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f INCH-POUND I

MIL-C-24643A
14 March 1994
SUPERSEDING
MIL-C-24643
3 October 1986

MILITARY SPECIFICATION

●
CABLES AND CORDS, ELECTRIC, LOW SMOKE, FOR SHIPBOARD USE
GENERAL SPECIFICATION FOR

This specification is approved for use by all Departments and Agencies of the
Department of Defense.

1. SCOPE

●
1.1 %X?X2Q. This specification covers low smoke electric cable and cord for
Navy shipboard applications.
,,
1.2 ~asslflcatio~. Cables and cords covered by this specification shall be
classified as watertight, watertight (with circuit integrity) , and non-watertight
constructions, armored and unarmored, and further classified for flexing and
nonflexing service for power, lighting, control, communications, instrumentation and
electronic applications, as specified in 1.2.1 through 1.2.4 (see 6.2.1) . A part
number for cable and cord shall be as specified in 6.7 and the applicable
specification sheet.

1.2.1 Watertiq& ( xth circuit mtea ltv) , no&lexlna service ~ Cable and cord
types for watertight, (~ith circuit integ~ity), nonflexing service as follows:

Power and lighting:

~mored ored w-
~

Type --- ---- LSDPS TWO conductors 600 volts (V)

LSDSGU ---- LSDSGA Two conductors 1000 v
--- ---- LSFPS Four conductors 600 V
LSFSGU ---- LSFSGA Four conductors 1000 v

Beneficial comments, (recommendations, additions, deletions) and any pertinent data

which may be of use in improving this document should be addressed to the Commander,
SEA 05Q42, Naval Sea Systems Command, 2531 National Center Bldg. 3, Washington, DC
20362-5160, by using the self-addressed Standardization Document Improvement Proposal
(DD Form 1426) appearing at the end of this document or letter. I

AMSC N/A FSC 6145

Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.
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ML-C-24643A

power and lighting continued:

rmored with
over all Shield

LSSSGLT --- ISSSGA Single conductors 3000 v

--- ---- LSTPS Three conductors 600 V
LSTSGU ---- LSTSGA Three conductors 1000 v
LS6SGU ---- LS6SGA Six conductors 1000 v
--- ---- LS7PS Seven conductors 600 V
LS7SGU ---- LS7GA Seven conductors 1000 v

Control:

Ynar m -ed Ynarm~red with Armored

fwerall shield

me LSMS CU LSMSCS1/ LSMSCA Seven through 91 1000 v

conductors

Electronic, communication and instrumentation:

Unarmored Armored
9V
~ r

Type --- ---- LSTCKX One, 3, 7 and 12 pairs

LSTCTU ---- LSTCTA One pair
--- ---- LSTCTX Three, 7 and 12 pairs
LSTI%U ---- LSTTSA 1-1/2 through 6 pairs 300 v

l/Double overall shield.

● 1.2.2 Watertight. Cable and cord types for watertight,

nonflexing service are as follows:

Power, lighting and special purpose:

Ynarmw2f2 Armored
gverall Sw

Type LSMDU ---- LSMDY Nineteen conductors 600 V

LSSRW ---- LSSRWA Single conductor 3000 v
LSTRW ---- LSTRWA Three conductors 3000 v
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MU-C-24643A

Electronic, communication and instrumentation:

pnarmored with
pverall shield

Type LSDRW ---- LSDRWA TWO conductor 3000 v

LSECM -- LSEUUIA 56 single conductors 600 V
LSPBT?4U ---- LSPB’I?4 Five, 15 and 30 pairs
LSTCJU ---- LSTCJA One pair
--- ---- LSTCJX Three, 7 and 12 pairs
LS 1SMWU ---- LSISMWA 70 Shielded pairs
LSISWU ---- LSISWA TWO, 14, 20 and 30 shielded
singles
LS2SWAU ---- LS2SWA Three through 61 shielded pairs
LS2SWU ---- LS2SWUA One through 61 shielded pairs
--- LS2WAU LS2WA2/ 40 pairs with overall shield 600 V
LS3SWU LS3SWUS1/ LS3SWA Three through 44 shield triads
LS2SWL-7 ---- LS2SWLA-7 Seven shielded pairs
--- LS2UW-42 LS2UWA-422/ 42 pairs with overall shield

l/Double overall shield.

2/With overall shield.

1.2.3 ~ lx v“ . Cable and cord types for non-

Watertight, nonflexing service are aW fOllOW:

Power and lighting:

IJnarm ored

Type LSDNW ---- LSDNWA Two conductors 1000 v

LS FNW ---- LSFNWA Four conductors 1000 v
LSTNW ---- LSTNWA Three conductors 1000 v
--- LS2SJ LS~A2/TW0 conductors with 600 V
overall shield

Control:

red WLQ3
9ver~

Type LSMNW ---- LSMNWA Seven through 44 1000 v

conductors
--- LSMS LSMSA2/ 37 conductors with 300 v
overall shield
LSMU LSMUS ● LMSA 14 conductors 300 v
LS4NW1/ ---- LS4NWA8 Four conductors
LSBNW6 ---- LS8NWA6 Eight conductors

I/Double overall shield.

2/With overall shield.
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MIL-C-24643A

Electronic, communication and instrumentation:

gvera 11 shield

‘lype LSMRI -- Twisted pair and triad

---- ---- Three, 7 and 12 shield
LSPI
pairs
LSTPNW ---- LSTPNWA 1-1/2 through 40 pairs 300 v
LSISAU ---- LS 1SA 44 shielded shingles
LSISMU ---- LSISMA Five shielded singles
LSISU ---- LSISUA 36 and 60 shielded singles
LS1S50MU LSlS50MUS1/ LS1S50MA 16, 20, 40 and 70 shielded
singles
LS1S75MU ---- LS1S75MA Eight shielded singles
LS2AU Ls2A2/ 40 pairs with overall 600 V
shield
Ls2Ausl/
LS2SU LS2SUS1/ LS2SA Three through 61 shielded
pairs
---- LS2U LS2UA 10 through 60 pairs with 300 v
overall shield
---- LS3SJ LS2JA2i Three conductors with 600 V
overall shield
LS3SU LS3SUS1/ LS 3SA Three through 44 shielded
triads
LS3U ---- LS3UA Three, 7 and 12 triads
---- LS4SJ Ls4sJA2/ Four conductors with 600 V
overall shield
---- LS2CS2/ ---- Six, 18, 42, 60 and 77
pairs with double overall
shield

l/Double overall shield.

2/With overall shield.

1.2.4 Non-watertight flexinu si=r vice . Cable and cord types for non-
watertight flexing service are as follows:

Power and lighting:

marmored !Jnarm~red with -m~rpd

gvera11 shim

Type LSCVSF ---- ---- Four conductors (3 #3 600 V

and 1 #5 AWG)
LSDHOF ---- ---- Two conductors 600 V
LSFHOF ---- ---- Four conductors (2-6 AWG) 600 V
LSSHOF ---- ---- Single conductor 600 V
( 3 through 800 AWG)
LSSRW ---- LSSWRA Single conductor 3000 v
LSSSF ---- ---- Single conductor 600 V
LSTHOF ---- ---- Three conductors 600 v
( 3 through 600 AWG)

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MIL-C-24643A

Control:

Ynarm=esl Pn-=ed with

gnrerall shield

Type LSMHC)F ---- ---- Seven through 61 600 V

conductors

Electronic, communication and instrumentation:

Ynar m -=3 Ynarmo red with @mored

gverall shield

Tj?pe LSDCOP ---- ---- Two conductors 300 v

LSMCOS ----- ---- Multi conductors Shielded 600 V
LSMMOP ---- ---- Five conductors 300 v
LSTCOP ---- ---- Three conductors 300 v
LSTTOP ---- ---- Three through fifteen 300 v
pairs
LSTTRS ---- LS?TRSA Two through 16 shielded 300 v
pairs
LS3SF ---- ---- Seven shielded triads 600 V

2. APPLICABLE DOCUMENTS

2.1 Go ver nment Documents

* ,. The following specifications, and

2.1.1 SDeclflrations ~
standards form a part of this document to the extent specified herein. Unless
otherwise specified, the issues of these documents are those listed in the issue of
the Department of Defense Index of Specifications and Standards (DoDISS) and
supplement thereto, cited in the solicitation (see 6.2) .

SPECIFICATIONS

FEDEW4L
TT-I-735 Isopropyl Alcohol
PPP-V-205 Veneer, Paper Overlaid, Container Grade

MILITARY
MIL-C-572 Cords, Yarns and Monofilament Organic
Symthetic Fiber.
MIL-Y-1140 Yarn, Cord, Sleeving, Cloth and Tape-Glass
MIL-C-2194 Cable, Power and Electrical, Reduced Diameter
Types .
MIL-H-5606 Hydraulic Fluid, Petroleum Base; Aircraft,
Missile, and Ordnance.
MIL-T-5624 Turbine Fuel, Aviation, grades JP-4 and JP-5.
MIL-C-12000 Cable, Cord, and Wire, Electric, Packaging of.
MIL-F-16884 Fuel, Naval Distillate.
MIL-L-17331 Lubricating Oil, Steam Turbine and Gear,
Moderate Semite.
MIL-H-17672 Hydraulic Fluid, Petroleum, Inhibited.

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MIL-C-24643A
SPECIFICATIONS (continued)

MILITARY

MIL-L-23699 Lubricating Oil, Aircraft Turbine Engine,

Synthetic Base.
MIL-S-24235 Stuffing Tubes, Metal, and Packing Assemblies
for Electrical cables, General Specification
for.
MIL-S-24235/l Stuffing Tube, Bulkhead, Pressureproof.
MIL-S-24235/2 Packing Assemblies for Pressureproof Bulkhead
Stuffing Tubes.
MIL-C-B5485 Cable, Electric, Filter Line, Radio Frequency
Absorptive .

(See supplement 1 for list of applicable specification sheets.)

STANDARDS

FEDERAL
DOD-STD-2003 Electric Plant Installation; Standard Methods
for (EPISM).
FED-STD-22B Cable and Wire, Insulated; Methods of Testing.

MILITARY
MIL-STD-129 Marking for Shipment and Storage.

MIL-STD-454 Standard General Requirements for Electronic

Equipment.

(Unless otherwise indicated, copies of federal and military specifications,

and standards are available from the DODSSP - Customer Service, Standardization
Document Order Desk, 700 Robbins Avenue, Bldg. 4D, Philadelphia, PA 19111-5094) .

2.2 The following documents form a part of this document

to the extent specified herein. Unless otherwise specified, the issues of the
documents which are DoD adopted are those listed in the issue of the DODISS cited in
the solicitation. Unless otherwise specified, the issues of documents not listed in
the DODISS are the issues of the documents cited in the solicitation (see 6.2) .

ASTM
B3 Soft or Annealed Copper Wire. (DoD adopted)
B8 Concentric-Lay-Stranded Copper Conductor, Hard, Medium
Hard or Soft. (DoD adopted)
B 33 Tinned Soft or Annealed Copper Wire for Electrical
Purposes. (DoD adopted)
B 172 Rope-Lay-Stranded Copper Conductors Having
Bunch-Stranded Members, for Electrical Conductors.
(DoD adopted)
B 173 Rope-Lay-Stranded Copper Conductors Having
Concentric-Stranded Members, for Electrical
Conductors . (DoD adopted)
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MIL-C-24643A

ASTM (continued)

B 174 Bunch-Stranded Copper Conductors for Electrical

Conductors. (DoD adopted)
B 1E!9 Lead coated and Lead Alloy Coated Soft Copper Wire for
Electrical purposes. (DoD adopted)
B 193 Resistivity of Electrical Conductor Materials. (DoD
adopted)
B 228 Concentric-Lay-Stranded Copper Clad Steel Conductors.
(DoD adopted)
B 258 Standard Nominal Diameters and Cross-Sectional Areas of
AWG Sizes of Solid Round Wires Used as Electrical
Conductors. (DoD adopted)
B 286 Copper Conductors for Use in Hookup wire for Electronic
Equipment. (DoD adopted)
B 355 Nickel Coated Soft or Annealed Copper Wire. (DoD
adopted)
D 297 Rubber Products-Chemical Analysis. (DoD adopted)
D 470 Standard Methods of Testing Crosslinked Insulation and
Jackets for Wire and Cable.
D 1248 Standard Specification for Polyethylene Plastics
Molding and Extrusion Materials.
D 145B Standard Methods of Testing Fully Cured Silicone Rubber
Coated Glass Fabric and Tapes for Electrical
Insulation.
D 2240 Rubber Property Durometer hardness. (DoD adopted)
D 2565 Standard Practice for Operating Xenon tic Type (Water
Cooled) Light-Exposure Apparatus Wire and Without
Water for Exposure of Plastics.

(Application for copies should be addressed to ASTM, 1916 Race Street,

Philadelphia, PA 19103.)

AMERICAN NATIONAL STANDARDS INSTITUTE, INC. (ANSI)

B46.1 Surface texture, Surface Roughness, Waviness and Lay.
(DoD adopted)
MC96.1 Temperature Measurement Thermocouples. (DoD adopted)

(Application for copies should be addressed to American National Standards

Institute, Inc. 1430 Broadway, New York, NY 10018. )

INSTITUTE OF ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONIC ENGINEERS (IEEE)

303 IEEE STD for Type Test of Class IE Electric Cables,
Field Splices and Connections for Nuclear Power
Generating Stations.

