navy. Many naval ships and aircraft, however, still contain asbestos-insulated wiring.
Aboard ship, this is particularly true in galley and laundry equipment. The reason for discontinuing the
use of asbestos as an insulator is that breathing asbestos fibers can produce severe lung damage. It can
render you disabled or cause fatal fibrosis of the lungs. Asbestos is also a factor in the development of
cancer in the gastrointestinal tract. Safety precautions concerning asbestos will be covered in more detail
at the end of chapter 3.
Avoid inhalation of asbestos fibers. Asbestos fibers have been found to cause severe lung damage (asbestosis) and cancer of the gastrointestinal tract. Follow Navy safety precautions when working with all asbestos products.
One type of asbestos-covered wire is shown in figure 1-9. It consists of stranded copper conductors
covered with felted asbestos. The wire is, in turn, covered with asbestos braid. This type of wire is used in
motion-picture projectors, arc lamps, spotlights, heating element leads, and so forth.
Figure 1-9.—Asbestos Insulation.
1-18
Another type of asbestos-covered cable is shown in figure 1-10. It is combination of asbestos and
varnished cambric. This type of insulation serves as leads for motors and transformers that sometimes
must operate in hot, damp locations. The varnished cambric covers the inner layer of felted asbestos. This
prevents moisture from reaching the innermost layer of asbestos. Asbestos loses its insulating properties
when it becomes wet. It will, in fact, become a conductor. Varnished cambric prevents this from
happening because it resists moisture. Although this insulation will withstand some moisture, it should
not be used on conductors that may at times be partially immersed in water. Under those circumstances,
the insulation must be protected with an outer lead sheath.
Figure 1-10.—Asbestos and varnished cambric insulation.
The NEC has designators for eight types of asbestos wire. The designators and a description of each
are listed below.
Q25. State the reasons that the Navy is getting away from the use of asbestos insulation.
Q26. State what happens to the insulating characteristics of asbestos when it gets wet.
Paper has little insulation value alone. However, when impregnated with a high grade of mineral oil,
it serves as a satisfactory insulation for extremely high-voltage cables. The oil has a high dielectric
strength, and tends to prevent breakdown of the paper insulation. The paper must be thoroughly saturated
with the oil. The thin paper tape is wrapped in many layers around the conductors, and then soaked with
oil.
The three-conductor cable shown in figure 1-11 consists of paper insulation on each conductor. It has
a spirally wrapped nonmagnetic metallic tape over the insulation. The space between conductors is filled
with a suitable spacer to round out the cable. Another nonmagnetic metal tape is used to secure the entire
1-19
cable. Over this, a lead sheath is applied. This type of cable is used on voltages from 10,000 volts to
35,000 volts.
Figure 1-11.—Paper-insulated power cables.
Q27. What are the most common insulators used for extremely high voltages?
needed, perhaps as many as several hundred. Figure 1-12 shows a cable containing many conductors.
Each is insulated from the others by silk and cotton thread. Because the insulation in this type of cable is
not subjected to high voltage, the use of thin layers of silk and cotton is satisfactory.
Figure 1-12.—Silk and cotton Insulation.
Silk and cotton insulation keeps the size of the cable small enough to be handled easily. The silk and
cotton threads are wrapped around the individual conductors in reverse directions. The covering is then
impregnated with a special wax compound.
called magnet wire. This wire is insulated with an enamel coating. The enamel is a synthetic compound of
cellulose acetate (wood pulp and magnesium). In the manufacturing process, the bare wire is passed
through a solution of hot enamel and then cooled. This process is repeated until the wire acquires from 6
to 10 coatings. Thickness for thickness, enamel has higher dielectric strength than rubber. It is not
1-20
wires are bent.
Figure 1-13 shows an enamel-coated wire. Enamel is the thinnest insulating coating that can be
applied to wires. Hence, enamel-insulated magnet wire makes smaller coils. Enameled wire is sometimes
covered with one or more layers of cotton to protect the enamel from nicks, cuts, or abrasions.
Figure 1-13.—Enamel Insulation.
Q28. What is the common name for enamel-insulated wire?
resistant, and water-resistant cable. MI cable has from one to seven electrical conductors. These
liquidtight, gastight metallic tube, normally made of seamless copper (figure 1-14).
Figure 1-14.—Two-conductor mineral-insulated (MI) cable.
Wires and cables are generally subject to abuse. The type and amount of abuse depends on how and
where they are installed and the manner in which they are used. Cables buried directly in the ground must
resist moisture, chemical action, and abrasion. Wires installed in buildings must be protected against
mechanical injury and overloading. Wires strung on crossarms on poles must be kept far enough apart so
that the wires do not touch. Snow, ice, and strong winds make it necessary to use conductors having high
tensile strength and substantial frame structures.
1-21
covering. The covering may be some type of insulator like rubber or plastic. Over this, additional layers
of fibrous braid or tape may be used and then covered with a finish or saturated with a protective coating.
added.
categories: nonmetallic or metallic.
Q29. If a cable is installed where it receives rough treatment, what should be added?
The category of nonmetallic protective coverings is divided into three areas. These areas are (1)
impregnated, and (3) according to the external finish on the wire or cable. These three areas reflect three
different methods of protecting the wire or cable. These methods allow some wire or cable to be classified
under more than one category. Most of the time, however, the wire or cable will be classified based upon
the material used as the covering regardless of whether or not a saturant or finish is applied.
Many types of nonmetallic materials are used to protect wires and cables. Fibrous braid is by far the
most common and will be discussed first.
Fibrous braid is used extensively as a protective covering for cables. This braid is woven over the
insulation to form a continuous covering without joints (figure 1-15). The braid is generally saturated
with asphalt, paint, or varnish to give added protection against moisture, flame, weathering, oil, or acid.
or varnish depending on the environment where the cable is to be used.
Figure 1-15.—Fibrous braid covering.
The most common type of fibrous braid is woven from light, standard, or heavy cotton yarn. Cotton
yarn comes in different colors, which allows color-coding of the individual conductors. Cotton will not
withstand all the possible environments in which a cable may be laid. Other materials currently being
asbestos, silk, rayon, and fibrous glass. The choice of which material to use depends on the strength
needed in the cable as well as how resistant it must be to its environment.
Fibrous tape coverings are frequently used as a part of the protective covering of cables. The material
of tape coverings is made into the tape before application to the cable. The material in yarns for braid
1-22
covering is woven into fabric during the application to the cable. When tape covering is used, it is
wrapped helically around the cable with each turn overlapping the previous turn.
cloth and rubber. Except for duct tape, tape covering is never used as the outer covering on a cable. Tape
the assembled conductors of a multiconductor cable. Frequently, tape coverings are used under the sheath
of a lead-sheathed cable. Duct tape, which is made of heavy canvas webbing saturated with an asphalt
injury.
Q30. How many categories of nonmetallic protective coverings are there?
Q31. What is the most common type of nonmetallic material used to protect wires and cables?
Q32. What are the most common types of fibrous tape?
required. These covers are composed of thick, heavy, long-fibered cotton yarns woven around the cable in
a circular loom, much like that used on a fire hose. They are not braids, although braid covering are also
woven; they are designated differently.
Rubber and synthetic coverings are not standardized. Different manufactures have their own special
compounds designated by individual trade names. These compounds are different from the rubber
compounds used to insulate cable. These compounds have been perfected not for insulation qualities but
for resistance to abrasion, moisture, oil, gasoline, acids, earth solutions, and alkalies. None of these
coverings will provide protection against all types of exposure. Each covering has its own particular
limitations and qualifications.
armor. Frequently, they are also used as a corrosive-resistant covering over a lead sheath or metallic
armor. Jute and asphalt coverings consist of asphalt-impregnated jute yarn heli-wrapped around the cable
or of alternate layers of asphalt-impregnated jute yarn. These coverings serve as a weatherproofing.
Unspun felted cotton is commonly used only in special classes of service. It is made as a solid felted
covering for a cable.
Q33. What materials are commonly used as cushions between cable insulation and metallic armor?
Metallic protection is of two types: sheath or armor. As with all wires and cables, the type of
protection needed will depend on the environment where the wire or cable will be used.
Cables or wires that are continually subjected to water must be protected by a watertight cover. This
watertight cover is either a continuous metal jacket or a rubber sheath molded around the cable.
1-23
Figure 1-16 is an example of a lead-sheathed (jacketed) cable used in power work. This cable is a
standard three-conductor type. Each conductor is insulated and then wrapped in a layer of rubberized
tape. The conductors are twisted together, and rope or fillers are added to form a round core. Over this is
wrapped a second layer of tape called a serving. Finally, a lead sheath is molded around the cable.
