Undergrad Pulling cable through underground ductwork.

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SUMMARY

This discussion focuses on the challenges and considerations of pulling heavy-duty underground cable through ductwork, specifically using a winch truck and heavy rope. Key factors include the speed of pulling, the impact of static versus sliding friction, and the importance of avoiding complex dynamic behavior of the cable. Participants emphasize the need for a steady pull below the S-wave sound velocity of the cable and the potential benefits of using lubricants like soapy water to reduce friction. The conversation highlights the risks associated with pulling cable too quickly and the importance of adhering to safety protocols.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of cable splicing techniques
  • Knowledge of friction coefficients in mechanical systems
  • Familiarity with ductwork design and cable installation
  • Experience with winch truck operations
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the effects of static and sliding friction on cable pulling
  • Learn about the S-wave sound velocity in various cable types
  • Explore the use of lubricants in cable installation processes
  • Investigate best practices for pulling cable through ductwork
USEFUL FOR

Cable splicers, electrical engineers, and construction professionals involved in underground cable installation will benefit from this discussion, particularly those focused on optimizing cable pulling techniques and ensuring safety in the field.

Fatboyx
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TL;DR
Pulling cable through underground ductwork
Hello all,

I am an Engineering dropout turned Cable Splicer. In my job we do a lot of Heavy Duty underground cable pulling. Usually plastic jacketed cable through some type of ductwork (typically plastic as well). We use a winch truck and a heavy rope to pull this cable through the ducts, typically not more than 500 feet.

As of late our Foremans insistence on pulling the cable at a considerate speed has resulted in some botched jobs and what I consider to be an increased hazard. He claims that slowing down or stopping should only occur in an absolute emergency and likes to reference starting from a deadstop is like trying to start a train.

My question for you all:
- What would be the physical factors at play here?
- How substantial of a difference is it? pulling fast, slow, or from a dead stop.
- General conclusions and opinions?

I'm thinking momentum seems to be fairly negligible comparing a fast vs slow pull. Obviously coefficient of friction and how much cable is already in the ducts would be a factor as well.

Thanks for your help
-Chris
 
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Welcome to PF.

Fatboyx said:
I'm thinking momentum seems to be fairly negligible comparing a fast vs slow pull.
Sideways momentum will be important.

If you can pull slow and steady, you will avoid complex dynamic behaviour of the cable as it enters the duct. Pull at well below the S-wave sound velocity in the cable.

Do you pull directly from a spool, or do you lay out the cable, so it can enter without un-spooling, or suffer a major change of direction?

Once you stop, you will be faced with the static friction coefficient. That will be worse than the sliding friction coefficient.

Do you use lubricant? Soapy water?

Do you have greater success by pulling with a rope having a diameter slightly greater than the cable?
 
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Thread closed temporarily for Moderation...
 
After a Mentor discussion, the thread will remain closed. @Fatboyx -- We cannot allow discussion of dangerous activities at PF. Here is some of the Mentor discussion about this thread start of yours:

This problem is not easily analyzed from basic principles, and we cannot comment because of liability.

Point out that experience (the "botched jobs") is pretty much is conclusive.

The OP should be very careful about challenging the boss...

Thread will remain closed.
 
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