L3 Comminications SERIES 5000 Operation And Maintenance Manual - B.2 Uncoiling Tow Cable

B-2

APPENDIX B Notes on Handling Tow Cables

Series 5000 Sonar System Operations and Maintenance Manual

P/N 11210060, Rev. 13.0

B.2 Uncoiling Tow Cable

Remove ties and roll the coil along the ground so the rope lies straight. There will 

be no twist or kink in the cable if these instructions are followed.

B.3 Cable Kinking

Cable kinking can be prevented if the cable is properly handled and installed. The 

cause, the effect and the result of cable kinking are discussed below. 

B.3.1 Cause of Cable Kinking

Kinking is caused when the cable takes a spiral shape as the result of an unnatural 

twist. One of the most common causes of twisting is improper unreeling and 

uncoiling. A cable loop and a cable kink are shown in Figure B-3. At the loop 

stage no damage will occur if the loop is immediately straightened out before it 

causes a kink.

CAUTION  

If the reel and coil do not revolve freely, it will cause the cable 

to twist as each turn is taken off. Kinking will result if the twist is not 

removed and the cable straightened out before being placed under tension.

Figure B-2:  

Spooling Real to Drum