Figure 1-16.—Lead-sheathed cable.
lead. An alloy-lead sheath is much like a pure lead sheath but is manufactured with 2-percent tin. This
alloy is more resistant to gouging and abrasion during and after installation. Reinforced lead sheath is
used mainly for oil-filled cables where high internal pressures can be expected. Reinforced lead sheath
consists of a double lead sheath. A thin tape of hard-drawn copper, bronze, or other elastic metal
(preferably nonmagnetic) is wrapped around the inner sheath. This tape gives considerable additional
strength and elasticity to the sheath, but must be protected from corrosion. For this reason, a second lead
sheath is applied over the tape.
Metallic armor provides a tough protective covering for wires and cables. The type, thickness, and
environment where the conductors are to be used, and (3) the amount of rough treatment that is expected.
Figure 1-17 shows three examples of metallic armor cable: wire braid, steel tape, and wire armor.
Figure 1-17.—Metallic armor cable.
WIRE-BRAID ARMOR.Wire-braid armor (view A of figure 1-17 ), also known as basket-weave armor, is used when light and flexible protection is needed. Wire braid is constructed much like fibrous
1-24
braid. The metal is woven directly over the cable as the outer covering. The metal used in this braid is
galvanized steel, bronze, copper, or aluminum. Wire-braid armor is mainly for shipboard use.
STEEL TAPE.A second type of metallic armor is steel tape. Steel tape covering (view B of figure 1-17) is wrapped around the cable and then covered with a serving of jute. There are two types of steel
tape armor. The first is called interlocking armor. Interlocking armor is applied by wrapping the tape
around the cable so that each turn is overlapped by the next and is locked in place. The second type is flat-
band armor. Flat-band armor consists of two layers of steel tape. The first layer is wrapped around the
cable but is not overlapped. The second layer is then wrapped around the cable covering the area that was
not covered by the first layer.
WIRE ARMOR.Wire armor is a layer of wound metal wire wrapped around the cable. Wire armor is usually made of galvanized steel and can be used over a lead sheath (see view C of figure 1-17).
D of figure 1-17) when used in buildings.
Q34. What are the two types of metallic protection?
Q35. What are the three types of lead-sheathed cables?
Q36. What are the three examples of metallic armor cable that were discussed?
dielectric of some type. One wire is the center conductor and the other is the outer conductor. These
conductors are covered by a protective jacket. The protective jacket is then covered by an outer protective
armor.
Figure 1-18.—Coaxial cable.
outside signal interference.
electrical or electronic system together. Many factors determine the type of conductor to be used in a
specific application. In order for you to compare the different types and sizes of conductors, we discussed
the following factors:
Unit SizeThe unit size of a conductor is the mil-foot. A mil-foot is a circular conductor 1foot long with a diameter of 1 mil (0.001 inch, or one-thousandth of an inch).
1-25
the cross-sectional area of electrical conductors. The square mil, as it relates to a square conductor, is the
cross-sectional area of a square conductor that has a side of 1 mil. The circular mil is the cross-sectional
area of a circular conductor having a diameter of 1 mil. The circular mil area (CMA) of a conductor is
computed by squaring the diameter of the circular conductor is mils. Thus, a wire having a diameter of 4
mils (0.004 inch) has a CMA of 42, or 16 circular mils. If the conductor is stranded, the CMA for a strand
number of strands. The relationship of the square mil to the circular mil is determined by comparing the
2 ). Therefore, there is 0.7854 square mil to 1 circular mil. There are more circular mils
than square mils in a given area.
Specific ResistanceThe specific resistance of a substance is the resistance in ohms offered by a unit volume (the circular-mil-foot) to the flow of electric current. The three factors that are used to
(3) the specific resistance of a unit volume of the substance from which the conductor is made. The
use of tables.
Wire GaugeA wire gauge is used to determine the American Standard Wire Gauge size of conductors. The measurement of a bare conductor is taken in the slot, not in the circular area at the
bottom of the slot.
particular electrical circuit. These factors are (1) conductor size, (2) the material it's made of, (3) the
location of the wire in the circuit, and (4) the type of insulation used. Some of the types of insulation used
1-26
in a high-temperature environment are FEP, extruded polytetrafluoroethylene, and silicone rubber. The
ambient (surrounding) temperature of a conductor is an important part of total conductor heating.
Copper-versus-Aluminum ConductorsThe two most common metals used for electrical conductors are copper and aluminum. Some advantages of copper over aluminum as a conductor are that
copper has higher conductivity, is more ductile, has a higher tensile strength, and can be easily soldered.
reduces corona (the discharge of electricity from a wire at high potential).
Temperature Coefficient of ResistanceThe temperature coefficient of resistance is the amount of increase in the resistance of a 1-ohm sample of a conductor per degree of temperature rise above 0º C.
The resistance of copper and other pure metals increases with an increase in temperature.
Conductor InsulationInsulators have a resistance that is so great that, for all practical purposes, they are nonconductors. Two fundamental properties of insulating materials are (1) insulation resistance
and (2) the resistance to current leakage through the insulation. Dielectric strength is the ability of the
insulation material to withstand potential difference. The dielectric strength of an insulator is determined
by raising the voltage on a test sample until it breaks down.
Insulating MaterialsSome common insulating materials have properties and safety precautions that should be remembered. These are:
the insulation from deteriorating due to chemical action.
breathe the vapors.
varnished cambric and oil-impregnated paper.
transformers, motor windings, and so forth.
disease and/or cancer.
• Asbestos insulation becomes a conductor when it gets wet.
Conductor ProtectionThere are several types of conductor protection in use. The type commonly
used aboard Navy ships is wire-braid armor.
1-27
ANSWERS TO QUESTIONS Q1. THROUGH Q36.
A1. To allow comparisons between conductors of different sizes and resistance.
A2. 375 mils (move the decimal three places to the right).
A3. A circular conductor with a diameter of 1 mil and a length of 1 foot.
A4. The cross-sectional area of a square conductor with a side of 1 mil.
A5. The cross-sectional area of a circular conductor with a diameter of 1 mil.
A6. Circular mil area (CMA) = D2 (in mils) × number of strands0.0004 inch = 4 mils (CMA) = 4 2 × 19 (strands)(CMA) = 16 × 19 = 304 mils.
A7. The resistance of a unit volume of a substance.
A8. Length, cross-sectional area, and specific resistance of a unit volume of the substance from which the conductor is made.
A9. 1,000 ft = 10.4 ohms1,500 ft = 1.5 × 0.4 = 15.6 ohms
A10. In the parallel walled slot not the circular area.
A11. Conductor size, the material it is made of the location of the wire in a circuit, and the type of insulation used.
A12. FEP, extruded polytetrafluoroethylene, and silicone rubber.
A13. The heat surrounding the conductor is an important part of total conductor heating.
A14. It is light and reduces corona.
A15. It has higher conductivity, it is more ductile, it has relatively high tensile strength, and it can be easily soldered.
A16. The amount of increase in the resistance of a 1-ohm sample of the conductor per degree of temperature rise above 0º C
A17. It increases.
A18. Conductors have a very low resistance and insulators have a resistance that is so great that, for all practical purposes, they are nonconductors.
A19. Insulation resistance and dielectric strength.
A20. The resistance to current leakage through the insulation.
A21. The ability of the insulation material to withstand potential difference.
A22. By raising the voltage on a test sample until it breaks down.
A23. To prevent the rubber insulation from deteriorating due to chemical action.
A24. Avoid breathing the vapors when the insulation is heated.
A25. Breathing asbestos fibers can cause lung disease and/or cancer
A26. It will become a conductor.
A27. Varnished cambric and oil-impregnated paper.
A28. Magnet wire.
1-28
A29. Metallic coat.
A30. Three.
A31. Fibrous Braid.
A32. Rubber-filled cloth tape and a combination of cotton cloth and rubber.
A33. Jute and Asphalt coverings.
A34. Sheath and armor
A35. Alloy lead, pure lead, and reinforced lead.
A36. Wire braid, steel tape, and wire armor
2-1
Upon completing this chapter, you should be able to:
1. State the basic requirements for any splice and terminal connection, including the preferred wire- stripping method.
2. State the reason the ends of the wire are clamped down after a Western Union splice has been made.
3. Explain the major advantage of the crimped terminal over the soldered terminal.
4. Name the two types of insulation commonly used for noninsulated splices and terminal lugs.
5. State an advantage of using preinsulated terminal lugs and the color code used for each.
6. Explain the procedures for crimping terminal lugs with a hand crimp tool.
7. Recall the physical description and operating procedures for the HT-900B/920B compressed air/nitrogen heating tool.
8. Recall the safety precautions for using the compressed air/nitrogen heating tool.
9. Recall the procedures, precautions, and tools associated with soldering.
10. Explain the procedures and precautions for tinning wire.
11. Recall the types of soldering irons and their uses.
12. State the purposes and required properties of flux.
13. State the purpose for lacing conductors.
14. Recall when double lacing of wire bundles is required.
15. Recall the requirements for using spot ties.
This chapter will assist you in learning the basic skills of proper wiring techniques. It explains the different ways to terminate and splice electrical conductors. It also discusses various soldering techniques that will assist you in mastering the basic soldering skills. The chapter ends with a discussion of the procedure to be followed when you lace wire bundles within electrical and electronic equipment.
