COMPOSITE THERMOPLASTIC/GLASS FILAMENT REINFORCEMENT FOR BUOYANT SUBMARINE CABLES RG-372 (XN-1)/U AND RG-373 (XN-1)/U.
Abstract
The feasibility of producing a buoyant submarine cable, which will meet single-conductor RG-373(XN-1)/U specifications, has been demonstrated. Tests on cable samples, which were constructed on modified commercial equipment, confirmed that the thermoplastic/glass composites, which Union Carbide developed for cable reinforcement, were more than satisfactory. The breaking strength of the cable is more than twice the 1200 pounds specified, while the cable is substantially below the specific gravity limit. Testing at the U. S. Navy Underwater Sound Laboratory showed that the samples produced met all the requirements for the RG-373 cable except for watertightness. The first attempt to produce coaxial cable with Union Carbine's thermoplastic/glass composites as strength members was made. Although the composites presented no problems throughout the run, the finished cable was not satisfactory. The waterproofing compound and techniques normally used proved unsuitable in the RG-372 construction. In addition, the cellular polyethylene jackets were not of the proper density.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 10, 1967
- Accession Number
- AD0652810
Entities
People
- H. J. Nalepa
- P. H. Hofer