(Application for copies should be addressed to the Institute of Electrical and

Electronic Engineers, Inc., 345 East 47th Street New York, NY 10017)

Insulated Cable Engineers Association (ICEA)

T-28-562 Test Method for Measurement of Hot Creep of Polymeric
Insulations.

(Application for copies should be addressed to the Insulated Engineers

Association, PO Box 440, South Yarmouth MA 02664)

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MIL-C-24643A

NATIONAL ELECTRICAL MANUFACTURES ASSOCIATION (NEMA)

WC-61 Surface Transfer Impedance

(Application for copies should be addressed to the National Electrical

Manufacturers Association, Suite 300, 2101 L Street, N.W. Washington,
DC 20037)

NAVAL ENGINEERING STANDARDS (NES)

711 Determination of the Smoke Index of the Products of
Combustion from Small Specimens of Materials, Issue 2 (1/81) .
713 Determination of the Toxicity Index of the Products of
Combustion from Small Specimens of Material, Issue 3 (3/85) .

(Copies of Naval Engineering Standards are sponsored by the Procurement

Executive, Ministry of Defense, Ship Department, Section TE112, Block G, Foxhill,
Bath 5AB England.)

(Non-Government standards and other publications are normally available from

the organizations that prepare or distribute the documents. These documents also
may be available in or through libraries or other informational services. )

2.3 ~ In the event of a conflict between the text of this

document and the references cited herein (except for related associated detail
specifications, specification sheets, or MS standards) , the text of this document
will take precedence. Nothing in this document, however, supersedes applicable laws
and regulations unless a specific exemption has been obtained.

3. REQUIREMENTS

3.1 The individual item requirements shall be as

specified herein and in accordance with the applicable specification sheet. In the
event of a conflict between the requirements of this specification and the
specification sheet, the latter shall govern.

3.2 Pualificati= Cables and cords furnished under this specification

shall be products which are authorized by the qualifying activity for listing on the
applicable qualified products list at the time of award of contract (see 4.3 and
6.4).

3.3 Materials. Materials used in construction of those cables or cords

requiring qualification shall have the written approval of NAVSEA. In the case of
cables or cords not requiring qualification, NAVSEA approval will not be required,
and materials in these cables shall be in accordance with the requirements shown in
the applicable specification sheets.

3.3.1 Conducto rs,

3.3.1.1 -@DDe r c&ctors . Copper conductors shall be composed of soft or

annealed copper strands in accordance with ASl?4 B 3.

3.3.1.2 Uah strwcath conductors. Unless otherwise specified on the

specification sheet, high strength conductors shall be composed of 30 percent
conductivity, high strength, copper-covered steel strands in accordance with ASTM
B228.

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MIL-C-24643A

3.3.1.3 an co~rma. Tin coating shall be in accordance with

AS’IY4B 33.

3.3.1.4 head or le~lov CO~FinL Lead or lead alloy coating shall be in

accordance with ASTM B 189.

3.3.1.5 Nickel coat inq. Nickel coating shall be in accordance with class 2 of
ASl?4 B 355.

3.3.1.6 The~OCOUDle wire , Conductors for thermocouple cables shall be in

accordance with ANSI MC96.1.

3.3.2 ~=ula~-. Insulation shall be as specified on the applicable

specification sheet, except silicone rubber coated glass fabric tape insulation
shall be as specified in 3.3.2.1.

3.3.2.1 Silimne r~er row alass fabr~ taD& The silicone rubber coated
glass fabric tape insulation shall, before application to a conductor, have a
dielectric strength of not less than 475 V per mil for tapes which are less than 8.8
roils thick, and 575 V per mil for tapes which are 8.9 roils or more in thickness.
These dielectric strength values shall be met after the tapes have been conditioned
for 24 hours at 23 degrees

Celsius (“C) and 96 percent relative humidity and tested while maintaining
temperature and humidity conditions in accordance with the short time dielectric
breakdown test in accordance with AS~ D 1458. Extruded silicone rubber insulation
shall have a specific gravity of not more than 1.55. Other physical and electrical
properties shall be as specified in the specification sheets.

3.3.3 Jackets. The material used for jackets over insulated conductor and
groups of insulated conductors, and for the cable or cord jacket, shall have the
physical and electrical properties as required by the applicable specification sheet
and as specified herein. Unless otherwise specified in the applicable specification
sheet, the color of the cable or cord jacket shall be black.

3.3.4 ~. The materials and constructions for shields of insulated

conductors, groups of insulated conductors and overall cable and cord shall be as
specified in the specification sheet. When AWG sizes are specified for wire
shields, they shall be in accordance with ASTM B 258.

●
3.3.5 ~. Unless otherwise specified in the applicable specification
sheet, fillers for cables or cords of the flex/bending type intended for flexing
applications, only fibrous fillers shall be used. For non-flexing types, solid or
fibrous filler materials shall be acceptable. Fillers for cables or cords which are
required to be watertight shall be nonfibrous or a combination of nonfibrous and
fibrous.

3.3.5.1 YibrQus fill=. Fibrous fillers shall be treated for flame or

moisture resistance, or a combination of both, to meet the requirements for the
particular type of cable or cord.

●
3.3.5.2 lJonfWous fi~~ Nonfibrous fillers shall consist of
elastomeric material which is removable from insulation of conductors and insulating
coverings over the shields without the use of chemicals or tools.

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MIL-C-24643A

3.3.5.3 ~ (water~. Water blocking compound used

in cable and shield interstices shall be compatible with all other cable materials.
The compound shall be clean, nontacky to the touch and shall leave no residue on the
installers hands. The compound shall be free stripping from the cable components
and shield by hand and shall not require the use of chemicals or other mechanical
means of removal . The compound shall not interfere with any termination technique
used with finished cable, shields or components. The compatibility of the compound
shall be in accordance with 4.7.8 and 4.7.9.

* 3.3.6 -. Unless otherwise specified (see 3.1), tapes shall be PolYester~

type G in accordance with MIL-I-631. Tapes applied over shield braids for singles,
twisted pairs and triads, shall be sealed or set to prevent unwinding freely, but
shall be easily removable for wire and/or shield termination.

3.3.7 Fraids (identification). Colored braids used for conductor or group

identification shall be in accordance with MIL-C-572.

3.3.8 ~ (CTw. Glass braids for use on silicone insulated conductors

shall be composed of the appropriate size of either staple or continuous fiber in
accordance with MIL-Y-1140.

3.3.9 Tie cords . Tie cords shall be of synthetic fiber having a maximum
diameter of 0.065 inch and a minimum breaking strength of 30 pounds.

3.3.10 ~ Separators, when required, shall be of a material that is

compatible with other cable materials. The compatibility of the material shall be
in accordance with 4.7.8 and 4.7.9.

3.3.11 J?einfor~. Reinforcing binders or reinforcement for a single or

double layer jacket shall be a cord having a minimum breaking strength of 15 pounds
and shall be compatible with other cable components. Compatibility of components
shall be as determined in accordance with 4.7.24.

3.3.12 tiders. Binders shall be of a material compatible with the other

cable materials. The compatibility of the material shall be in accordance with
4.7.8 and 4.7.9.

3.3.13 The armor wires shall consist of Alclad 5056 or 5154

aluminum alloy having a diameter of 0.0126+ 0.0005 inch. A minimum tensile strength
of 50,000 pounds per square inch (lb/in2) and a minimum elongation (before
application to the cable) of 2 percent in 10 inch length.

3.3.14 Re~. All nonmetallic materials shall be fungus inert

and shall be certified that they meet the requirements of requirement 4 of MIL-STD-
454.

3.3.15 Yazardous I terns and tox ~r materials. The material shall have no
adverse effect on the health of personnel when used for its intended purpose.
Questions pertinent to this effect shall be referred by the contracting activity to
the appropriate department medical service who will act as an advisor to the
contracting agency. Regardless of any other requirements, materials and parts
containing asbestos, mercury or mercury compounds or those giving off excessive
toxic fumes (see 4.7.29) shall not be used.

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MIL-C-24643A

3.3.16 All materials included in the const~ction of the

cable shall be examined and tested to ensure conformance to this specification and
applicable specification sheet. Once a cable construction has been fully qualified,
no materials may be added, deleted or modified, without the written approval of
NAVSEA . Any addition, deletion or modification of materials within a cable
construction shall require requalification.

3.3.17 J+ecOvered materials. Unless otherwise specified herein, all

equipment, material and articles incorporated in the products covered by this
specification shall be new and shall be fabricated using materials produced from
recovered materials to the maximum extent practicable without jeopardizing the
intended use. The term “recovered materials” means materials which have been
collected or recovered from solid waste and reprocessed to become a source of raw
materials, as opposed to virgin raw materials. None of the above shall be
interpreted to mean thae the use of used or rebuilt products is allowed under this
specification unless otherwise specified.

3.4.1 =nductor str~. The size and quantity of individual conductor

strands and the total circular-roil area of the conductor shall be in accordance with
ASTMB 8, B 286, B 173 or B 174 as specified in the specification sheet and tables I
through VIII.

3.4.1.1 120ncentric lav strandecl. The length and direction of lay and the
type and number of joints in concentric lay stranded conductors shall be in
accordance with AS~ B 8 or B 286 as applicable.

3.4-1.2 WxLWauM. The length and direction of lay and the type and
number of joints in bunch stranded conductors shall be in accordance with AS’IM B
174.

3.4.1.3 ~. The length and direction of lay and the type and
number of joints in rope lay stranded conductors shall be in accordance with AS’I?4B
172 or B 173 as applicable.

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MIL-C-24643A

TABLE I.

Conductor Number Strand Conductor Conductor Weight

size of diameter diameter cross-sectional per 1000
AS’IYlB 2B6 strands nominal nominal area , nominal feet
designation (rein) (inch) (inch) (circular roils) approximate
(pounds)
12-37 37 0.0126 0.088 5874 20.20
12-19 19 .0179 .091 6088 20.20
14-19 19 .0142 .072 3831 12.65

16-19 19 .0113 .057 2426 7.97

18-19 19 .0100 .051 1900 5.02
18-7 7 .0159 .049 1770 5.02

20-19 19 .0080 .041 1216 3.16

20-7 7 .0126 .038 1111 3.16
22-19 19 .0063 .032 754 1.98

22-7 7 .0100 .031 700 1.98

24-19 19 .0050 .026 474 1.24
24-7 7 .00B0 .025 448 1.24

26-19 19 .0040 .021 304 .780

26-7 7 .0063 .020 278 .780
28-19 19 .0031 .016 183 .490

28-7 7 .0050 . .016 175 .490

30-7 7 .0040 .013 112 .309

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MIL-C-24643A

TABLE II. Construction re~re ents of co~tri c lay stranded

~

Class B Class C Class D

ties of Size, Num. Dia. of Num. Dia. of Num. Dia. of
cross American of strands of strands of strands
section (or EMS Stds (roils) stds (roils) stds (roils)
(circular wire
roils) gage )
2,000,000 ---- 127 125.5 ---- ---- ---- ----
1,600,000 ---- 127 112.2 ---- ---- ---- ----
1,300,000 ---- --- ----- 127 101.2 ---- ----
1,000,000 ---- --- ----- ---- ---- 127 88.7
800,000 ---- --- ----- ---- ---- 127 79.4
650, 000 ---- --- ----- ---- ---- 127 71.5
550, 000 ---- --- ----- ---- ---- 127 65.8
350,000 ---- --- ----- ---- ---- 91 62.0
300,000 ---- --- ----- ---- ---- 91 57.4
250,000 ---- --- ----- 61 64.0 --- ----
211,600 0000 --- ----- ---- ---- 61 58.9
167,800 000 --- ----- ---- ---- 61 52.4
133,100 00 --- ---- - ---- ---- 61 46.7
105,600 0 --- ----- ---- ---- 61 41.6
83,690 1 --- ----- 37 47.6 --- ----
66,360 2 --- ----- ---- ---- 37 42.4
52,620 3 --- ----- 19 52.6 --- ----
41,740 4 --- ---- - 19 46.9 --- ----
33,090 5 --- ----- 19 41.7 --- ----
26,240 6 7 61.2 ---- ---- --- ----
20,820 7 7 54.5 ---- ---- --- ----
13,090 9 7 43.2 ---- ----- --- ----
10,380 10 7 38.5 ---- ----- --- ----
6,530 12 7 30.5 ---- ----- --- ----
4,110 14 7 24.2 ---- ----- --- ----
2,580 16 7 19.2 19 11.7 --- ----
1,620 18 7 15.2 ---- ----- --- ----
1,020 20 7 12.1 ---- ---- - --- ----

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MIL-C-24643A

TABLE III. Dla me~s of co~lc lav stranded

~

\ I Amrox.
. . weiqht lbs
Size of Nominal
conductor, cond Area
circular roils dia. class (square per per mile
or AWG numbers B in.) 100oft
(inches)
2,000,000 cmil 1.632 1.571 6,175 32,600
1,600,000 cmil 1.459 1.257 4,940 26,080
1,300,000 cmil 1.315 1.021 4,104 21,190
1,000,000 cmil 1.152 0.7854 3,088 16,300
800,000 cmil 1.031 .6283 2,470 13,040
650,000 cmil .929 .5105 2,007 10,600
550,000 cmil .B55 .4320 1,698 0,966
350,000 cmil .681 .2749 1,081 5,706
300,000 cmil .630 .2356 926.3 4,891
250,000 cmil .575 .1963 771.9 4,076
No. 0000 .528 .1662 653.3 3,450
No. 000 .470 .1318 518.1 2,736
No. 00 .419 .1045 410.9 2,169
No. O .373 .08289 325.8 1,720
No. 1 .332 .06573 258.4 1,364
No. 2 .292 .05213 204.9 1,082
No. 3 .260 .04134 162.5 858.1
No. 4 .232 .03278 128.9 680.5
No. 5 .206 .02600 102.2 539.6
No. 6 .184 .02062 81.05 428.0
No. 7 .164 .01635 64.28 339.4
No. 9 .130 .01028 40.42 213.4
No. 10 .116 .000155 32.06 169.3
No. 12 .0915 .005129 20.16 106.5
No. 14 .0726 .003225 12.68 66.95
No. 16 .0576 .002028 7.974 42.10
No. 18 .0456 .001276 5.015 26.48
No. 20 .0363 .0008023 3.154 16.65
*

14
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MIL-C-24643A

TABLE IV.
1/~ ~.