2-2
Conductor splices and connections are an essential part of any electrical circuit. When conductors join each other or connect to a load, splices or terminals must be used. Therefore, it is important that they be properly made. Any electrical circuit is only as good as its weakest link. The basic requirement of any splice or connection is that it be both mechanically and electrically as sound as the conductor or device with which it is used. Quality workmanship and materials must be used to ensure lasting electrical contact, physical strength, and insulation. The most common methods of making splices and connections in electrical cables is explained in the discussion that follows.
The preferred method of removing insulation is with a wire-stripping tool, if available. A sharp knife may also be used. Other typical wire strippers in use in the Navy are illustrated in figure 2-1. The hot- blade, rotary, and bench wire strippers (views A, B, and C, respectively) are usually found in shops where large wire bundles are made. When using any of these automatic wire strippers, follow the manufacturer's instructions for adjusting the machine; this avoids nicking, cutting, or otherwise damaging the conductors. The hand wire strippers are common hand tools found throughout the Navy. The hand wire strippers (view D of figure 2-1) are the ones you will most likely be using. Wire strippers vary in size according to wire size and can be ordered for any size needed.
2-3
The procedure for stripping wire with the hand wire stripper is as follows (refer to figure 2-2):
1. Insert the wire into the center of the correct cutting slot for the wire size to be stripped. The wire sizes are listed on the cutting jaws of the hand wire strippers beneath each slot.
2. After inserting the wire into the proper slot, close the handles together as far as they will go.
3. Slowly release the pressure on the handles so as not to allow the cutting blades to make contact with the stripped conductor. On some of the newer style hand wire strippers, the cutting jaws have a safety lock that helps prevent this from happening. Continue to release pressure until the gripper jaws release the stripped wire, then remove.
A sharp knife may be used to strip the insulation from a conductor. The procedure is much the same as for sharpening a pencil. The knife should be held at approximately a 60º angle to the conductor. Use extreme care when cutting through the insulation to avoid nicking or cutting the conductor. This procedure produces a taper on the cut insulation as shown in figure 2-3.
2-4
If you are required to strip a large number of wires, you can use a locally made hot-blade stripper (figure 2-4) as follows:
1. In the end of a piece of copper strip, cut a sharp-edged "V." At the bottom of the "V," make a wire slot of suitable diameter for the size wire to be stripped.
2. Fasten the copper strip around the heating element of an electric soldering iron as shown in figure 2-4. The iron must be rated at 100 watts or greater in order to transfer enough heat to the copper strip to melt the wire insulation.
3. Lay the wire or cable to be stripped in the "V"; a clean channel will be melted in the insulation.
2-5
4. Remove the insulation with a slight pull.
When stripping wire with any of the tools mentioned, observe the following precautions:
1. Do not attempt to use a hot-blade stripper on wiring with glass braid or asbestos insulation. These insulators are highly heat resistant.
2. When using the hot-blade stripper, make sure the blades are clean. Clean the blades with a brass wire brush as necessary.
3. Make sure all stripping blades are sharp and free from nicks, dents, and so forth.
4. When using any type of wire stripper, hold the wire perpendicular to the cutting blades.
5. Make sure the insulation is clean-cut with no frayed or ragged edges; trim if necessary.
6. Make sure all insulation is removed from the stripped area. Some types of wire are supplied with a transparent layer between the conductor and the primary insulation. If this is present, remove it.
7. When the hand strippers are used to remove lengths of insulation longer than 3/4 inch, the stripping procedure must be done in two or more operations. The strippers will only strip about 3/4 inch at one time.
8. Retwist strands by hand, if necessary, to restore the natural lay and tightness of the strands.
9. Strip aluminum wires with a knife as described earlier. Aluminum wire should be stripped very carefully. Care should be taken not to nick the aluminum wire as the strands break very easily when nicked.
Q1. What are the basic requirements for any splice or terminal connection?
Q2. What is the preferred method for stripping wire?
Q3. What stripping tool would NOT be used to strip glass braid insulation?
Q4. What tool should be used to strip aluminum wire?
There are six commonly used types of splices. Each has advantages and disadvantages for use. Each splice will be discussed in the following section.
The Western Union splice joins small, solid conductors. Figure 2-5 shows the steps in making a Western Union splice.
2-6
1. Prepare the wires for splicing. Enough insulation is removed to make the splice. The conductor is cleaned.
2. Bring the wires to a crossed position and make a long twist or bend in each wire.
3. Wrap one end of the wire and then the other end four or five times around the straight portion of each wire.
4. Press the ends of the wires down as close as possible to the straight portion of the wire. This prevents the sharp ends from puncturing the tape covering that is wrapped over the splice. The various types of tape and their uses are discussed later in this chapter.
Joining small multiconductor cables often presents a problem. Each conductor must be spliced and taped. If the splices are directly opposite each other, the overall size of the joint becomes large and bulky. A smoother and less bulky joint can be made by staggering the splices.
Figure 2-6 shows how a two-conductor cable is joined to a similar size cable by using a Western Union splice and by staggering the splices. Care should be taken to ensure that a short wire from one side of the cable is spliced to a long wire, from the other side of the cable. The sharp ends are then clamped firmly down on the conductor. The figure shows a Western Union splice, but other types of splices work just as well.
2-7
A splice that is used in a junction box and for connecting branch circuits is the rattail joint (figure 2- 7).
Wiring that is installed in buildings is usually placed inside long lengths of steel or aluminum pipe called a conduit. Whenever branch or multiple circuits are needed, junction boxes are used to join the conduit.
To create a rattail joint, first strip the insulation off the ends of the conductors to be joined. You then twist the wires to form the rattail effect. This type of splice will not stand much stress.
The fixture joint is used to connect a small-diameter wire, such as in a lighting fixture, to a larger diameter wire used in a branch circuit. Like the rattail joint, the fixture joint will not stand much strain.
Figure 2-8 shows the steps in making a fixture joint. The first step is to remove the insulation and clean the wires to be joined. After the wires are prepared, the fixture wire is wrapped a few times around the branch wire. The end of the branch wire is then bent over the completed turns. The remainder of the bare fixture wire is then wrapped over the bent branch wire. Soldering and taping completes the job.
2-8
All the splices discussed up to this point are known as butted splices. Each was made by joining the free ends of the conductors together. Sometimes, however, it is necessary to join a branch conductor to a continuous wire called the main wire. Such a junction is called a tap joint.
The main wire, to which the branch wire is to be tapped, has about 1 inch of insulation removed. The branch wire is stripped of about 3 inches of insulation. The knotted tap is shown in figure 2-9.
The branch wire is laid behind the main wire. About three-fourths of the bare portion of the branch wire extends above the main wire. The branch wire is brought under the main wire, around itself, and then over the main wire to form a knot. The branch wire is then wrapped around the main conductor in short, tight turns; and the end is trimmed off.
The knotted tap is used where the splice is subject to strain or slippage. When there is no strain, the knot may be eliminated.
The wire nut (view A of figure 2-10) is a device commonly used to replace the rattail joint splice. The wire nut is housed in plastic insulating material. To use the wire nut, place the two stripped conductors into the wire nut and twist the nut. In so doing, this will form a splice like the rattail joint and insulate itself by drawing the wire insulation into the wire nut insulation.
2-9
The split bolt splice (view B of figure 2-10) is used extensively to join large conductors. In the illustration, it is shown replacing the knotted tap joint. The split bolt splice can also be used to replace the "butted" splices mentioned previously when using large conductors.
Q5. Why are the ends of the wire clamped down after a Western Union splice is made?
Q6. Why are splices staggered on multiconductor cables?
Q7. Where is the rattail joint normally used?
Q8. Which type of splice is used to splice a lighting fixture to a branch circuit?
The splices we have discussed so far are usually insulated with tape. The following discussion will cover some characteristics of rubber, friction, and plastic insulation tapes.
Latex (rubber) tape is a splicing compound. It is used where the original insulation was rubber. The tape is applied to the splice with a light tension so that each layer presses tightly against the one beneath it. This pressure causes the rubber tape to blend into a solid mass. Upon completion, insulation similar to the original is restored.
In roll form, there is a layer of paper or treated cloth between each layer of rubber tape. This layer prevents the latex from fusing while still on the roll. The paper or cloth is peeled off and discarded before the tape is applied to the splice.
