Code of Federal Regulations Title 7. Agriculture § 7.1755.870—Sheath Slitting Cord Qualification

(I) This test procedure described in this appendix is for qualification of initial and subsequent changes in sheath slitting cords.

(II) Sample selection. All testing shall be performed on two 1.2 m (4 ft) lengths of cable removed sequentially from the same 25 pair, 22 gauge jacketed cable. This cable shall not have been exposed to temperatures in excess of 38 °C since its initial cool down after sheathing.

(III) Test procedure. (1) Using a suitable tool, expose enough of the sheath slitting cord to permit grasping with needle nose pliers.

(2) The prepared test specimens shall be maintained at a temperature of 23 ± 1 °C for at least 4 hours immediately prior to and during the test.

(3) Wrap the sheath slitting cord around the plier jaws to ensure a good grip.

(4) Grasp and hold the cable in a convenient position while gently and firmly pulling the sheath slitting cord longitudinally in the direction away from the cable end. The angle of pull may vary to any convenient and functional degree. A small starting notch is permissible.

(5) The sheath slitting cord is considered acceptable if the cord can slit the jacket and/or shield for a continuous length of 0.6 m (2 ft) without breaking the cord.