Nom. Nom. Nom.

no. of no. of no. of
Area of strands strands Strands
cross 0.0201 0.0100 0.0063
sect ion inch in inch in inch in
(circu- dia. dia. dia.
lar Size (no.24 Strand (no. 30 Strand (no. 34 Strand
roils) (AWG) AWG ) Const. AWG ) Const. AWG ) Const.
650,000 --- 1,596 19x7x12 6,517 19X7X49 16,226 61x7x38
600,000 --- 1,470 7X7X3 o 5,985 19X7X45 14,945 61x7x35
500,000 --- 1,225 7x7x25 5,054 19x7x38 12,691 37x7x49
300, 000 --- 735 7X7X15 2,989 7x7x61 7,851 19X7X57
250,000 --- 637 7X7X13 2,499 7X7X51 6,384 19x7x48
211,600 0000 532 19x2 8 2,107 7x7x43 5,320 19X7X40
167,800 000 418 19x22 1,666 7x7x34 4,256 19x7x32
133,100 00 342 19x18 1,323 7x7x2 7 3,325 19x7x25
105,600 0 266 19X14 1,064 19x56 2,646 7x7x54
83,690 1 210 7x3 o 836 19X44 2,107 7x7x4 3
66,360 2 161 7x23 665 19X35 1,666 7x7x34
52,620 3 133 7X19 532 19x28 1,323 7x7x27
41,740 4 105 7X15 420 7x6 O 1,064 19x56
33,090 5 84 7x12 336 7x4 8 836 19x44
26,240 6 63 7x9 . 266 7x3 8 665 19X35
20,820 7 ---- ---- 210 7X30 532 19x28
13,090 9 ---- ---- 133 7X19 336 7x4 8
6,530 12 ---- ---- ---- ---- 168 7x24

~/ The designations of strand construction in accordance with table IV indicated by

means of the last number (at the right hand) the number of individual wires
contained in the smallest bunch stranded member of the conductor. The preceding
number (to the left of the “X”) indicates the number of these stranded members which
are cabled together to form a rope stranded conductor or a rope stranded member of a
larger conductor. A third number preceding these indicates the.number of these rope
stranded members which are cabled together to form a larger rope stranded conductor.
For example, 19x7x25 indicates that 25 wires are bunched stranded into a stranded
member; 7 of these members are stranded into a rope lay member and then 19 of these
7 by 25 members are formed into a larger rope stranded conductor having a total of
3325 wires. Strand construction other than specified above shall be approved by
NAVSEA .

15
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MIL-C-24643A

TABLE V.
gondurrors~d v“ ~ 7.

lass b
I I

Area Num. Dia. of Num. Num. Dia. of Num.

of cross of strand stds of strand stds
I sect ion Size stds . (roils) each Stds . (roils) each
(cir. roils) (AWG ) mem. mem.
650,000 ---- 427 39.0 7 --- ---- - ----
600,000 ---- 427 37.5 7 --- ----- ----
500, 000 ---- 259 43.9 7 --- ---- - ----
300,000 --- - 259 34.0 7 --- ----- ----
167,800 000 --- ---- --- 259 25.5 7
133,100 00 --- ---- --- 259 22.7 7
105,600 0 --- ---- --- 259 20.2 7
26,240 6 49 23.1 7 --- ---- - ----
20.820 7 49 20.6 7 --- ----- ----

TAELE VI. &Dro ximate diameters and weiah~s of~ted conducr~

ASTM B 173.

1 Class G I Class H
1
Area Num. Outside Wt . Num. Outside Wt .
of cross of iameter. (lb/ of diameter (lb/
section Size stds . (inches) 1000 stds . (inches) 1000
(cir. roils) (AWG) 1 ft.) ft.)
650,000 ---- ~ 1.053 2,070 --- ---- - ----
600,000 ---- 427 1.013 1,910 --- ----- ----
500,000 ---- 259 0.922 1,585 --- ----- ----
300,000 ---- 259 .714 945 --- ----- ----
167,800 000 --- ----- --- 259 0.536 533
133,100 00 --- ---- - --- 259 .477 422
105,600 0 --- ----- --- 259 .424 334
26,240 6 49 0.208 82 --- ----- ----
20.820 7 49 .185 65 --- ----- ----

16
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MIL-C-24643A

TABLE VII. on re~ta of

*~~14 7

I Class K I Class M I Class o

Minimum Minimum Minimum

I
I
Area of cross number number number
section Size of strands of strands of strands
(circular roils) (AWG) 0.0100 inch 0.0063 inch 0.0050 inch
in diameter in diameter
(no.34 AWG) (no. 36 AWG)
6,530 ----- .----
I =-+==-
4,110 14 41 104 -----
2,500 16 I 26 65 104
1,620 18 41 65
1,020 2 o“ ;:0 26 41
640 22 7 19 -----
404 24 --- ---- 19

J./ AS an alternative to the construction shown for hookup wire, size 20 AWG may be
supplied with 8 strands of 0.0100 inch diameter around 1 strand of 0.0142 inch
diameter.
I TABLE VIII. NAVY standard slz~

[Conductor IPlzximum I

I
crose conductor
●octiond moimtenre
e.raa I D.C. I
I[eireular lD*r 1000ft I I
mili! at 25° C I
NO. Std Cond. m .
●ize of dia. di=. pmr
law ●tds nom. nail. 1000
standerd (rninl (inch) (inch) Nom.&/ Min. Bare coated ft.,
lb-
Concentric
lay
●t randed --t-
400 (127) 127 0.057 0.742 413,600 405,400 0.0268 0.0273 1,300
Bunch lay
● truaded
9(90) 90 .010 .120 9,045 8,864 1.22

E%-
140 .010 .14s 14,070 13,790 .786

42(209) 209 .014 .260 42,100 41,280 .272 .284 130

60(304) 304 .014 .310 61,200 60,040 .187 .196 190
63 (418) 418 .014 .380 04,230 82,560 .136 .142 270
133(648) 684 .014 .480 137,800 L35.100 .0830 .0867 440
150(760) ‘?6
O .014 .510 153,100 150,100 .0747 .0780 490
200(998) 998 .014 .s80 199,100 195,100 .0575 .0600 630
250(1254) 1254 .014 .680 252,700 247,700 .0453 .0472 800
400(20S2) 2052 .014 .050 413,500 405,300 .0277 .0289 1,300
800(4033) &033 .014 1.150 812,700 796,5oo .0141 .0148 2,600
P (
u Values are for information only.
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MIL-C-24643A

3.4.2 SmamaLL Separators employed directly over conductors shall be

applied to give not less than 100 percent coverage to the conductors.

3.4.3

3.4.3.1 Extruded insulat ion . Extruded insulation shall be applied

concentrically to the dimensions required by the specification sheet.

3.4.3.2 Tapes used as insulation shall be applied in such

a manner that they lie smoothly and free from wrinkles. The tape width shall be
proper for the diameter over which it is applied so as to minimize splits, creases,
and edge tears when the completed cable is subjected to bending. Registrations
shall be held to a minimum.

●
3.4.3.2.1 &.ilicone rubber alass taDw . Silicone rubber glass tapes shall be
held from unwinding from conductors when the conductors are exposed and subjected to
normal handling during splicing and terminating. The tapes may be held from
unwinding by the use of self-bonding tapes, by the use of silicone rubber adhesive,
heat sealable polyester tapes, or an extruded covering over the insulating tapes.
Voids within the insulating wall shall be filled with a compound so as to exclude
air and moisture and prevent the passage of water through the insulation. Any
adhesive or self sealing compound shall have no deleterious effect on the other
cable parts during tests or during the normal service life of the cable.

●
3.4.4 Glass braida. Glass braids for use on extruded silicone rubber
insulation shall have a thickness of 0.006* 0.0005 inch. The braid coverage shall
be a minimum of 80 % and the braid angle shall be such that the completed cable
shall meet all inspection and test requirements.

●
3.4.5 ~. v’ v Unless otherwise specified (see
3.1), when a specification sheet requires a covering over the glass braid, the
covering shall consist of a layer or layers of a black material that provides high
resistance to moisture, abrasion, hydraulic fluids, and provide a smooth surface for
printed identification marking. The surface shall be smooth and free from
irregularities and discontinuities.

* 3.4.6 ~- Fillers shall be used to provide firmness and roundness of

completed cables or cords. where watertight construction is specified (see 3.1),
fillers shall be waterblocking compounds which prevent the passage of water
longitudinally through the cable or cord.

3.4.7 ~. A binder shall be employed over the assembled core of cables

or cords to provide a firm core and to serve as a barrier between the core and cable
or cord jacket.

3.4.8 ~. Shields, when specified in the applicable specification

sheet, shall be of the push back type and shall be constructed to conform to the
physical and electrical requirements specified in the applicable specification
sheet . The shield shall be of a close fitting braid construction and shall be free
from irregularities and discontinuities. Individual wire strands may be spliced,
but not more than one carrier may be spliced at any one point. When the braided
shield is CUC, it shall be capable of sliding back not less than 4 inches on an
exposed 24 inch length of component wire or cable with the opposite end clamped.

18
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t41L-C-24643A

●
3.4.8.1 ~~ . Braided wire shield shall have the angle of
application and the percent coverage as required in the specification sheet. The
percent coverage and the angle of application shall be determined by the following
formula:

Percent covErage (k) - 100 (2F-F2)

Where F . NPd/Sin a
Tan a = 2x3.14159 (D+2d)P/C
a = acute angle of braid with axis of cable or cord
d = diameter (inch) of individual braid wires
D = diameter (inch) of cable under braid
N - number of wires per carrier
c = number of carriers
P = picks per inch of cable or cord length

3.4.8.2 . Double shields shall have the angle of application

and the percent of coverage as required in the specification sheet. The material
and percent of separator tape coverage between double shields shall be as required
by the applicable specification sheet.

3.4.8.3 Shield insulation. Shield insulation shall consist of two polyester

tapes, type G in accordance with MIL-I-631, sealed. XUI alternate shield insulation
may consist of one tape, type G of MIL-I-631, plus an extruded jacket of a suitable
translucent material, minimum average thickness of the transparent material 0.003
inch. The standard identification code shall be applied by method 2 on the inner
tape.

3.4.9 Watertiuhtnes~. Where watertight cable construction is specified (see

3.1), voids within the cable or cord constr~ction shall be filled to prevent the
passage of water longitudinally through the cable or cord.

3.4.10 ~acket re~. Where a reinforced jacket is specified (see

3.1), the jacket shall be applied in two layers with a cord applied as a braid or
two reverse serves between the layers. The minimum thickness of the outer layer of
jacket shall be 50 percent of the total. The reinforcement shall be applied with
the approximately four picks or crossover per inch. (see 3.3.11).

3.4.11 ~ . The armor shall be applied in the form of a braid. The

weave of the braid shall be of either the “one over - one under” or the “two over -
two under” type. The weave shall be such that the wires of a carrier are laid
closely together, flat and parallel. The braid shall be applied with maximum
tension possible so as to prevent loosening and creeping but not to cause broken
ends. The braid shall remain snug to the cable jacket and not spring away when cut.
Splices in the braid stands shall be infrewent, staggered and inconspicuous so as
not to increase the nominal diameter of the cable or result in rough spots. The
selection of the number of wires per carrier and the number of carriers per braid
shall be such as to produce a basket weave to give a minimum of 88 percent coverage
and a braid angle within the limits as specified in table IX. The number of wireg
per carrier shall be not more than as specified in table X.
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MIL-C-24643A

TABLE IX.

over jacket Minimum Maximum

(inches) (degrees) (degrees)
0.100 - 0.600 30 60
.601 - 1.000 35 60
1.001 - 1.500 40 70
1.501 - 2.000 45 70
2.001 - 3.000 50 80
/

TABLE X. Wires De r carrier

i
Diameter One over Two over
under braid One under Two under
(inches)
0.100 - 0.400 8 5
1401 - .800 12 10
.801 - 3.000 16 10

3.4.11.1 Coveraue. The coverage shall be as determined by the following

formula:

Percent coverage (k) = 100 (2F-F2)

Where F - NPd/Sin a
Tan a = 2x3.14159 (D+2d)P/C
a = acute angle of braid with axis of cable or cord
d = diameter (inch) of individual braid wires
D = diameter (inch) of cable under braid
N - number of wires per carrier
C = number of carriers
P . picks per inch of cable or cord length

3.4.12 ~ . Where minimum or maximum dimensions, or both

are specified, no minus or plus tolerances, respectively, shall be permitted. Where
no minimum overall cable or cord diameter is specified, the minimum permissible
diameter shall be not less the 92 1/2 percent of the specified maximum overall cable
or cord diameter. Where a specification sheet gives the maximum overall diameter
for unarmored cables and the cable is acquired with armor, the maximum overall
diameter shall be increased by 0.050 inch. NOTE : Caution should be exercised when
designing armored cables since the use of 28 AWG aluminum armor results in an actual
increase in overall diameter of as much as 0.060 inch.