The rubber splicing tape should be applied smoothly and under tension so no air space exists between the layers. Start the first layer near the middle of the joint instead of the end. The diameter of the completed insulated joint should be somewhat greater than the overall diameter of the original wire, including the insulation.
2-10
Some rubber tapes are made for special applications. These types are semiconducting and will pass electrical current, which presents a shock hazard. These types of tape are packaged similar to the latex rubber tape. Care should be taken to insulate splices only with latex rubber insulating tape.
Putting rubber tape over the splice means that the insulation has been restored to a great degree. It is also necessary to restore the protective covering. Friction tape is used for this purpose. It also provides a minor degree of electrical insulation.
Friction tape is a cotton cloth that has been treated with a sticky rubber compound. It comes in rolls similar to rubber tape except that no paper or cloth separator is used. Friction tape is applied like rubber tape; however, it does not stretch.
The friction tape should be started slightly back on the original insulation. Wind the tape so that each turn overlaps the one before it. Extend the tape over onto the insulation at the other end of the splice. From this point, a second layer is wound back along the splice until the original starting point is reached. Cutting the tape and firmly pressing down the ends completes the job. When proper care is taken, the splice and insulation can take as much abuse as the rest of the original wire.
Plastic electrical tape has come into wide use in recent years. It has certain advantages over rubber and friction tape. For example, it can withstand higher voltages for a given thickness. Single thin layers of certain plastic tape will withstand several thousand volts without breaking down. However, to provide an extra margin of safety, several layers are usually wound over the splice. The extra layers of thin tape add very little bulk. The additional layers of plastic tape provide the added protection normally furnished by friction tape.
Plastic electrical tape usually has a certain amount of stretch so that it easily conforms to the contour of the splice.
Q9. Which of the splices discussed is NOT a butted splice?
Q10. Why is friction tape used in splicing?
Since most cable wires are stranded, it is necessary to use terminal lugs to hold the strands together to aid in fastening the wires to terminal studs (see figure 2-11). The terminals used in electrical wiring are either of the soldered or crimped type. Terminals used in repair work must be of the size and type specified on the electrical wiring diagram for the particular equipment.
2-11
The increased use of crimp-on terminals is due to the limitations of soldered terminals. The quality of soldered connections depends mostly upon the operator's skill. Other factors, such as temperature, flux, cleanliness, oxides, and insulation damage due to heat, also add to defective connections. Solder-type connections are covered later in this chapter.
An advantage of the crimp-on solderless terminal lugs is that they require relatively little operator skill to use. Another advantage is that the only tool needed is the crimping tool. This allows terminal lugs to be applied with a minimum of time and effort. The connections are made rapidly, are clean, and uniform in construction. Because of the pressures exerted and the material used, the crimped connection or splice, properly made, is both mechanically and electrically sound. Some of the basic types of terminals are shown in figure 2-11. There are several variations of these basic types, such as the use of a slot instead of a terminal hole, three- and four-way splice-type connectors, and others.
Since the Navy uses both copper and aluminum wiring, both copper and aluminum terminals are necessary. Various size terminal or stud holes may be found for each of the different wire sizes. A further refinement of the solderless terminals and splices is the insulated type. The barrel of the terminal or splice is enclosed in an insulated material. The insulation is compressed along with the terminal barrel when it is crimped, but is not damaged in the process. This rids you of the need for taping or tying an insulating sleeve over the joint.
There are several different types of crimping tools used with copper terminals. However, you will normally be concerned only with wire sizes AWG (American Wire Gauge) 10 or smaller. For wire of these sizes, a small plier-type crimper is used to crimp on uninsulated terminals, as shown in figure 2-12. The small plier-type crimper has several sizes of notches for the different size terminals. Care should be used to select the correct size crimping tool for the particular terminal.
2-12
When noninsulated terminals and splices are used, some form of insulation must be used to cover the bare conductor. The two most common forms of insulator used for terminals and splices are transparent tubing (commonly called spaghetti) and heat-shrinkable tubing. If spaghetti is used, it must be tied with lacing twine, as illustrated in figure 2-13. Heat-shrinkable tubing is shrunk to the desirable size by applying dry heat. It is also a good way to insulate terminals and splices, as illustrated in figure 2-14. This tubing shrinks to approximately one-half its original diameter when heated with an electrical hot-air gun (figure 2-15). Here are the steps for using the hot-air gun:
2-13
1. Hold the heat source 4 to 5 inches away from the wire. Apply a heat of 275º F to 300º F for about 30 seconds. Rotate the wire while applying the heat so that the heat is evenly distributed.
2. Remove the heat as soon as the tubing conforms to the shape of the wire. Allow the tubing to cool for at least 30 seconds before handling.
F as this may damage the wire. Do not continue to apply heat after the tubing has shrunk onto the wire. Further application of heat will not cause additional shrinkage of the tubing.
The compressed air/nitrogen heating tool (figure 2-16) is a new tool in the fleet and was designed as a portable source of heat. This tool is safe for use around fueled aircraft because an open heating element is not required. The compressed air/nitrogen heating tool can be used on heat-shrinkable tubing.
2-14
The compressed air/nitrogen heating tool comes in two styles: ac or dc electrical power supplies. The power requirements are listed in table 2-1 for both styles.
Table 2-1.—Compressed Air/Nitrogen Heating Tool Power Requirements
Electrical Power, HT-920B 220 VAC, 50-400 Hz, single-phase, 3.5 Amps
Refer to the operator's manual for safe operating procedures for the compressed air/nitrogen heating tool. A brief summary of these procedures follows:
1. Push down and fully turn the air regulator knob counterclockwise. This is to ensure that the air regulator is off.
2. Remove the dust cap from the air inlet nipple. The inlet nipple is what we connect the air or nitrogen source line to.
If nitrogen is used, make sure that you are in a well-ventilated area. Using nitrogen is a poorly ventilated area. Using nitrogen is a poorly ventilated area can result in suffocation.
2-15
As noted in table 2-1, the compressed air/nitrogen source CANNOT be greater than 200 psig.
3. Attach the air/nitrogen hose to the inlet nipple, making sure there is a firm connection.
4. Once the air/nitrogen source is properly attached, push down and turn the air regulator knob clockwise until the pressure on the air pressure gauge indicates between 5 to 7 psig.
5. Plug in the power cord to an appropriate grounded power supply.
6. Set the power switch to the ON position. The power lamp and heated-air-on lamp will both illuminate. (If the lights do not come on, check the switch on the gun handle. The switch must be positioned toward the front of the handle.)
7. There is a 1-minute warm-up time. During this warm-up period, ensure that the indicated air pressure increases to 10 to 15 psig on the air-pressure gauge.
8. You can now adjust the temperature control knob to the desired temperature setting.
9. You can turn the air/nitrogen pressure off and on to the gun without powering down the module by using the switch mounted on the gun handle.
After you complete your task with the compressed air/nitrogen heating tool, use the following shutdown procedures:
1. Push down and fully turn the air regulator knob counterclockwise. Observe that the air pressure gauge indication drops to 0 psig and the heated air lamp goes out.
2. Position the switch on the heating gun toward the rear of the handle.
3. Place the power switch to the OFF position and observe that the power lamp goes out.
4. Allow the air/nitrogen to flow for a minimum of 1 minute to cool the heating gun. (This procedure is done to extend the life of the heating element.)
5. Disconnect the power connecter from the power source.
6. Turn off air/nitrogen source at place of origin and disconnect.
7. Disconnect the compressed air/nitrogen hose from the air inlet nipple and install the dust cap on the air inlet nipple.
The procedure for crimping a copper terminal (noninsulated) to a copper wire is as follows:
1. With a wire stripper, trim the insulation from the wire about one thirty-second of an inch longer than the length of the terminal barrel. When using a wire stripper, be sure to use the correct size stripping slot for the wire size used. Otherwise, all the insulation will not be removed or, if the slot is too small, the outside strands of the conductor will be nicked and consequently weakened. When a knife is used for stripping wire, care should be used to prevent nicking the strands. Slip the spaghetti or heat-shrinkable tubing over the wire and back far enough to be out of the way of the crimping operation.
2-16
2. Slip the terminal barrel over the bared wire end and up against the insulation. Make certain that all wire strands are inside the tubular barrel of the terminal.
3. Center the terminal barrel in the female nest of the plier jaws as shown in figure 2-12 so that the indentation formed by the staking die will be in the center of the barrel. Crimp until the pliers reach their stop or limit. This is necessary for a good mechanical and electrical connection.
4. Slip the tubular insulation down over the terminal barrel so that it extends a little beyond the barrel. Tie it in place if spaghetti is used. If heat-shrinkable tubing is used, shrink with a heat gun.
Q11. What is a major advantage of the crimped terminal over the soldered terminal?
Q12. What are the two types of insulation most commonly used for noninsulated splices and terminal lugs?
Q13. What is the maximum allowable temperature that should be used on heat-shrinkable tubing?
Q14. What is the maximum allowable source pressure that can be used with the compressor air/nitrogen heating tool?
Terminals that are used with aluminum wire are made of aluminum. Proper crimping is more difficult with these terminals because of such factors as aluminum creep and softness. Aluminum wire has an undesirable characteristic called aluminum creep. Aluminum has the tendency to actually move away from the point where pressure is applied. This is not only true during the crimping operation but also takes place during temperature changes. The aluminum wire is softer than the terminal lugs and splice connectors and contracts faster than the connector when the temperature drops. This causes the wires to creep away from the crimped connections, which, in turn, causes loose connections. The softness of aluminum wire also makes it subject to being cut or nicked during stripping. You should be careful never to use an aluminum terminal with copper wire or a copper terminal with aluminum wire because of electrolysis. Electrolysis is the chemical action that takes place when an electric current passes through two dissimilar metals. This chemical action corrodes (eats away) the metal. Also, never use the aluminum crimping tool for crimping other than the aluminum terminals. Aluminum terminal lugs and splices are not insulated, so you must use spaghetti or heat-shrinkable tubing for insulation as discussed earlier.
The barrels of several styles of larger size aluminum terminal lugs are filled with a petroleum abrasive compound. This compound causes a grinding action during the crimping operation. This removes the oxide film from the aluminum. It also prevents the oxide film from reforming in the connection.  This hole is sealed with a removable plug, which also serves to hold in the oxide-inhibiting compound (figure 2-17).
2-17
It is recommended that only power-operated crimping tools be used to install large aluminum terminal lugs and splices. (See view A of figure 2-18.)
The steps used for crimping an aluminum terminal or splice to an aluminum wire (view B of figure 2-18) are as follows:
2-18
1. Carefully remove the conductor insulation. Do not cut or nick the aluminum conductors. Do not wire-brush or scrape the aluminum conductor (the compound in the terminal or splice barrel will clean it satisfactorily).
2. Remove the protective foil wrapping from the terminal or splice and check the amount of compound in the terminal barrel. It should be one-fourth to one-half full.
3. Slip the spaghetti or heat-shrinkable tubing over the wire and back far enough to be out of the way of the crimping operation. Insert the stripped conductor the full length of the terminal or splice barrel. While doing this, leave the plug over the inspection hole. This allows the compound to be forced in and around the strands.
4. Center the terminal lug or splice in the crimping tool.
5. Actuate the power crimping tool.
6. Wipe off the excess compound. Inspect the joint with a probe through the inspection hole. The end of the conductor should come to the edge of the inspection hole.
7. Slip the tubular insulation down over the terminal or splice barrel. Tie it in place if spaghetti is used. If using heat-shrinkable tubing, shrink with a heat gun.
Q15. Should aluminum wire be cleaned prior to installing an aluminum terminal lug or splice?
Q16. What tools should be used to install large aluminum terminal lugs and splices?
Q17. Why should a lockwasher never be used with an aluminum terminal?
Improper crimping procedures eventually cause terminal failure. Be especially careful of undercrimping, overcrimping, using wrong crimping tools, improper cleaning methods, and cutting or nicking the conductors. A loose contact allows an oxide film to form between the wire and the terminal. This results in increased resistance, and the resistance causes heat. The heat accelerates deterioration, and eventually a failure results.
The use of preinsulated terminal lugs and splices has become the most common method for copper wire termination and splicing in recent years. It is by far the best and easiest method. There are many tools used for crimping terminal lugs and splices.
Hand, portable power, and stationary power tools are available for crimping terminal lugs. These tools crimp the barrel to the conductor and, at the same time, form the insulation support to the wire insulation.
The power tools, both stationary and portable, are usually found in large shops where wire bundles are made up. In the next paragraphs, we will discuss the more common hand-crimping tools you will most likely be using in your day-to-day work.
Small-diameter copper wires are terminated with solderless, preinsulated copper terminal lugs. As shown in figure 2-19, the insulation is part of the terminal lug. It extends beyond the barrel so that it covers a portion of the wire insulation. This makes the use of spaghetti or heat-shrinkable tubing unnecessary. Preinsulated terminal lugs also have an insulation support (a metal reinforcing sleeve)
2-19
beneath the insulation for extra supporting strength of the wire insulation. Some preinsulated terminals fit more than one size of wire. The insulation is color coded, and the range of wire sizes is marked on the tongue. This identifies the wire sizes that can be terminated with each of the terminal lug sizes. (See table 2-2.)
Table 2-2.—Color Coding of Copper Terminal Lug or Splice Insulation
For crimping small copper terminal lugs, several hand-crimping tools can be used for wire sizes AWG 26 through 10 (figure 2-20). These hand-crimping tools have a self-locking ratchet, which prevents the tool from opening until the crimp is completed. Some of these tools have a color-coded selector knob to match the color-coded terminal lug or splice being used. Other tools have a replaceable set of dies for several wire sizes. The hand-crimping procedure for preinsulated copper terminal lugs in wire sizes No. 26 through No. 10 with the standard hand-crimp tool is as follows:
2-20
1. Strip the wire insulation using the recommended stripping procedures already discussed.
2. Ensure that the tool handles are fully open and the proper die set has been installed correctly.
3. Insert the terminal lug, tongue first, into the wire side of the hand tool barrel crimping jaws. Be certain the terminal lug barrel butts flush against the tool stop on the locator. See figure 2-21 for the correct insertion method.
2-21
4. Squeeze the tool handles slowly until the tool jaws hold the terminal lug barrel firmly in place, but without denting it.
5. Insert the stripped wire into the terminal lug barrel until the wire insulation butts flush against the near end of the wire barrel. (See figure 2-22.)
6. Squeeze the tool handles until the rachet releases.
7. Remove the completed assembly and examine it for the proper crimp in accordance with the following:
a. Indent centered on the terminal lug barrel.
b. Indent in line with the barrel.
c. Terminal lug not cracked.
d. Terminal lug insulation not cracked.
e. Insulation grip crimped.
If not properly stripped, some of the smaller gauge, thin-wall wire insulation can be inadvertently inserted and crimped in the terminal wire barrels. This will cause a bad electrical connection. Do not use any connection that is found defective as a result of a visual inspection. Cut off the defective connection and remake using a new terminal lug.
Preinsulated permanent copper splices are used to join small copper wire AWG sizes No. 26 through No. 10. A typical splice is shown in figure 2-23. Note that the splice preinsulation extends over the wire insulation. Each splice size can be used for more than one wire size. Splices are color coded in the same manner as preinsulated small copper terminal lugs (see table 2-2).
2-22
Crimping Procedure for Splices.
Crimping small preinsulated copper splices in the No. 26 to No. 14 wire-size range can be accomplished with several recommended tools. In this section, we will discuss the basic crimping procedures.
1. Strip wire to length following one of the procedures already discussed.
2. With the tool handles fully open, set the wire size selector knob to the proper position for the wire size being crimped. Slide the terminal lug locator down below the die surface into the fully retracted position. (See figure 2-24.) Slide the splice locator back into the retracted position. Insert the splice into the tool so that the "locating shoulder" on the side of the splice to be crimped is in the space between the two crimping dies. The insulation barrel on this side of the splice should protrude from the "wire side" of the tool. (See figure 2-24.) Slide the splice locator into the fully extended position. Insert the splice into the stationary die so that the locator "finger" fits into the locator groove in the splice.
2-23
3. Squeeze the tool handles slowly until the tool jaws hold the spice barrel firmly in place, but without denting he barrel.
4. Insert the stripped wire into the splice barrel, which protrudes from the "wire side" of the splice, until the stripped end of wire butts against the stop in the center of the splice. This can be seen through the splice inspection window.
5. Crimp by closing the tool handles. The tool will not open until the full crimping cycle has been completed.
6. After crimping, check that the wire end is still visible through the splice inspection window.
7. Reverse the position of the splice in the crimping tool (or location of the crimping tool on the splice) and repeat steps 1 through 6 to crimp the wire into the other side of the splice.
If the correct tools are used and the proper procedures followed, crimp-on connections are more effective electrically, as well as mechanically, than soldered connections. A visual inspection is very important. It reveals oxidation, deterioration, overheating, and broken conductors. In some cases it may be necessary to check these connections with an ohmmeter. The proper resistance, for all practical purposes, should be zero. Any defective terminal should be removed and a new terminal crimped on.
Q18. What is the most common method of terminating and splicing wires?
Q19. Besides not having to insulate a noninsulated terminal, what other advantage is gained by using a preinsulated terminal lug?
Q20. Why are preinsulated terminal lugs and splices color coded?