3.4 .12.1 Nominal Dimensions. Where a dimension is specified as nominal, it

shall be for reference purpose only and shall not be construed as a requirement.
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MIL-C-24643A

* 3.4.12.2 ~ . For conductor

insulation wall thickness specified as minimum average, the minimum thickness,
measured at any cross section, shall be not less than 90 percent of the specified
minimum average.

3 .4.12.3 Cab le or cord iacket thickness. In case of multiconductor cables or

cords, the jacket thickness shall be determined from the measurements made at the
high point of each conductor taken on a line through the center of the cable or cord
and through the center of each conductor in the outer layer. The average of 4 such
readings shall be used to compute the minimum average readings taken at 90 deg
intervals around the cable. In the case of cables with 2 or 3 components, 2 or 3
readings respectively, shall be taken at the component high points, these readings
shall be used to compute the minimum average. The minimum thickness at any cross
section shall be not less than 80 percent of the minimum average.

3.4.13

3.4.13.1 lar~. The insulation on the individual conductors shall be

uniform in diameter throughout the conductor length. At any cross section, the
maximum wall thickness shall not exceed the minimum by more than 25 percent for
specified thickness greater than 0.025 inch, nor by more than 40 percent for
specified thickness of 0.025 or less.

3.4.13.2 Cable or cord lacke~. The cable or cord jacket shall be applied
concentrically to the cable or cord core in a manner to maintain circularity in the
completed cable or cord. The maximum wall thickness of the jacket at any cross
section shall not exceed the minimum by more than 66 percent.
,.
3.4.14 Jdentlf-tion codes ~ . Individual conductors and groups of
conductors shall be separately identified. The applicable identification code and
method by which the code is applied shall be as specified in the specification
sheet.

. .
3.4.14.1 ~dent~on codes.

3.4 .14.1.1 Standard identification code shall

be in accordance with table XI.

.21
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MIL-C-24643A

TABLE XI.

Color, conductor Background First tracer Second tracer

or group no. or base color color color
1 Black ---- ----
2 White ---- ----
3 Red ---- --
4 Green ---- ----
!5 Orange ---- ----

6 Blue ---- ----

7 White Black ----
8 Red Black ----
9 Green Black ----
10 Orange Black --- -

11 Blue Black ----

12 Black White ----
13 Red Uhite ----
14 Green White ----
15 Blue White ----

16 Black Red ----

17 dhite Red ----
18 Drange Red ----
19 31ue Zed ---
20 ?ed 3reen ----

21 lrange dreen ----

22 31ack #bite 3ed
23 Uhite hack ted
24 ted 31ack Jhite
25 ;reen 31ack ihite

26 )range ilack mite

27 ilue slack ihite
28 slack led Jreen
29 Ihite ted ;reen
30 led ]lack ;reen

31 keen }lack )range

32 )range hack ;reen
33 hue Thite )range
34 hack lhite )range
35 lhite !ed )range

36 )range Ihite Ilue

37 Ihite :ed \lue
38 mown ---- ---
39 ,rown lack
40 ,rown Ihite ---

22
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MIL-C-24643A
,.
TABLE XI. d ide~ continued

Color, conductor Background First tracer Second tracer

or group no. or base color color color
41 Brown Red ----
42 Brown Green ----
43 Brown Orange ----
44 Brown Blue ----
45 White Black Blue

46 Red White Blue

47 Green Orange Red
48 Orange Red Blue
49 Blue Red” Orange
50 Black Orange Red

51 White Black Orange

52 Red Orange Black
53 Green Red Blue
54 Orange Black Blue
55 Blue Black Orange

56 Black Orange Green

57 white Orange Green
58 Red Orange Green
59 Green Black Blue
60 Drange Green Blue

61 Blue 3reen 3range

62 Black Red Blue
63 Nhite 3range Blue
64 Red Black Blue
65 >reen Drange Blue

66 orange Mhite led

67 31ue Nhite %ed
68 31ack >reen 31ue
69 mite ;reen 31ue
70 ted :reen 31ue

71 ;reen Vhite led

72 )range led 31ack
73 31ue ted 31ack
74 31ack lrange 31ue
75 ted )range %lue

76 keen ted slack

77 )range ~hite ;reen
78 hue Vhite ;reen
79 Led mite )range
80 ;reen {bite )range

23
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?41L-C-24643A
,.
TABLE XI. rd id~ co(& continued

Color, conductor Background First tracer Second tracer

or group no. or base color color color
81 Blue Black Green
82 Orange White ----
83 Green Red
84 Black Green ----
05 White Green ----

86 Blue Green ----

87 Black Orange ----
88 White Orange ----
89 Red Orange ----
90 Green Orange ----

91 Blue Orange ----

92 Black Blue ----
93 White Blue ----
94 Red Blue ----
95 Green Blue ----

96 Orange Blue ----

97 Yellow ---- ----
98 Yellow Black ----
99 Yellow White ----
100 Yellow Red ----

101 Yellow Green ----

102 Yellow Orange ----
103 fellow Blue ----
104 31ack Yellow ----
105 #bite Yellow ----

106 led Yellow ----

107 ;reen Yellow ----
10B )range Yellow ,---
109 31ue Yellow ----
110 dlack Yellow ted

111 White Yellow led

112 3reen Yellow led
113 3range Yellow led
114 Blue Yellow ted
115 Black Yellow mite

116 ?ed Yellow ?hite

117 ;reen Yellow tiite
118 >range Yellow ?hite
119 31ue Yellow Thite
120 31ack Yellow ;reen

24
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MIL-C-24643A

TABLE XI. ~tan@d ldenrifl~ continued

Color, conductor Background First tracer Second tracer

or group no. or base color color color
121 White Yellow Green
122 Red Yellow Green
123 Orange Yellow Green
124 Blue Yellow Green
125 Black Yellow Blue

126 White Yellow Blue

127 Red Yellow Blue

3.4.14 .1.2 cation . Conductor identification code for

telephone cables shall be as follows:

Color or Color or
~ondurtor no.- .@&z

1 Black 7 Brown
2 White 8 Gray
3 Red 9 Yellow
4 Green 10 Purple
5 Orange 11 Tan
6 Blue 12 Pink

The pairing of conductors for forming pairs shall be as follows:

No. 1 paired with nos. 2 thru 12”for first 11 pairs

No. 2 paired with nos. 3 thru 12 for next 10 pairs
No. 3 paired with nos. 4 thru 12 for next 9 pairs
No. 4 paired with nos. 5 thru 12 for next 8 pairs
No. 5 paired with nos. 6 thru 12 for next 7 pairs
No. 6 paired with nos. 7 thru 12 for next 6 pairs
No. 7 paired with nos. 8 thru 12 for next 5 pairs
No. 8 paired with nos. 9 thru 12 for next 4 pairs
No. 9 paired with nos. 10 thru 12 for next 3 pairs
No. 10 paired with nos. 11 thru 12 for next 2 pairs
No. 11 paired with no. 12
,..
3.4.14.1.3 5Decial on code . Special identification code shall be
in accordance with the following:

Color or Color or
tor no. Colox

1 Black 7 Brown
2 White B Gray
3 Red 9 Yellow
4 Green 10 Purple
5 Orange 11 Tan
6 Blue 12 Pink

25
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MIL-C-24643A
. .
3 .4.14.1.4 utter i~rarion code. Letter identification code shall
consist of the letters A, B, C and D printed in block type and with black, white,
red and green ink respectively.

3.4 .14.1.5 Twisted Dal r identification code . This code shall consist of the
numbers in sequence running from 1 through the number corresponding to the total
number of twisted pairs in the cable. Both conductors in each pair shall be
numbered the same, denoting the sequence number of the pair. Distinction between
the two conductors is provided by different colored insulation. Conductors of a
cable with a single pair need not be numbered.

3.4 .14.1.6 g.’wistedTriad ld~cat!. Ion code. This code shall consist of the
numbers in sequence running from 1 through the number corresponding to the total
quantity of twisted triads in the cable. Three conductors shall be numbered the
same, denoting the sequence number of the triad; distinction between the three
conductors is provided by different colored insulation. Conductors of a cable with
a single triad need not be numbered.

3.4 .14.2 Jde notification methods.

3.4 .14.2.1 P&&hS@J. Identification method 1 shall be surface printing of

both number and color designations. The legend shall be printed in contrasting
color: preferably white ink on black or dark background or black ink on white or
light background. The printing can be on the conductor insulation provided the
jacket is transparent or on the jacket if the jacket is not transparent. The legend
shall be repeated at intervals not exceeding 3 inches and alternate legends shall be
inverted. For example 10 ORANGE BLACK )K)V”1835NV?30 01- The character type shall
be block or italic and shall have a height in accordance with the diameter over
which it is applied as follows:

Diameter range Height of character

(m
0.045 CO 0.070 ..................... 0.025
.070to .095 ..................... .031
.095to .115 ..................... .047
.115 to .200 ..................... .062
.190 to .250 ..................... .078
.235 to .325 ..................... .094
.330 and larger ................... .125

●
3.4.14.2-2 ~. Identification method 2 shall be the use of translucent
(opaque) polyester tapes which have been printed with both the number and the color
designation. The legend shall be printed with black ink and shall be repeated at
intervals not exceeding 3 inches and alternate legends shall be inverted. The
character type shall be block and shall be approximately 3/32 inch height.

3.2.14.2.3 U2LhQSU. Identification method 3 shall be the use of solid base

colors or solid base colors with tracers as required. The base color may be either
the color or the insulation or the color of a coating applied to the insulation.
The tracers shall be approximately 1/32 inch wide ink stripes of the required color
applied helically with 1 1/2 + 1/4 inch lay. If two tracers are required, the
second shall be half the width of the first.
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MIL-C-24643A

3.4.14.2.4 !!kmQ!u. Identification method 4 shall be the use of colored

braids. Tracers shall consists of the required colors applied by three adjacent
carriers. Where two tracers are required, they shall be applied with reverse lay.

3.4 .14.2.5 ~. Identification method 5 shall be the use of the printed

letter on the outermost insulating tape or the printed letter on a polyester binder
tape over the insulating tapes. The letters shall be approximately 3/16 inch high
and shall have been printed at intervals not exceeding 3 inches prior to the
application of the tape to the conductor. If the insulating tapes are white, no
printing is required on the B (white) conductor.

3.4.14.2.6 ~. Identification method 6 shall consist of numerals

printed in ink on the conductor insulation. For conductors having a jacket directly
over the insulation, the numerals may be printed in ink on the jacket, at the
manufacturer’s option. White ink shall be used for a red or black background; black
ink shall be used for a white background. Numerals may be perpendicular or parallel
to the longitudinal axis of the conductor (see figure 1) . Numeral width shall be
proportional to conductor outside diameter (o.d.) as follows:

Diameter range Height of character

(inch) wnrox imate (inrh}

o.045to o.070 ..................... 0.025

.071 to .095 ...................... .031
.096to .115 ...................... .047
.115 to .200 ...................... .062
.190 to .250 ...................... .078
.235 to .325 .................... .. .094
.330 and larger ..................... .125

Numeral height shall be 2 1/2 to 3 times numeral width. Each numeric legend shall
be underlined. Two digit legends which are parallel to the longitudinal axis shall
have the bottom numeral underlined. Legends shall be alternately inverted and shall
be repeated at intervals not greater than 1 1/2 inches.

3.4.15 Unless otherwise indicated on the

specification sheet, cables and cords shall contain a continuous, thin, moisture
resistant marker tape, not less than 1/10 inch wide. The marker tape shall be
placed directly under the cable or cord binder tape or jacket. The tape shall be
printed to show the following at intervals not greater than 1 foot: Name and
location of manufacture; year of manufacture; specification number (MIL-C-24643);
and progressive serial number. The serial number is not necessarily a fOOtage
marker. A serial number shall not be repeated by a manufacture in any one year for
any one type and size of cable or cord.