2-24
The following information will aid you in learning basic soldering skills. It should enable you to solder wires to electrical connectors, splices, and terminal lugs that we have discussed earlier in the chapter. Special skills and schooling are required for the soldering techniques used in printed circuit boards and microminiature component repair.
Cleanliness is essential for efficient, effective soldering. Solder will not adhere to dirty, greasy, or oxidized surfaces. Heated metals tend to oxidize rapidly. This is the reason the oxides, scale, and dirt must be removed by chemical or mechanical means. Grease or oil films can be removed with a suitable solvent. Connections to be soldered should be cleaned just prior to the actual soldering operation.
Items to be soldered should normally be "tinned" before making a mechanical connection. Tinning is the coating of the material to be soldered with a light coat of solder. When the surface has been properly cleaned, a thin, even coating of flux should be placed over the surface to be tinned. This will prevent oxidation while the part is being heated to soldering temperature. Rosin-core solder is usually preferred in electrical work. However, a separate rosin flux may be used instead. Separate rosin flux is frequently used when wires in cable fabrication are tinned.
Q21. Why must items to be soldered be cleaned just prior to the soldering process?
Wires to be soldered to connectors should be stripped so that when the wire is placed in the barrel, there will be a gap of approximately 1/32 inch between the end of the barrel and the end of the insulation. This is done to prevent burning the insulation during the soldering process and to allow the wire to flex easier at a stress point. Before copper wires are soldered to connectors, the ends exposed by stripping are tinned to hold the strands solidly together. The tinning operation is satisfactory when the ends and sides of the wire strands are fused together with a coat of solder. Do not tin wires that are to be crimped to solderless terminals or splices.
Copper wires are usually tinned by dipping them into flux (view A of figure 2-25) and then into a solder bath (pot) (view B of the figure). In the field, copper wires can be tinned with a soldering iron and rosin-core solder. Tin the conductor for about half its exposed length. Tinning or solder on the wire above the barrel causes the wire to be stiff at the point where flexing takes place. This will result in the wire breaking.
2-25
The flux used in tinning copper wire is a mixture of denatured alcohol and freshly ground rosin. This type of flux may be mixed just prior to use. A premixed paste flux may also be used. The solder used for terminal lugs, splices, and connectors is a mixture of 60-percent tin and 40-percent lead. Maintain the temperature of the solder bath (pot) between 450 and 500º F. This keeps the solder in a liquid state. Skim the surface of the solder pot, as necessary, with a metal spoon or blade. This keeps the solder clean and free from oxides, dirt, and so forth.
Dip-tin wires smaller than No. 8 in groups of 8 or 10. Dip-tin wires size No. 8 and larger individually. The procedure for dip-tinning is as follows:
1. Prepare the flux and solder as previously described.
2. Make sure the exposed end of the wire is clean and free from oil, grease, and dirt. Strands should be straight and parallel. Dirty wire should be restripped.
3. Grasp the wire firmly and dip it into the prepared flux to a depth of about 1/8 inch (see view A of figure 2-25).
4. Remove the wire and shake off the excess flux.
5. Immediately dip the wire into molten solder. Dip only half of the stripped conductor length into the solder (see view B of figure 2-25).
6. Turn the wire slowly in the solder bath until the wire is well tinned. Watch the solder fuse to the wire. Do not keep the wire in the bath longer than necessary.
7. Remove the excess solder by wiping the tinned conductor on a cloth.
2-26
Do not shake off excess solder. It can cause serious burns if it contacts your skin. It can also cause short circuits in exposed electrical equipment that may be in the immediate area of the tinning operation.
Use only rosin flux or rosin-core solder for tinning copper wires to be used in electrical and electronics systems. Corrosive flux will cause damage. During the tinning operation, do not melt, scorch, or burn the insulation.
Q22. What does "tinning" mean in relationship to soldering?
Q23. Why should wire be stripped 1/32 inch longer than the depth of the solder barrel?
Q24. How much of the stripped length of a conductor should be tinned?
If an electrically heated solder pot is not available, a small number of wires can be tinned using the following procedure (see figure 2-26):
1. Cut off the beveled section of the tip of a discarded soldering iron tip.
2. Drill a hole (1/4- to 3/8-inch diameter) in the round part of the tip about two-thirds through.
3. Heat the iron and melt the rosin-core solder into the hole.
4. Tin the wires by dipping them into the molten solder one at a time.
5. Keep adding fresh rosin-core solder as the flux burns away.
2-27
In the field, wires smaller than size No. 10 can be tinned with a soldering iron and rosin-core solder as follows (see figure 2-27):
1. Select a soldering iron with the correct heat capacity for the wire size (see table 2-3). Make sure that the iron is clean and well tinned.
Table 2-3.—Approximate Soldering Iron Size for Tinning
2. Start by holding the iron tip and solder together on the wire until the solder begins to flow.
3. Move the soldering iron to the opposite side of the wire and tin half of the exposed length of the conductor.
The tinned surfaces to be joined should be shaped, fitted, and then mechanically joined to make a good mechanical and electrical contact. The parts must be held still. Any motion between the parts while the solder is cooling usually results in a poor solder connection, commonly called a "fractured solder" joint.
Q25. What causes a "fractured solder" joint?
Many types of soldering tools are in use today. Some of the more common types are the soldering iron, soldering gun, resistance soldering set, and pencil iron. The following discussion will provide you with a working knowledge of these tools.
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Some common types of hand soldering irons are shown in figure 2-28. All high-quality soldering irons operate in the temperature range of 500 to 600º F. Even the 25-watt midget irons produce this temperature. The important difference in iron sizes is not temperature, but thermal inertia. Thermal inertia is the capacity of the iron to generate and maintain a satisfactory soldering temperature while giving up heat to the joint to be soldered. Although it is not practical to solder large conductors with the 25-watt iron, this iron is quite suitable for replacing a half-watt resistor in an electronic circuit or soldering a miniature connector. One advantage of using a small iron for small work is that it is light and easy to handle and has a small tip that is easily used in close places. Even though its temperature is high enough, a midget iron does not have the thermal inertia to solder large conductors.
A well-designed iron is self-regulating. The resistance of its element increases with rising temperature. This limits the flow of current. Some common tip shapes of the soldering irons in use in the Navy are shown in figure 2-29.
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An iron should be tinned (the application of solder to the tip after the iron is heated) prior to soldering a component in a circuit. After extended use of an iron, the tip tends to become pitted due to oxidation. Pitting indicates the need for retinning. The tip is retinned after first filing the tip until it is smooth (see figure 2-30).
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Q26. Define thermal inertia.
Q27. Why are small-wattage soldering irons not used to solder large conductors?
Q28. State why a well-designed soldering iron is self-regulating.
Q29. What should be done to a soldering iron tip that is pitted?
The soldering gun (figure 2-31) has gained great popularity in recent years because it heats and cools rapidly. It is especially well adapted to maintenance and troubleshooting work where only a small part of the technician's time is spent actually soldering.
A transformer in the soldering gun supplies approximately 1 volt at high current to a loop of copper, which acts as the soldering tip. It heats to soldering temperature in 3 to 5 seconds. However, it may overheat to the point of incandescence if left on over 30 seconds. This should be avoided because excess heat will burn the insulation off the wiring. The gun is operated by a finger switch. The gun heats only while the switch is pressed.
Since the gun normally operates only for short periods at a time, it is comparatively easy to keep clean and well tinned. Short operating time allows little oxidation to form. Because the tip is made of pure copper, it is likely to pit, due to the dissolving action of the solder.
The gun or iron should always be kept tinned to permit proper heat transfer to the connection to be soldered. Tinning also helps control the heat to prevent solder buildup on the tip. This control reduces the chance of the solder spilling over to nearby components and causing short circuits. Maintaining the proper tinning on the iron or gun, however, may be made easier by tinning with silver solder (a composition of silver, copper, and zinc). The temperature at which the bond is formed between the copper tip and the silver solder is much higher than with lead-tin solder. This tends to decrease the pitting action of the solder on the copper tip.
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Overheating small or delicate wiring can easily occur when a soldering gun is used. For most jobs, even the LOW position of the trigger overheats the gun after 10 seconds. With practice, the heat can be controlled by pulsing the gun on and off with its trigger. The HIGH position is used only for fast heating and for soldering heavy connections.
When a soldering iron or gun is used, heating and cooling cycles tend to loosen the nuts or screws that hold the replaceable tips. When the nut on a gun becomes loose, the resistance of the tip connection increases. The temperature of the connection is increased, thus reducing the heat at the tip. Continued loosening may eventually cause an open circuit. Therefore, check and tighten the nut or screw, as needed.
Soldering guns should never be used to solder electronic components, such as resistors, capacitors, and transistors, because the heat generated can destroy the components. They should be used only on terminals, splices, and connectors (not the miniature type).
Q30. What happens if a soldering gun switch is pressed for periods longer than 30 seconds?
Q31. What causes the nuts or screws that hold the tips on soldering irons and guns to loosen?
Q32. A soldering gun should NOT be used on what components?
A time-controlled resistance soldering set (figure 2-32) is now used at many maintenance activities. The set consists of a transformer that supplies 3 or 6 volts at a high current to stainless steel or carbon tips.  The timer can be adjusted for as long as 3 seconds soldering time. This set is especially useful for soldering cables to plugs and similar connectors; even the smallest types.
In use, the double-tip probes of the soldering unit are adjusted to straddle the connector cup (connector barrel) to be soldered. One pulse of current heats it for tinning. After the wire is inserted, a
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second pulse of current solders the connection and completes the job. Since the soldering tips are hot only during the brief period of actual soldering, burning of wire insulation and melting of connector inserts are greatly reduced.
The greatest difficulty with this device is keeping the probe tips free of rosin and corrosion. A cleaning block is mounted on the transformer case for this purpose. Some technicians prefer fine sandpaper for cleaning the double tips.
Do not use steel wool for cleaning tips. It is dangerous when used around electrical equipment because the strands can fall into the equipment and cause short circuits.
Q33. What is an advantage of using a resistance soldering iron when soldering wire to a connector?
Q34. Why is steel wool NEVER used as an abrasive to clean soldering tools?
An almost indispensable item is the pencil-type soldering iron with an assortment of tips (figure 2- 33). Miniature soldering irons have a wattage rating of less than 40 watts. They are easy to use, and are recommended for soldering small components, such as miniature connectors.
One type of pencil iron is equipped with several different tips that range from one-fourth to one-half inch in size (diameter) and are of various shapes. This feature makes it adaptable to a variety of jobs. Unlike most tips that are held in place by setscrews, these tips have threads and screw into the barrel. This feature provides excellent contact with the heating element, thus improving heat transfer efficiency. "Antiseize" compound is generally applied to the threads of the tip each time a tip is installed into the iron. This allows the tip to be easily removed when another is to be inserted.
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A special feature of this iron is the soldering pot that screws in like a tip and holds about a thimbleful of solder. It is useful for tinning the ends of a large number of wires.
The interchangeable tips are of various sizes and shapes for specific uses. Extra tips can be obtained and shaped to serve special purposes. The thread-in units are useful in soldering small items.
Another advantage of the pencil soldering iron is that it can be used as an improvised light source to inspect the completed work. Simply remove the soldering tip and insert a 120-volt, 6-watt, type 6S6 lamp bulb into the socket.
If leads, tabs, or small wires are bent against a board or terminal, slotted tips are provided to simultaneously melt the solder and straighten the leads.
If no suitable tip is available for a particular operation, an improvised tip can be made (see figure 2- 34). Wrap a length of bare copper wire around one of the regular tips and bend the wire into the proper shape for the purpose. This method also serves to reduce thermal inertia when a larger iron must be used on small components.
Q35. Why should "antiseize" compound be used on the screw-in tips of the pencil iron?
Q36. If no suitable tip is available for a particular job, how may one be improvised?
Any discussion of soldering techniques should include an explanation of solder itself. Ordinary soft solder is a fusible alloy consisting chiefly of tin and lead. It is used to join two or more metals at temperatures below their melting point. In addition to tin and lead, soft solders occasionally contain varying amounts of antimony, bismuth, cadmium, or silver. These are added to change the melting point or physical properties of the alloy. Ordinary table salt has to be heated to 1,488º F before it melts. However, when a little water is added, it dissolves easily at room temperature. The action of molten solder on a metal like copper may be compared to the action of water on salt.
The solder bonds the connection by dissolving a small amount of the copper at temperatures quite below its melting point. Thus, the soldering process involves a metal solvent action between the solder
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and the metal being joined. A solder joint is therefore chemical in nature rather than purely physical. The bond is formed in part by chemical action and part by a physical bond.
The properties of a solder joint are different from those of the original solder. The solder is converted to a new and different alloy through the solvent action. Two metals soldered together behave like one solid metal. It is unlike two metals bolted, wired, or otherwise physically attached. These types of connections are still two pieces of metal. They are not even in direct contact due to an insulating film of oxide on the surfaces of the metals.
Temperature change does not affect the solder alloy. It withstands stress and strains without damaging the joint. An unsoldered connection eventually becomes loosened by small movements caused by temperature variations and by the gradual buildup of oxides on the metal surfaces.
To understand fully the alloy or solvent action on molten solder, look at the tin-lead fusion diagram shown in figure 2-35. This diagram shows that pure lead (point A) melts at 621º F. Point C shows the lowest melting point of the tin and lead alloy. The alloy at point C consists of 63-percent tin (SN63) and 37-percent lead. This is commonly called 63/37 solder. It has a melting point of 361º F. This type of solder, because of its very low melting point, is used in printed circuit boards and microminiature electronic repair. As you can see from the chart, the melting point of the alloy is lowered when tin is added to lead.
The solder used to solder wires to electrical connectors, splices, and terminal lugs is a combination of 60-percent tin to 40-percent lead (60/40 solder). The melting point of 60/40 solder is 370º F, as shown at point B of the figure. Type 60/40 solder is less expensive than 63/37 solder and is suitable for all general uses.
Q37. What two metals are used to from soft solder?
Q38. Define the metal solvent action that takes place when copper conductors are soldered together.
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Q39. What is the tin-lead alloy percentage of solder used for electrical connectors, splices, and terminal lugs?
As you know, flux is a cleaning agent to remove oxidation during soldering. Heating a metal causes rapid oxidation. Oxidation prevents solder from reacting chemically with a metal. Flux cleans the metal by removing the oxide layer. This operation is shown in figure 2-36. As the iron is moved in the direction shown, the boiling flux floats away the oxide film. The molten solder following the iron then fuses rapidly with the clean surface of the metal.
There are two classes of flux: corrosive and noncorrosive. Zinc chloride, hydrochloric acid, and sal ammoniac are corrosive fluxes. Corrosive flux should NEVER be used in electrical or electronic repair work. Use only rosin fluxes. Any flux remaining in the joint corrodes the connection and creates a defective circuit. Rosin is a noncorrosive flux and is available in paste, liquid, or powder form.
A solvent is used for cleaning and removing contaminants (oil, grease, dirt, and so forth) from the soldered connection. Solvents must be nonconductive and noncorrosive. Solvents must be used in a manner that keeps dissolved flux residue from "contact" surfaces, such as those in switches, potentiometers, or connectors. Ethyl and isopropyl alcohol are acceptable solvents.
These cleaning solvents are highly flammable and may give off toxic vapors. Follow Navy safety precautions and take extreme care when using any flammable solvent.
Q40. What purpose does flux serve in the soldering process?
Q41. What type of flux must be used in all electrical and electronic soldering?
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Q42. Why are solvents used in the soldering process?
Some type of heat shunt must be used in all soldering operations that involve heat-sensitive components. A typical heat shunt (figure 2-37) permits soldering the leads of component parts without overheating the part itself. The heat shunt should be attached carefully to prevent damage to the leads, terminals, or component parts. The shunt should be clipped to the lead, between the joint and the part being protected. As the joint is heated, the shunt absorbs the excess heat before it can reach the part and cause damage.
A small piece of beeswax may be placed between the protected unit and the heat shunt. When the beeswax begins to melt, the temperature limit has been reached. The heat source should be removed immediately, but the shunt should be left in place.
Removing the shunt too soon permits the heat to flow from the melted solder into the component. The shunt should be allowed to remain in place until it cools to room temperature. A clip-on shunt is preferred because it requires positive action for removal. It does not require that the technician maintain pressure to hold it in place. This leaves both hands free to solder the connection.
Two safety devices are shown in figure 2-38. These devices prevent burns to the operator when the soldering iron is not in use for short periods of time.
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Q43. What is the purpose of a heat shunt?
Conductors within equipment must be kept in place to present a neat appearance and aid in tracing the conductors when alterations or repairs are required. This is done by LACING the conductors into wire bundles called cables. An example of lacing is shown in figure 2-39. When conductors are properly laced, they support each other and form a neat, single cable.
A narrow, flat tape should be used wherever possible for lacing and tying. This tape is not an adhesive type of tape. Round cord may also be used, but its use is not preferred because cord has a tendency to cut into wire insulation. Use cotton, linen, nylon, or glass fiber cord or tape, according to the temperature requirements. Cotton or linen cord or tape must be prewaxed to make it moisture and fungus resistant. Nylon cord or tape may be waxed or unwaxed; glass fiber cord or tape is usually not waxed.
The amount of flat tape or cord required to single lace a group of conductors is about two and one- half times the length of the longest conductor in the group. Twice this amount is required if the conductors are to be double laced.