●
3.4.15.1 ~- The use of marker threads in lieu of the
manufacturer’s identification tape, as specified in 3.4.14, in small cables or cords
shall have the written approval of NAVSEA. If approved, marker threads shall be in
accordance with those assigned by Underwriter’s Laboratory (UL) Incorporated to
indicate the manufacture of the cable or

27
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MIL-C-24643A

cord. When UL marker threads are used, yearly marker threads shall also be used to
indicate the year of manufacture, as follows:

Background Color of
m gr base co 1or

1988 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ......White Slate

1989 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ....White Green
1990 .......................White Brown
1991 .......................White Black

1992 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ....Blue Black

1993 .......................Orange Slate
1994 .......................Orange Green
1995 .......................Orange Brown
1996 .......................Orange Black
1997 .......................Orange Pink
199B .......................Orange Yellow
1999 .......................Orange Slate

3.4.16 Sable or surface markinq. Cable or cord jacket surface marking is

required, unless otherwise specified (see 3.1) . lnk marking shall be used. The
legend shall be printed in contrasting color: preferably white ink on black or dark
background or black ink on white or light background. When indented or embossed
marking is specified by the specification sheet, the depth shall not be greater than
0.020 inch. The legend shall consist of the manufacturer’s name, the cable or cord
type and size designation, when applicable, the part number, year of manufacture and
jacket type. The legend shall be repeated at intervals not exceeding 1 foot and the
year of manufacture need not be in line with the balance of the legend. For cable
constructions on which armor is to be applied, the unarmored or armored cable
designations may be applied on the cable jacket.

The character type may be either block or italic and shall have a minimum height in
accordance with the diameter over which it is applied as follows:

Diameter range Height of character

(inch)

o.125to o.200 ...................... 0.047

.200 to .285 ...................... .063
.285 to .350 ...................... .078
.350to .500 ... .. . .. .. ... ... .. .. .. .094
.500 and larger .................... .125

Jacket material names shall be abbreviated as follows:

Crosslinked polyolefin XLPOLYO

Silicone rubber SILRBR

For example: “Manufacturer’s name - LS3SWU 19 M24643/36-05UN 1991

XLPOLYO

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.,

MIL-C-24643A

3.5 E~ . Electrical properties of the completed cable or

cord shall be as specified by the specification sheet.

3.6 Phvsti =oD”rtieiz. Physical properties of the completed cable or cord

and cable or cord components shall be as specified by the specification sheet.

3.7 ~e~a ir of the cable or cord iackec. Minor repair of the cable or cord
jacket shall be permitted. The materials and techniques used shall be such that the
finished cable or cord complies with all of the requirements of this specification.

3.7.1 ctor SD-. Conductor splices in finished cable or cord, shall

be removed prior to preparation for shipment.

3.8 Workma- . Cable and cords shall be a uniform and consistent product
and shall be delivered free of defects and surface contamination which will
adversely affect the serviceability of the product.

4. ~

4.1 tv of Unless otherwise specified in the contract

or purchase order, the contractor is responsible for the performance of all
inspection requirements (examinations and tests) as specified herein. Except as
otherwise specified in the contract or purchase order, the contractor may use his
own or any other facilities suitable for the performance of the inspection
requirements specified herein, unless disapproved by the Government. The Government
reserves the right to perform any of the inspections set forth in the specification
where such inspections are deemed necessary to assure supplies and services conform
to prescribed requirements.

4.1.1 tv for co~ . All items shall meet all requirements

of sections 3 and 5. The inspection set forth in this specification shall become a
part df the contractor’s overall inspection system or quality program. The absence
of any inspection requirements in the specification shall not relieve the contractor
of the responsibility of ensuring that all products or supplies submitted to the
Government for acceptance comply with all requirements of the contract. Sampling
inspection, as part of manufacturing operations, is an acceptable practice to
ascertain conformance to requirements, however, this does not authorize submission
of known defective material, either indicated or actual, nor does it commit the
government to accept defective material.

4.2 The examination and testing of all cable

and cord covered by this specification shall be classified as follows:
(a) Qualification inspection (see 4.3).
(b) Quality conformance inspection (see 4.4).

4.3 Qualification inspection shall consist of the

examination and test specified in tables XII and XIV and in accordance with the
applicable specification sheet.

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MIL-C-24643A

TABLE XII. (see 6.2)

Examination or Test Requirement para. Test method

para
Cable aging (260”C) Specification Sht. 4.7.6
Cable aging & compatibility Specification Sht. 4,7.7
(125”C)
Acid gas equivalent Specification Sht. 4.7.25
Halogen content Specification Sht. 4.7.26
Flame propagation Specification Sht. 4.7.14
Immersion Specification Sht. 4.7.28
Smoke index Specification Sht. 4.7.27
Toxicity index Specification Sht. 4.7.29
Durometer Specification Sht. 4.7.13
Weathering Specification Sht. 4.7.30
Abrasion resistance Specification Sht. 4.7.1
Gas Flame (3 hour) Specification Sht. 4.7.15
Accelerated service Specification Sht. 4.7.2
Cold working (-20° ) Specification Sht. 4.7.11
Specific gravity Specification Sht. 4.7.21

,,
●
4.3.1 malticat ion sDecimenf2. A manufacturer seeking qualified products
listing (QPL) shall manufacture and be responsible for testing a cable or cord type
and si~e required for group qualification in accordance with table XIII. When a
manufacturer desires qualification of an individual type, size or group, the
selection of test specimens and scope of qualification shall be subject to review by
NAVSEA . For slash sheets (see 3.1) having more than one type of insulation
compound, each insulation type will require qualification by NAVSEA. A sufficient
length of any test specimen shall be manufactured at one time. Qualification will
apply for armored, unarmored and unarmored with overall shielded cables.

4.3.1.1 Authorized testing of qualification samples outlined in Table XIII or

testing of selected samples to incorporate alternate materials in the originally
approved Details of Construction Sheets and approval of low smoke electrical cables
based on satisfactory test results for the representative samples shall not in any
way be construed as meaning that only the.type/size variation of the representative
sample(s) has to meet the specification requirements. All types/sizes/variations
comprising the group(s) represented by the test sample(s) must meet all
specification requirements.

4.3.2 In order to maintain qualification, each

cable manufacturer shall annually perfom the following tests in accordance with the
applicable tests paragraph, (see TABLE XII) , on all materials for which a
requirement is specified:

● Halogen content
9 Toxicity Index
● Acid Gas
● Smoke Index
b Immersion

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MIL-C-24643A

TABLE XIII. .

Qualificati temt ●unplem

Additional All te~te
cable types ●pecified m the
Group and aizen for applicable Slaah sheete
no flame apeclflcatlon Type comprising
propagation mhoet type and 1/ thi- group
@qrimlng the group
test only ●ize
1 LSDHOF -3 LSTHOF- 9 kll ●izes 03 and smaller 3
of LSSHOF, IJ3DHOF,
MTHOF. LSFHOF

2 LSTSOF-150 U1 sizes 133 and greater 3&ll

>f LSSHOF, LSDHOF,
LSTS30F, IAWT60F, plue
3sSF
3 LS2SJ-22 M~U-23 ill zizeo of LSHDU, 5,6,9,10,
x.-s
PBT14U-s LSTPNW-11/2 J3KDY, XSMRI, Ix3PBTY4’U, 29,34,43.52
J3FlS, LSMU, M2SJ, LS3SJ,
AS4SJ & IJ3TPNW
4 LSDCOP- 1 LST3’OP-10 Ql sizes of LSMMOP, 2,7,8,12
JsTTOP, u3DcOP, LSTCOP &
SU310F

5 LSDSGU- 3 LSMSCU-7 Lll ●izes of L5MSC!U, 15,16,17,

LslTsu-11/2 LST~-4 or JSTCJU, L9Tm, LHTSU, 10,20,21,23
LSTCJU- 4 MG 7 and ●rmller of
ISDSQU, LSTSGU, LSFSCU &
ls7sm
6 LSDSGU- 50 Lll eizee greater than 7 L4,15,16,
!fLSSSGU, LSDSGU, 17,19,22

I STSGD, LSFSGU,
B5KVTSW
LS6SCU &

7 JSTCTX-1 or .11 ●izem of LSTCTX, 24.25,26

==---+
STCKX-1, STCKX -7 SITCKX , MTCJX, LSPI,
I
SIDPS -3 SDPS, LSTPS & L5FPS
a Jm-I’Rs-2 11 ●izes of LS’fTRS
9 SoNW- 3 u Sizes of LSDNW, ka,49,50,
aa’nf- 7 Mm, Lslww, Isa?w, il,54,55
Ls42n4-a& LS8NW-6
10 &2CS-6 S1S50MU-16 ml sizes of 1.411ssomu, 1,27,20,31,35
&3u- 3 S2SU-10 LS2AU, LS3SU, =3U, 37,39,
S2SV- 3 LS1S75MU, LSISHU, LSISAU, 10,41,42,
LS3SF, IA2U, 3.S2CS, 14,4s,58
IAlsu. LS2SV & ImKOs
Slsw- 2 S2SWAV-10 All size. of LS2SWAU, 10,32,33,
SEQ.! LSISUU, U33SWU, LSE04, 16,30,46,
LS2WAU, LS1S?4WU, LSSRW, 7,53,56,57
bSDRW, LSTRW, LS29WL,
LS2UW & LS29W
es all sizes i d variations of the cable type; unless ! ecifically
specified in the table

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MIL-C-24643A

● 4.3.3 Dectlon s.3istem. The contractor shall provide and maintain an

inspection system acceptable to the Government for supplies and services covered by
this specification. The inspection system shall be in accordance with the ordering
documents (see 6.2.2) .

●
4.4 Qualitv conformance insDecticn. Quality conformance inspection shall be
performed on all completed cable or cord in accordance with the procedure specified
herein . This inspection shall consist of basic electrical test plus groups A, B, C
and D examination and tests specified in table XIV and in accordance with the
specification sheets.

TABLE XIV. ~alitv confo~ance lnsDectlnn. (see 6.2)

bmimtion or test Requirement paragraph Teat method paragraph

I P-AC ●1* ctxical:
Conductor, reaiotarme specification ●heet 4.8.4
Voltage withotand Specification ●heet 4.8.8
Inoulatien remi.tanee Specification ●heet 4.8.5
Conductor and Aield Specification ●heet 4.8.10
continuity
Jacket flaws Specification ●heet 4.8.9
QYOUD A:
Visual and dimensional 3.3,3 .4,3.5,3.6,3.7 & 4.6
specification ●heet
Capacitance Specification sheet 4.0.2
Characteraatic impedance Specification ●heet 4.8.3
Watertxghtnemm Specification ●heet 4.7.24
Hydrostatic (open end) Specification cheet 4.7.17
Crack R.mistanee Specifzcat>on sheet 4.7.33
QrOUD BL
Cold bending cord Specification ●h-et 4.7.10
Cold banding cable Specification sheet 4.7.9
CroOS link proof teet Specification ●heet 4.7.34
Drip Specification ●heet 4.7.12
Nimting endurance Specification ●heet 4.7.23
Tsar strength Specification ●heet 4.7.22
Phy@ical= (unaged) Specification ●heet 4.7.24
Attmauatimn Spocifieatimn ●h--t 4.8.1
-m Flame (1 hour) Specification ●heet 4.7.15
Bending endurance Specification mhemt 4.7.4
Breaking strength Specification mheet 4.7.5
Twioting endurance Specification ●heet 4.7.23
m-n c:
Phy-ical- (aged) Specification ●heet 4.7.20
Permanence of printing Specification ●heet 4.7.18
(conductor insulation)
Permanence of printing Sp_cifieatimn ●hoot 4.7.19
(jacket).
AnnOr specification ●h-et 4.7.3
Heat distortion Specification ●heet 4.7.16
Cable fill remw+=ab”ality Specification ●heet 4.7.8

shrinkage specification ●heet 4.7.32

Mutual inductance specification ●h-t 4.8.6
Surface tran=fer Specification ●heet 4.8.11
iqedance
Pulee response time specification ●heet 4.8.7
Teneile 6 Elongat~on Specifxcat>on ●heet 4.7.31
Y-D D’
Flame Specification ●heet 4.7.14

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MIL-C-24643A

●
4.4.1 lot . An inspection lot shall consist of the total number of
units of product of any one type, size and construction manufactured under
essentially the same conditions.

●
4.4.2 ~i3SiC electrical tests . Basic electrical tests shall be in accordance
with the applicable specification sheet and shall be performed on each length of
completed cable or cord. For electrical test purposes, length of completed cable
shall be as defined in para 6.6.1.1. If in preparation for final shipment,
manufactured lengths, following electrical testing as specified in 6.6.1.1, are Cut
to specified ordering lengths, basic electrical tests consisting of conductor and
shield continuity and shorts shall be performed.

● 4.4.3 Sa mDl inu DrOCedUr~. The required number of samples for groups A, B, C and
D examination and tests shall be selected at random from the inspection lot.
Nonconforming starting and finishing ends of cable or cord shall be removed by the
manufacturer prior to selecting samples.

4.4.3.1 Samples for group A

examination and test shall be selected from each lot in accordance with Table XV.

●
TABLE XV. -inu for urouD A examination and tests ~

Units of product Number of

in lot samples
1 1
2 thru 10 2
11 thru 30 3
31 thru 90 7
91 thru 210 15
211 and over 25

4s4.3.2 lina for aroun B tesw. Samples for group B tests shall be selected
from each lot in accordance with table XVI.

TABLE XVI.

I Units of product I

I in lot
6 and under
I Number of samples
1

II
9 thru 30 2
31 thru 90 3
91 thru 210 4
211 and over I 5

4.4.3.3 SamDlina for arouD C tes.Ui- Samples for group C tests shall be selected
in accordance with table XVII.

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MIL-C-24643A

TABLE XVII. S8 m VI inu for crroun c te~.

Two month’s production

(units of product) Number of samples
8 and under 1
9 thru 30 2
31 thru 90 3
91 thru 210 4
211 and over 5

4.4.3.4 Sa mDlina for ~rouD D tesu. Samples for group D test shall be selected
by testing the first production run of each type and size of cable and once for each
75,000 feet there after.