Before lacing, lay the conductors out straight and parallel to each other. Do not twist them together because twisting makes conductor lacing and wire tracing difficult during troubleshooting.
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Q44. Besides presenting a neat appearance and supporting each other, what is the other purpose for lacing conductors?
Q45. Why is flat tape preferred instead of round cord when wire bundles are laced?
Q46. What amount of flat tape or round cord is required to single lace a group of conductors?
A lacing shuttle on which the cord can be wound keeps the cord from fouling during the lacing operation. A shuttle similar to the one shown in figure 2-40 can easily be made from aluminum, brass, fiber, or plastic scrap. Rough edges of the material used for the shuttle should be filed smooth to prevent injury to the operator and damage to the cord. To fill the shuttle for a single lace, measure the cord, cut it, and wind it on the shuttle. For double lace, proceed as before, except double the length of the cord before you wind it on the shuttle. For double lace, start both ends of the cord or tape on the shuttle in order to leave a loop for starting the lace. This procedure is explained later in the chapter.
Some equipment requires the use of twisted wires. One example is the use of "twisted pairs" for the ac filament leads of certain electron tube amplifiers to minimize radiation of their magnetic field. This prevents an annoying hum in the amplifier output. You should duplicate the original layout when relacing any wiring harness.
Lace or tie bundles tightly enough to prevent slipping, but not so tightly that the cord or tape cuts into or deforms the insulation. Be especially careful when lacing or tying coaxial cable. Coaxial cable is a conductor used primarily for radio-frequency transmission. It consists of a center conductor separated from an outer conductor (usually called a shield) by an insulating dielectric. The dielectric maintains a constant capacitance between the two conductors, which is very important in radio transmission. The dielectric is soft and deforms easily if tied too tightly or with the wrong type of tape.
Do not use round cord for lacing or tying coaxial cable or bundles that contain coaxial cable. Use only the approved military specification tape to lace or tie coaxial cables or bundles containing coaxial cables.
Q47. What is the purpose of a lacing shuttle?
Q48. When should wires be twisted prior to lacing?
Q49. What precautions should you take when tying bundles containing coaxial cables?
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Single lace can be started with a square knot and at least two marling hitches drawn tightly. Details of the square knot and marling hitch are shown in figure 2-41. Do not confuse the marling hitch with a half hitch. In the marling hitch, the end is passed over and under the strand, as shown in view A of the figure. After forming the marling hitches, draw them tightly against the square knot, as shown in view B. The lace consists of a series of marling hitches evenly spaced at 1/2-inch to 1-inch intervals along the length of the group of conductors, as shown in view C of the figure.
When dividing conductors to form two or more branches, follow the procedure illustrated in figure 2-42. Bind the conductors with at least six turns between two marling hitches, and continue the lacing along one of the branches, as shown in view A. Start a new lacing along the other branch. To keep the bends in place, form them in the conductors before lacing. Always add an extra marling hitch just prior to a breakout as shown in view B.
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Double lace should be used on groups of conductors that are 1 inch or larger in total diameter. Either a single lace or a double lace may be used on groups of less than 1 inch.
Q50. How is the single lace started?
Double lace is applied in a manner similar to single lace, except that it is started with a telephone hitch and is double throughout the length of the lacing (figure 2-43). Both double and single lace may be ended by forming a loop from a separate length of cord and using it to pull the end of the lacing back underneath a serving of approximately eight turns (figure 2-44). An alternate method of ending the lacing is illustrated in figure 2-45. This method can also be used for either single- or double-cord lacing. Another method is by using a marling hitch as a lock stitch (figure 2-46) to prevent slippage. This procedure will also prevent unraveling should a break occur to the lacing.
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The spare conductors of a multiconductor cable should be laced separately, and then tied to active conductors of the cable with a few telephone hitches. When two or more cables enter an enclosure, each cable group should be laced separately. When groups are parallel to each other, they should be bound together at intervals with telephone hitches (figure 2-47).
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Q51. What size wire bundles require double lace?
Q52. How is the double lace started?
Q53. How are laced cable groups bound together?
When cable supports are used in equipment as shown in figure 2-48, spot ties are used to secure the conductor groups if the supports are more than 12 inches apart. The spot ties are made by wrapping the cord around the group as shown in figure 2-49. To finish the tie, use a clove hitch followed by a square knot with an extra loop. The free ends of the cord are then trimmed to a minimum of 3/8 inch.
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Self-clinching cable straps are adjustable, lightweight, flat nylon straps. They have molded ribs or serrations on the inside surface to grip the wire. They may be used instead of individual cord ties for securing wire groups or bundles quickly. The straps are of two types: a plain cable strap and one that has a flat surface for identifying the cables.
Do not use nylon cable straps over wire bundles containing coaxial cable. Do not use straps in areas where failure of the strap would allow the strap to fall into movable parts.
Installing self-clinching cable straps is done with a Military Standard hand tool, as shown in figure 2- 50. An illustration of the working parts of the tool is shown in figure 2-51. To use the tool, follow the manufacturer's instructions.
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Use proper tools and make sure the strap is cut flush with the eye of the strap. This prevents painful cuts and scratches caused by protruding strap ends. Do not use plastic cable straps in high-temperature areas (above 250º
F).
High-temperature, pressure-sensitive tape must be used to tie wire bundles in areas where the temperature may exceed 250º F. Install the tape as follows (figure 2-52):
1. Wrap the tape around the wire bundle three times, with a two-thirds overlap for each turn.
2. Heat-seal the loose tape end with the side of a soldering iron tip.
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Insulation tape (including the glass fiber type) is highly flammable and should not be used in a high-temperature environment. Only insulation tape approved for high-temperature operation (suitable for continuous operation at 500º
F) should be used in high-temperature environments.
Q54. When are spot ties used?
Q55. What is used to install self-clinching cable straps?
Q56. What is used to tie wire bundles in high-temperature areas?
In this chapter you have learned some of the basic skills required for proper wiring techniques. We have discussed conductor splices and terminal connections, basic soldering skills, and lacing and tying wire bundles.
The basic requirement for any splice or terminal connection is that it be both mechanically and electrically as strong as the conductor or device with which it is to be used.
Insulation Removal—The first step in splicing or terminating electrical conductors is to remove the insulation. The preferred method for stripping wire is by use of a wire-stripping tool. The hot-blade stripper cannot be used on such insulation material as glass braid or asbestos. An alternate method for stripping copper wire is with a knife. A knife is the required tool to strip aluminum wire. Take extreme care when stripping aluminum wire. Knicking the strands will cause them to break easily.
Western Union Splice—A simple connection known as the Western Union splice is used to splice small, solid conductors together. After the splice is made, the ends of the wire are clamped down to prevent damage to the tape insulation.
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Staggered Splice—The staggered splice is used on multiconductor cables to prevent the joint from being bulky.
Rattail Joint—A splice that is used in a junction box and for connecting branch circuits; wiring is placed inside conduits.
Fixture Joint—When conductors of different sizes are to be spliced, such as fixture wires to a branch circuit, the fixture joint is used.
Knotted Tap Joint—This type of splice is used to splice a conductor to a continuous wire. It is not considered a "butted" splice as the ones previously discussed.
Splice Insulation—Rubber tape is an insulator for the type of splices we have discussed so far.
Friction Tape—It has very little insulating value but is used as a protective covering for the rubber tape. Another type of insulating tape is plastic electrical tape, which is quite expensive.
Terminal Lugs—The terminals used in electrical wiring are either of the soldered or crimped type. The advantage of using a crimped type of connection is that it requires very little operator skill, whereas the soldered connection is almost completely dependent on the skill of the operator. Some form of insulation must be used with noninsulated splices and terminal lugs. The types used are clear plastic tubing (spaghetti) and heat-shrinkable tubing. When a heat gun is used to shrink the heat-shrinkable tubing, the maximum allowable heat to be used is 300º F. When using the compressed air/nitrogen heating tool, the air/nitrogen source cannot be greater than 200 psig.
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Aluminum Terminals and Splices—Aluminum terminals and splices are noninsulated and very difficult to use. Some of the things you should remember when working with aluminum wire are: (1) Never attempt to clean the aluminum wire. There is a petroleum abrasive compound in the terminal lug or splice that automatically cleans the wire. (2) The only tools that should be used for the crimping operation are the power crimping type. (3) Never use lock washers next to aluminum terminal lugs as they will gouge out the tinned area and increase deterioration.
Preinsulated Copper Terminal Lugs and Splices—The most common method of terminating and splicing copper wires is with the use of preinsulated terminal lugs and splices. Besides not having to insulate the terminal or splice after the crimping operation, the other advantage of this type is that it gives extra wire insulation support. Several types of crimping tools can be used for these types of terminals and splices. The tool varies with the size of the terminal or splice. Preinsulated terminal lugs and splices are color coded to indicate the wire size they are to be used with.
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