4.4.3.5 SamDlina. accent reiect criteria. Material found unacceptable shall be

resubmitted for reinspection only after all materials are re-examined or retested
and all defective materials are removed or defects corrected. Material resubmitted
shall be verified 100% for the failing characteristic. Material found acceptable
during re-screening inspection/testing can be re-identified and released as a
separate lot.

4.4.4 GrOuD A examina~. Group A examination and tests as required

by the specification sheet shall be performed on samples selected in accordance with
4.4.3.1.

4.4.5 GrouD B tesuj.. Group B tests as required by the specification sheet shall
be performed on samples selected in accordance with 4.4.3.2.

4.4.6 grouD c tests. Group C tests as required by the specification sheet shall
be performed on specimens taken from samples selected in accordance with 4.4.3.3.

4-4-7 ~. Group D tests as required by the specification sheet shall

be performed on specimens taken from samples selected in accordance with 4.4.3.4.

* 4.5 Test cond itions . Unless otherwise specified (see 3.1), the examination and
tests specified in tables XII and XIV shall be made at standard ambient conditions
as follows:

(a) Temperature: 23 t 20”C.

(b) Humidity: 50 f 40% RH

4.6 Cables shall be visually examined to

verify that the materials, design, construction, physical dimensions, marking and
workmanship are as specified in 3.3, 3.4, 3.!5, 3.6, 3.7 and the specifications
sheets . Concentricity, wall thickness and dimensional examinations shall be made as
specified in 4.6.1 and 4.6.2.
.,
4.6.1 Conrentrlcltv and wa 11 thickness. The concentricity of the finished wire
and the finished cable jacket shall be determined in accordance with 4.6.1.1, as
applicable . Wall thickness measurements shall be made on cross sections of the
finished wire or cable jacket under suitable magnification. The wall thickness
shall be the shortest distance between the outer rim of the finished wire
insulation or cable jacket and the outer rim of the underlying conductor or shield
strand.

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MIL-C-24643A

4.6.1.1 ished wire le The concentricity of the finished wire

and cable jacket shall be determined by first locating and recording the minimum
wall thickness measured on a cross section of the finished wire and cable jacket.
From this point on the outer rim of the finished wire and cable jacket (at which the
minimum wall thickness was measured) , three more reference points (90 degrees apart)
on the outside rim of the finished wire and cable jacket shall be established. At
each of these three reference points, the nearest member of the conductor shall be
selected, and the minimum wall thickness be measured. The average of the four
readings shall be the average wall thickness. The percent concentricity shall be
defined 100 times the ratio of the minimum wall thickness to the average wall
thickness.

4.6.2 Rime~ - Measurements shall be made on not less than a 12 inch length
of cable taken from the end of the sample unit. Inner components shall be made
accessible by stripping-and removing the outer components so as not to nick, cut,
cold work or otherwise damage the component to be measured. Four points fOr
measurement shall be located 3 to 4 inches apart along the finished wire specimen or
finished cable specimen lengths, as applicable. Measurements shall be made at each
point at two perpendicular planes or as required to assure the minimum and maximum
reading is attained at each point. A total of eight (8) measurements shall be
performed each specimen. The minimum, maximum and average value shall be recorded,
as applicable. Measurements shall be made with a micrometer, caliper or equal. A
PI-tape may be used for measurements of diameters greater than 0.250 inches.

4.6.3 (see 6.2.2.3) Before individual strands are

assembled into a conductor, they shall be tested for coating. When applicable,
tensile strength and elongation test procedures shall be in accordance with the
applicable ASTM standard reference in 3.3.1.

Lot sizes and number of specimens per lot shall be as follows:

Diameter of individual Number of test

(ia hot S* ~

2500 pounds or less 2

0.003 to .013
Each additional 2500 1
pounds or fraction thereof

5000 pounds or less 2

0.014 to .040
Each additional 5000 1
pounds or fraction thereof

10,000 pounds or less 2

0.041 to .129
Each additional 10,000 1
pounds or fraction thereof

4.7 Test mettids (nhv~ .

4.7.1 resist-. Abrasion resistance of insulation coverings and

cable jackets shall be determined as specified in 4.7.1.1 through 4.7.1.4.

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MIL-C-24643A

4.7.1.1 &eci meu. Specimens shall be as follows:

(a) ulatlon. Each specimen shall consist of a single insulated conductor

(including insulation covering, if any) of not less than 22 inches in
length. Specimens shall be removed from completed cable as follows:

(1) Cables containing 4 or fewer conductors - one conductor shall

be removed from each insulated conductor.
(2) Cables containing more than 4 but fewer than 21 different
insulated conductors (a total of 4 specimens) .
(3) Cables containing 21 or more conductors - the number of
specimens removed shall be equal to the square root (rounded
to the nearest whole number) or the total number of
conductors. Each specimen shall be removed from a different
insulated conductor.

(b) Cable Iacke~. One cable jacket test specimen shall be prepared by
extruding material onto a 16 AWG (19/29) conductor. The material shall be
manufactured using process conditions as close as possible to those used to
produce the overall cable jacket and shall have an overall cable diameter
of 0.119 + 0.001, - 0.000 inch.

4.7.1.2 S5 . Apparatus shall include the following:

(a) Abrading machine - A cylinder, which incorporates 2 abrading

elements on its surface, which is motor driven to rotate about a
horizontal axis at 17 plus 3, minus 2 revolutions per minute (rpm)
and over which the specimen is draped, as shown in figures 2 and 3
and as described below:

(1) Each abrading element shall consist of a 5/16 inch square,

high speed tool bit (Cleveland Twist Drill Company number
855 or equivalent ) which has been ground on two adjacent,
longitudinal sides to produce a single, sharp 90 degree
longitudinal edge free of nicks. A medium grade grinding
wheel (Norton Company number 39C6018VK or equivalent) shall
be used for this grinding. Abrading elements shall be
reground as required; in no case shall an abrading element
be used in excess of 5 hours without regrinding. Whenever
the perpendicular distance between either pair of opposite
longitudinal sides of an abrading element become less than
0.3085 inch (as by repeated regrinding) then that abrading
element shall be discarded and replaced.
(2) The cylinder shall be 6+/1/8 inches in diameter and shall be
rigidly fabricated from metal.
(3) Each of the 2 abrading elements shall be maintained in
electrical contact with the metal cylinder by securing each
in a notch cut into the cylinder surface, parallel to the
cylinder axis; the 2 notches required shall be spaced lBO t
2 degrees apart around the circumference of the cylinder.
These notches shall be cut such that the sharpened 90 degree
longitudinal edge of each element shall be facing outward
from the cylinder surface and such that the midpoint of a
straight line drawn between the midpoint of the 2
longitudinal edges adjacent to the sharpened edge is
tangential + or - 0.003 inch to the cylinder surface.

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MIL-C-24643A

(4) An automatic counter shall be provided to totalize the number

of times the test specimen is scraped by the abrading
elements during the test.
(5) A 1 pound +/0.5 ounce weight shall be provided for applying
tension to the specimen.

(b) Short circuit monitor - A voltage source of not less than 12 V (either
direct current (DC) or root mean square (RMS) alternating current (AC))
which can be applied between the specimen conductor and both abrading
elements of the abrading machine as shown in figure 2. (The connection to
the abrasion elements may be provided by a wiping contact on the cylinder.)
A means (such as an electrical relay) shall be provided whereby an
electrical connection between either abrading element and the specimen
conductor shall automatically stop the rotation of the cylinder on the
abrading machine (as by removing motor power) .

4.7.1.3 kJxuaKe. Specimens shall be wiped with a clean dry cloth to remove
any lubricant or dirt. Each specimen shall then be tested (either simultaneously or
at one time) as follows. Each specimen shall be hung circumferentially over the
cylinder of the abrading machine such that each specimen shall form an arc of not
less than 170 degrees around the cylinder for the remainder of the test. One end of
each specimen shall then be secured to a fixed surface. The abrading machine weight
shall be attached to the opposite specimen end such that both this specimen end and
the weight be freely suspended. The automatic counter shall be set initially to
zero, the short circuit monitor shall be applied between both abrading elements on
the abrading machine and the conductor of each specimen. The cylinder motor shall
then be turned on, allowing the cylinder to rotate beneath each specimen, from
secured end to weighted end.

4.7-~.4 ~. Specimen failure shall be construed if electrical contact

occurs between either abrading element and any specimen conductor (as evidenced by
cessation of cylinder rotation) prior to completing the specified number of abrasive
scrapes (see 3.1) .

4.7.2 The ability of completed cable and cord to withstand

electrical current overload shall be determined.

4.7.2.1 . The specimen shall consist of a 15 foot i 2 inch length of

completed cable or cord.

4.7.2.2 Apparatus shall include the following and separate

voltage and current sources shall be used:

(a) Voltage source - A 3 phase, 60 hertz (Hz) adjustable voltage source,

as shown in figure 4, for providing a separate, single phase test
voltage through a normal blow fuse or overload relay to each
specimen conductor. This voltage source shall be in accordance with
the following:

(1) Specimens rated for 1 kilovolt (kV) - The test voltage shall be
450 * 10 Vrms between conductors. Fuses or overload relays shall
each have a maximum rating of 1 ampere (A) .

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MIL-C-24643A

(2) Specimens rated for 5 kv - The test voltage shall be 4160 t 100
Vrms between conductors. Fuses or overload relays shall each
have a maximum rating of 1/4 A. The secondary winding voltage
rating of any constituent voltage step up transformers shall be
not less than the required test voltage. Each phase of the
voltage source shall supply the specimen with a current that
shall be not less than twice the fuse or overload relay rating.

(b) Current source - A 3 phase, 60 Hz adjustable voltage source shall be used

with three current transformers, as shown in figure 4, to provide three
adjustable, single phase test currents as specified. The secondary winding
of each current transformer shall be isolated from electrical ground. Bus
bar conducting test current without generating significant amounts of heat
shall be used to convey the test currents from the current transformers to
the specimen conductors.

(c) Electrical metering - Instrumentation shall be provided, as shown on f19Ure

4, such that the test voltage and current applied to each specimen conductor
shall be measured with a error of not more the + or - 2 percent.
(d) Heating chamber - A heating chamber shall be provided for supporting the
requirements as specified in 4.7.2.3. This chamber shall have interior
finishes and dimensions which discourages the reflection of radiant heat
(generated by the test currents) onto the specimen.

(e) Thermocouple devices - Four thermocouples and an associated temperature

indicating device, shall be provided for the use and temperatures as
specified in 4.7.2.3. Temperatures shall be measured with an error of not
more than + or - 1° C.

4.7.2.3 Ewa2Que. The specimen shall be formed into a single, horizontal looP
within the heating chamber (to permit free circulation of convection air currents) .
Air temperature within the chamber shall be maintained at 30 i 2° C during the test
(except in the immediate vicinity of the specimen) and means shall be provided to
prevent forced air drafts from directly striking the specimen. The four
thermocouples shall be placed on the top of the specimen, near its midpoint, and in
firm contact with its jacket. These thermocouples shall be placed longitudinally
along the specimen jacket at 2 i 1/16 inch intervals. on unarmored specimens, firm
jacket contact can be assured by the use of a length of string with a weight on each
end as this can be hung over the jacket after forming a single wrapping around the
jacket and over the thermocouple bead. On armored specimens, firm jacket contact
can be assured by opening a small space between the jacket and an armor carrier (as
with an ice pick) , and inserting the thermocouple bead within this space, afterwards
pulling the armor carrier longitudinally to press the thermocouple bead tightly
against the jacket. Under no circumstances shall the jacket be cut or shall tapes
be used to hold the thermocouple beads since these may cause premature specimen
failure due to elevated jacket temperatures (see 4.7.2.4) . TWO thermocouples shall
be used to measure ambient temperature within the chamber. The test voltages and
currents shall be simultaneously applied to the specimen as shown in figure 4. If
the specimen is armored, an additional test voltage shall be applied by grounding
the armor, as
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MIL-C-24643A

shown in figure 4. This shall effectively apply an additional voltage which is

approximately equal to the test voltage divided by the square root of 3 between the
armor and the specimen conductors.
test currents The
and voltages shall remain
continuously applied to the specimen for a period of not less than 7 hours, unless
specimen failure (see 4.7.2.4) occurs prior to the end of this period, then the test
shall be terminated prematurely. The following notes shall apply for specimens with
more than 3 conductors:

(a) Unarmored 4 conductor specimens - The green insulated conductor

shall be isolated from all test voltages and currents.
(b) Armored 4 conductor specimens - The green insulated conductor shall
be electrically connected to the armor during the test.
(c) 6 conductor specimens (armored or unarmored) - The radially opposed
conductors within the core of the specimen shall be electrically
connected, at both specimen ends, to effectively form three
conductors during the test.

4.7.2.4 9bspr vatio~. AIIy of the following shall constitute specimen failure,
if occurring prior to the expiration of the 7 hour minimum test period:

(a) The blowing of any fuse or the tripping of any overload relay
(b) Any thermocouple indication of the jacket temperature in excess of 135° C.
(c) Jacket sagging on an unarmored specimen.
(d) Jacket exudation through the armor of an armored specimen. (Jacket
bulging, without actual flow or cutting, is not considered to be
exudation.)

● 4.7.3 ALIDQL. Cable armor performance shall be determined as specified in

4.7.3.1 through 4.7.3.4.

4.7.3.1 Each specimen shall consist of a single piece of armor wire,

of not less than 6 inches in length, which has been removed from a spool of armor
wire prior to cable armoring. Each specimen shall be removed from a different
spool . Ten specimens shall be required.

4.7.3.2 tiecial amymatus. Apparatus shall include the following:

(a) Mandre 1 - A 1/4 i 1/64 inch diameter steel cylinder, of length and
construction for the springiness test as specified in 4.7.3.3.
(b) Scale - A spring or other type scale, the measurement error of which shall
not exceed + or - 5 percent for use in the springiness and toughness tests
specified in 4.7.3.3.
(c) Special vise - A special vise, with 2 parallel edges of
0.030 i 0.001 inch radius between which a specimen may be clamped to
perform the toughness test as specified in 4,7.3.3.

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MIL-C-24643A

4.7.3.3 Wx@Uzfi. The two following test shall be performed using not fewer
than five specimens. The specimen shall be tested one at a time for each test. The
same specimen shall not be used for more than one test.

(a) Springiness - One specimen shall be selected and secured by one end to the
mandrel such that it is bath in contact with the curved surface of the
mandrel and perpendicular to the mandrel axis. The opposite end of the
specimen shall be attached to the scale, the specimen shall be wrapped
circumferentially around the mandrel, by handling the scale only, for not
fewer than four complete turns, while maintaining a specimen tension of not
less than 100 nor more than 125 grams. Care should be taken to pull the
scale in such a direction that it accurately indicates the specimen
tension. The specimen shall then be released from the scale and allowed to
uncoi 1. Any specimen which is kinked at any place other than the
attachment points at either end shall be considered an invalid specimen,
the test shall be repeated using a different specimen. This test shall be
successfully repeated four more times (five times total) , using a different
specimen each time.

(b) Toughness - One specimen shall be selected and secured by one end between
the rounded, horizontal and parallel vise edges, such that not less than 2
inches of the specimen extends vertically above the vise. The scale shall
then be attached to the free end of the specimen and a specimen tension of
100* 10 grams shall be established by handling the scale only. The
specimen shall 90 +15, -O degrees alternately in both directions
be bent
perpendicular to the vise edges, while maintaining the specified vise
tension. Not fewer then ten 90 degree bends shall be made unless the
specimen breaks sooner. The bending rate shall not exceed fifty 90 degree
bends per minute. This test shall be repeated four (4) more times (five
times total), using different specimens each time.

4.7.3.4 SWservatti . Either of the following shall constitute specimen failure:

(a) Springiness - The o.d. of the coil formed by any of the specimens
around the mandrel, as measured at a middle portion of the
specimen, exceeds 3/8 inch.
(b) Toughness - -y specimen withstands fewer than ten 90 degree bends
without breaking.

4.7.4 The ability of completed cable and cord to withstand

repeated and reversing bending motion while subjected to a specified temperature
shall be determined.

4.7.4.1 The specimen shall consist of a 30 +6, -O inch length of

completed cable or cord. Specimen conductor ends shall be electrically
interconnected such that a single series electrical circuit is formed. The two end
conductors of this series circuit shall be connected as specified in 4.7.4.3.

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MIL-C-24643A

4.7.4.2 . Apparatus shall include the following:

(a) Flexing machine - A device for suspending the specimen vertically and
for automatically bending the upper portion of the specimen
alternately left and right by 90 +5, -O degrees from vertical over
rollers as shown in figure 5 and as further described below.

(1) The specimen shall be suspended and bent by means of a rigid,

motor driven arm, which initially shall be vertical, which shall
be horizontally pivoted about its lower end, and which shall
incorporate a clamp at its upper end for securing the upper end
of the specimen jacket. The distance between the upper end of
the specimen jacket and the nearest edge of this clamp shall be
not less than 1 inch. When its motor is turned on, the arm shall
move at the rate of not more than 14 nor less than 12 cycles per
minute, where a cycle is 180 +10, -O degrees of clockwise arm
travel plus 180 +10, -O degrees of counterclockwise arm travel
(360 +20, -O degrees total travel) . The specimen clamp shall be
positioned such that when the arm is vertical (straight UP), the
longitudinal axis of the specimen shall intersect the pivoting
axis . The lower edge of the clamp shall be 8 1/2 t 1/2 inches
above a horizontal line drawn across the tops of the upper
rollers.

(2) The specimen shall be bent over two solid steel cylindrical rollers
(the upper rollers as shown in figure 5) of the diameter
specified. Unless otherwise specified in the applicable
specification sheet: For cables over 1 inch in diameter, the
roller shall have a diameter four times the diameter of the
specimen; for cables with a diameter between 0.75 and 1 inch, the
roller diameter shall be 3.5 times the maximum diameter of the
cable; and for cables with a diameter less than 0.75 inch roller
size shall be three times the maximum diameter of the cable. Both
rollers shall have a smooth surface finish on their curving
surfaces, shall be pivoted about their axes and capable of free
rotation at all times. They shall be position such that their
axes are horizontal and parallel and share a common horizontal
centerline. The tops of the rollers shall be below the horizontal
centerline of the flexing machine arm pivoting axis by a distance
equal to one half of the maximum specified overall cable or cord
diameter + or - 10 percent. The rollers shall be located
equidistantly on opposite sides of the vertical centerline
passing through the flexing machine arm pivoting axis. They
shall be spaced apart such that their nearest edges are 1/8 i
1/32 inch from the specimen passing between them when the flexing
machine arm is vertical.

(3) Two cylindrical rollers (the lower rollers as shown on figure 5),
of not less than 3/8 inch diameter shall be provided to restrain
lateral motion of the specimen. Both rollers shall be pivoted
about their axes and capable of free rotation at all times. They
shall be positioned such that their axes are horizontal
centerline. The axes of these rollers shall be 7 t 1 inch
below
the axes of the rollers over which the specimen is bent (the
upper rollers as shown in figure 5) . The lower rollers shall be
located equidistantly on opposite sides of the vertical

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MIL-C-24643A

centerline passing through the flexing machine arm pivoting axis.

They shall be spaced apart such that their nearest edges are 1/8
i 1/32 inch from the specimen passing between them when the
flexing machine arm is vertical.
(4) A weight shall be provided for applying tension to the specimen.
This weight shall be attached tb the specimen by means of a
second clamp. The lower end of the specimen jacket shall be a
I distance of not less than 1 inch below the nearest edge of this
clamp. The weight shall be chosen such that the:

I Specimen tension produced by the clamp plus the weight in pounds = 10

(3.14159)d2 i (3.14159)d2 /2

Where: d . specified maximum overall cable or cord diameter, in inches.

The clamp and weight shall be attached such that the

specimen tension is applied vertically
downward along the specimen axis.

(5) Both the specimen clamp on the flexing machine arm and the
specimen clamp supporting the tensioning weight shall apply
radial compression to the specimen that neither the specimen nor
any of its internal components will slip in the clamping area
during the test.

(6) An automatic counter shall be provided to total the number of

bending cycles performed on the specimen during a test.
(7) The specimen shall not come into contact with any piece of
machinery at any time during the test, except for the uPPer and
lower rollers, the two specimen clamps and the circuit continuity
monitor.

(b) Circuit continuity monitor is a means for continuously monitoring the

electrical continuity of the series through connected specimen
conductors, which shall automatically stop the flexing machine arm
(as by removing motor pOWer) when a specimen conductor breaks.
(c) Test chambers are maintaining the specified temperature
chambers for
within + or - 2° C for accommodating the flexing machine with the
specimen attached and for supporting the requirements as specified
in 4.7.4.3. The chamber air temperature shall be measured in the
immediate vicinity of the upper roller of the flexing machine. The
chamber shall incorporate a viewing port ‘for observing the specimen
under test.

(d) Voltage withstand test apparatus is as specified in 4.8.8-2.

4.7.4.3 ~. The flexing machine shall be installed in the test chamber

and the specimen installed in the flexing machine as shown in figure 5. The circuit
continuity monitor shall be connected between the two end conductors of the single
series circuit within the specimen. The test chamber doors shall then be closed and
the air temperature within the chamber shall be brought to the

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MIL-C-24643A

specified value within + or - 2eC. After the air temperature within the chamber has
been maintained at this value for a period of not less than one hour, the automatic
counter shall be set at zero and the bending endurance test begun by turning on the
motor driven flexing machine arm. The specified number of bending cycles shall be
performed. At all times during the test, the air temperature within the chamber
shall be maintained as specified within + or - 2° C, and the test chamber doors shall
remain closed.

4.7.4.4 ervE&jQ-J. Either of the following shall constitute specimen failure,

except the specimen damage within 2 inches of the location where either specimen
clamp had been fastened shall not constitute specimen failure, but shall require a
complete retest using different specimen from the same length of cable or cord:

(a) Stoppage of the flexing machine arm caused by the circuit

continuity monitor (indicating conductor breakage) , prior to the
completion of the specified number of bending cycles.
(b) Rupture of the specimen jacket prior to the completion of the
number of specified bending cycles.

4-7.4.5 ~. If the specimen shows no failure, it shall be

allowed to return to room temperature and shall be subjected to the voltage
withstand test as specified in 4.8.8, using the specified voltages. Following this,
that portion of the specimen which had been repeatedly bent over the upper rollers
shall be dissected. Each of the constituent components visually inspected for
deterioration.

4.7.4.6 JWther vation.

o~=r Either of the following shall constitute specimen
failure, except the specimen damage within 2 inches of the location where either
specimen clamp had been fastened shali.not constitute specimen failure, but shall
require a complete retest using different specimen from the same length of cable or
cord:

(a) Specimen fails the voltage withstand test (see 4.8.8).

(b) Specimen upon dissection and inspection, exhibits visible distortion or
cracking of any specimen component, including strand breakage on any
conductor or exhibits any other visible deterioration of such a nature or
extent as to impair the performance of the cable or cord in service.

4.7.5 . This test shall determine the axial tension necessary

to break complete cable or cord.

4.7.5.1 The specimen shall consist of a piece of completed cable or

cord which shall have sufficient length for use in the test as specified in 4.7.5.3.
Additional specimens may be required in the event of invalid test results (see
4.7.5.3).

4.7.5.2 SD- ial a~atu~. Apparatus shall include a motor driven tensile
machine, for applying increasing axial tension to the specimen, which shall
automatically indicate within + or - 1 percent, the maximum axial tension
experienced by the specimen prior to rupture. This tensile machine shall
incorporate two parallel and opposing, rigid and smooth cylindrical mandrels,
between which the specimen can be secured, as specified in 4.7.5.3. The two tension
machine mandrels shall increase their separation at the uniform rate of 1 * 1/8 inch
per minute during the test by means of the tensile machine motor.

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MIL-C-24643A

4.7.5.3 ~. The ends of the specimen shall be attached to the opposing

tensile machine mandrels, such that each specimen end is tightly wrapped
circumferentially around its mandrel for not fewer than two complete revolutions and
then firmly secured at its extremity, to the mandrel. This is to assure that
neither specimen nor any internal components slip during the test. Care shall be
taken during specimen mounting to assure that the specimen shall be subjected only
to axial forceg and not lateral or torsional forces during the test. The specimen
shall be mounted such that it has free span of not less than 6 inches between its
nearest points of contact on the opposing mandrels at all times during the test.
I The test shall be initiated by starting the tensile machine motor, thereby
I increasing the mandrel separation and applying increasing tension to the specimen.
If specimen rupture occurs in a location other than in the free span between
mandrels, the test results shall be considered invalid and the test shall be
repeated using different specimen.

4.7.5.3 Specimen failure shall be construed if the maximum

recorded specimen tension is less than specified (see 3.1) .

4.7.6 Sable aaim (260Oc This test shall be to determine the ability of
armored cable with silicone rubber insulation and jacketing to withstand accelerated
heat aging.

4.7.6.1 SDeci men. The specimen shall consist of a 48 i 1 inch length of

completed cable or cord.

4.7.6.2 Special AnDaratUS. Apparatus shall include the following:

(a) A forced fresh air circulating oven shall be used for supporting
the requirements as specified in 4.7.6.3. The oven air
temperature shall be measured in the immediate vicinity of the
specimen.
(b) Tensile strength and elongation test apparatus shall be as
specified in 4.7.31

4.7.6.3 Wxeduxe. The specimen shall be bent at the approximate middle of its
length to form a symmetrical U shape, such that its inside diameter (id) shall be
six times the specified maximum overall cable diameter (see 3.1) + or - 1/4 inch.
The specimen shall be secured in this position using heat resistant twine and shall
be freely suspended vertically such that the specimen ends face downwards within the
oven. The air temperature within the oven shall be raised in a uniform manner from
room temperature to a temperature of 260 ‘/- 10° C, over a period of not more than
three nor less than two hours. The oven air temperature shall be maintained at 260
+/- 10° C for a period of not less than 24 hours and shall then be returned to room
temperature. Provision shall be made to catch, for later weighing, any material
which may fall away from the specimen ends during this test. Following the test,
the air within the oven shall be allowed to return to room temperature. The
specimen shall then be removed from the oven.
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MIL-C-24643A

4.7.6.4 . Any of the following shall constitute specimen failure:

(a) The falling away of any material in excess of 1 gram from the
specimen ends during the test.
(b) Jacket exudation through the armor of an armored cable. (jacket
bulging, without actual flow or cutting, is not”considered to
be exudation.)
(c) Jacket shrinkback in excess of 1/8 inch from either end of the
specimen.

4.7.6.5 ~. If the specimen shows no failure, its jacket shall

be subjected to the tensile and elongation tests as specified in 4.7.31.

4.7.6.6 Specimen failure shall be construed if either the

jacket tensile strength or elongation is less than that specified (see 3.1).

4.7.7 o~ . This test shall be to detect any

significant degradation due to component incompatibility or prolonged over heating
of completed cable of cord containing thermosetting or silicone rubber and glass
tape insulation. This test permits either of two methods (the current overload
method or the hot air oven method) to be used for heat aging.

4.7.7.1 m=lmm . Specimens for cable aging and compatibility test shall be as
follows:

(a) For the current overload method, the specimen shall consist of a
40 + or - 4 foot length of completed cable or cord.
(b) For the hot air method, two specimens of completed cable or cord
shall be required. Specimen number one shall have a length of 30
+ or - three feet. Specimen number two shall have a length of not less
than the sum of 12 inches plus 20 times the maximum specified
overall diameter of the cable or cord (see 3.1) . Both specimens shall be
removed from the same length of cable or cord.

4.7.7.2 Swrial Jwwiiuw. Apparatus shall include the following:

(a) The oven (required for either heat aging method) shall support
the requirements as specified in 4.7.7.3, as applicable. The
oven air temperature shall be measured in the immediate
vicinity of the specimen.
(b) The mandrel (required for either heat aging method) shall be
rigid, smooth cylinder or partial cylinder, with a continuous
curved surface of not less than 180 degrees, of suitable length
and construction for the specimen bending as specified in
4.7.7.5 The mandrel diameter shall be approximately 12 times
the specified maximum overall cable or cord diameter (see 3.1) .
(c) Voltage withstand test apparatus (required for either heat aging
method) shall be as specified in 4.8.8.3.
(d) Insulation resistance test apparatus (required for either heat
aging method) shall be specified in 4,8.5.3.
(e) Thermocouple device (required for the current overload method if
submethod 4.7.7.3(a) (1) is used) and an associated temperature
indicating device shall be provided for the use and
temperatures specified in 4.7.7.3(a) . Temperatures shall be
measured with an error of not more than + or - 1 ‘C.

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MIL-C-24643A

(f) Current source (rewired for current overload method only) shall
be an adjustable source of either dc or 60Hz single phase ac,
for maintaining specimen conductors at an elevated temperature
as specified in 4.7.7.3(a) . A means shall be provided for
measuring the current produced by this source with an error of
not more than + or - 5 percent.
(g) Resistance meter (required for the current overload method if
submethod 4.7.7.3(a) is used) shall be provided for measuring
the resistance of a single specimen conductor at room
temperature and at elevated temperatures, as specified in
4.7.7.3(a). The meter shall exhibit a measurement error of not
more than + or - 1 percent.

4.7.7.3 ~. Select and perform either of-the two heat aging methods, the
current overload method or the hot air method, specified in (a) or (b) herein
respectively. The oven air temperature (in both methods), conductor temperature and
current (in the current overload method only) shall be recorded at intervals of not
more than 15 minutes during the first hour after attaining the heat aging
temperature, at intervals of not more than 1 hour for the following 5 hours and not
less than twice daily thereafter for the duration of the heat aging. The interval
between the consecutive temperature recordings shall not exceeci 17 hours at any time
during heat aging.

(A) Prior to heat aging, the current overload method specimen shall
be subjected to the insulation resistance and voltage withstand
test in accordance with 4.8.5 and 4.8.8, respectively. The
voltage withstand test shall use the specified voltages (see
3.1). Following these, specimen conductor ends shall be
electrically interconnected such that a single series
electrical circuit is formed in the conductors. Provision shall
then be made to measure specimen conductor temperature, using
either of the following submethods.

(1) The smallest practicable “VV shaped cut shall be made along
the specimen at a point approximately midway between the
specimen ends, the thermocouple shall be placed beneath the
resulting triangular tab. The thermocouple shall be
positioned such that it is in firm contact with any single
specimen conductor layer. (For specimens with only a single
layer of conductors, any specimen conductor may be used.)
The thermocouple shall be used with its associated
temperature indicating device to measure specimen conductor
temperature during heat aging.

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MIL-C-24643A

(2) The resistance meter shall be connected to measure the

resistance between the ends of any single specimen
conductor in the innermost conductor layer. (For specimens
with only a single layer of conductors, any specimen
conductor may be used.) The meter leads shall be positioned
on the conductor extremities such that all conductor
interconnections are excluded from resistance measurements.
The conductor temperature shall then be determined by using
the following formula:

Conductor temperature, in 0 C = (234.5 + t) (R/r) - 234.5

Where: R = Measured conductor resistance, in ohms during

heat aging.
t . Measured room temperature, in 0 C, to which the
specimen is exposed prior to heat aging.
Temperature t shall be measured in the immediate
vicinity of the specimen; measurement accuracy
shall be within +/- 0.5 0 C.
r - Measured conductor resistance, in ohms, when the
specimen is exposed to room temperature t. t
shall be held constant, within +/- 0.5 0 C for a
period of not less than two hours prior to this
measurement .

The specimen shall next be placed into the oven such that a
length of not less than the sum of 12 inches plus 20 times
the maximum specified overall cable or cord diameter (see
3.1) remains straight and horizontal and such that the
remainder of the specimen is formed into the largest
practicable horizontal coil (to permit free circulation of
convection air currents) . The current source shall be
connected between the two end conductors of the single series
circuit within the specimen. The specimen shall then be
subjected to heat aging; the air temperature within the oven shall
be raised to 50 +/- 3 0 C and the current source
adjusted to produce a conductor temperature of 125 +/- 5 0 C.
These temperatures shall be maintained for a continuous
period of not less than 400 hours. The current source shall
not be shut off during heat aging, except for momentary shut
off for taking resistance measurements when submethod (a) (2)
herein is used, Following heat aging, the specimen shall be
allowed to cool throughout to room temperature. The conductor
temperature shall then be recorded. A recording which differs from
room temperature by more than 5 0 C shall be considered
to indicate failure of the conductor measurement means, If
any such failure should occur, the heat aging test shall be
considered to be invalid and shall be repeated using a
different specimen removed from the same cable or cord. (A
possible advance indication of such a failure and the need
to retest, may be the need to make prominent adjustments of
conductor current in order to maintain indicated conductor
temperature during heat aging.) Following heat aging, the

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MIL-C-24643A

specimen shall be subjected a second time to the insulation

resistance and voltage withstand tests as specified in 4.8.5
and 4.8.8, respectively. A sample, of length not less than 12
I inches plus 20 times the maximum specified overall cable or
cord diameter (see 3.1) , shall then be removed from that portion of
the specimen which had been kept straight during
the heat aging. This sample shall be subjected to the bending
procedure as specified in 4.7.7.5. A portion of the
remainder of the specimen shall be subjected to the cable
filler removability test as specified in 4.7.8.

(b) Prior to heat aging, hot air oven method specimen one shall be
subjected to the insulation resistance and voltage withstand
tests as specified in 4.8.5 and 4.8.8, respectively. The
voltage withstand test shall use the voltages specified (see
3.1). Both specimens shall then be placed within the oven,
specimen number one shall be formed into the largest practicable
horizontal coil within the oven and specimen number two shall be
positioned such that it is both straight and horizontal. Both
specimens shall be simultaneously subjected to heat aging. The
air temperature within the oven shall be raised to 125 +/- 3° C.
This temperature shall be maintained for a continuous period of
not less than 400 hours. Following heat aging both specimens
shall be allowed to cool to room temperature. Specimen one shall
then be subjected a second time to the insulation resistance
and voltage withstand tests as specified in 4.8.5 and 4.8.8,
respectively. A portion of specimen one shall next be subjected
to the cable filler removability test as specified in 4.7.8.
Specimen two shall be subjected to the bending procedure as
specified in 4.7.7.5.

4.7.7.4 Any of the following shall constitute specimen failure:

(a) The falling away of any material from either end of any specimen
during heat aging.
(b) Jacket sagging on any unarmored specimen.
(c) Jacket exudation through the armor of any armored specimen.
(Jacket bulging, without actual flow or cutting, is not
considered to be exudation.)
(d) Specimen (specimen one if the hot air oven method is used) fails
either of the insulation resistance tests (see 4.8.5) .
(e) Specimen (specimen one if the hot air oven method is used) fails
either of the voltage withstand tests {see 4.8.8)
(f) Specimen (specimen one if the hot air oven method is used) fails
the cable filler removability tests (see 4.7.8) .

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MIL-C-24643A

4 .7.7.5 ~. The mandrel shall be secured to a fixed surface, one

end of the specimen shall be secured such that it is both in contact with the curved
surface of the mandrel and perpendicular to the mandrel center of the curvature
axis. The opposite end of the specimen shall be bent circumferentially around the
curved mandrel surface through an arc of not less than 170 degrees. Bending shall
be accomplished at the rate of approximately 20 degrees per second. The specimen
shall then be secured to maintain its bent shape (as with a piece of twine,
stretched taut and tied between each end of the specimen) and shall be removed from
the mandrel. Not less than two thirds of the bent portion of the specimen shall
then be dissected, each of its constituent components shall be visually inspected
for deterioration.

4.7.7.6 Furt h er observat~. Specimen failure shall be construed if the

specimen, upon dissection and inspection, exhibits visible dete-rioration of such a
nature or extent as to impair the performance of the cable or cord in service.
Deterioration sufficient to constitute specimen failure shall include, but not
limited to, distortion or cracking of any constituent component, hardening of filler
material or any discoloration indicating material incompatibility.

●
4.7.8 This test shall determine whether or not
sealant materials can be readily removed from the constituent components of cable
and cord. This test shall not apply to sealant material used to fill voids between
either conductor strands or braid strands.

* 4.7.8.1 -ecim. The specimen shall be a 2 foot +/- 2 inch length of completed
cable or cord.

4.7.8.2 ~. Overall specimen components (such as armors, jackets,

overall binders or shall be removed from one end of the specimen for a
shields)
distance of not less than 10 inches, thereby exposing the cable core. Using fingers
only, sealant material shall then be removed from all exposed insulated conductors
or from all groupings of insulated conductors which have a common covering (such as
insulated conductor pairs or triads, which have an overall shield or binder) for a
distance of not less than 8 inches. Tools , cloths or solvents shall not be used to
assist with sealant removal. The common covering and sealant material shall then be
removed from not less than one grouping of insulated conductors, on specimens
incorporating such groupings, for distance of not less than 5 inches. Fingers only
shall then be used for sealant removal. If occasional particles of sealant material
remain on any constituent component of the cable core, then the removal of these
particles shall be attempted by means of light brushing with fingers or with a dry
cloth .

● 4.7.8.3 Qbser vati~. Any of the following shall constitute specimen failure:

(a) Sealant material is nonflexible.

(b) Sealant material which adheres to the finger or to any
component of the cable core. The adherence of occasional small
particles of sealant material to the cable core is acceptable
unless there are small particles which cannot be removed from
the core components by light brushing with fingers or a dry
cloth.
(c) Sealant material which leaves a residue on cable core components.
(d) Sealant material cannot be removed in less than 5 minutes.

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MIL-C-24643A

4.7.9 . This test shall determine the ability of completed

cable, which is not intended to be flexed during use, to withstand bending at
reduced temperature, such as might be encountered during shipboard construction or
repair.

I
I 4.7.9.1 @erimw. The specimen shall consist of a piece of completed cable
which shall have a length of not less than the sum of 12 inches plus 1.6 times the
specified mandrel diameter (see 3.1) .

4.7.9.2 ‘%ecial aDDaratus .. Apparatus shall include the following:

(a) Refrigeration chamber shall support the requirements as

specified in 4.7.9.3. The chamber air temperature shall be
measured in the immediate vicinity of the specimen.
(b) Mandrel shall be rigid, smooth cylinder or partial cylinder,
with a continuous, curved surface of not less than 180
I degrees, of suitable length and construction for the specimen
bending of 4,7.9.3. Unless otherwise specified (see 3.1) . the
mandrel diameter shall be 12 times the diameter of the cable. The
mandre 1 shall be provided with a clip for affixing one
specimen end (see 4.7.9.3) .

4.7.9.3 Procedu r~. The specimen shall be straightened. If it does not remain
straight of itself, it shall be held straight by securing it (as with twine to a
straight wooden bar) . The straightened specimen (including wooden bar if
applicable) shall be placed within the refrigeration chamber and subjected to an air
temperature of minus 20 +/- 2 0 C (unless otherwise specified, see 3.1) for a
continuous period of not less than 6 hours. Prior to any change of chamber
temperature, the specimen shall be removed from the chamber (following detachment
from the wooden bar, if applicable) and one specimen a end shall be inserted into
clip which has been affixed to (or adjacent to) the mandrel, such that the specimen
is both in contact with the curved surface of the mandrel and also perpendicular to
the mandrel center of curvature axis. The opposite end of the specimen shall then
be bent circumferentially around the curved mandrel surface through an arc of not
less than 170 degrees. This bending shall be accomplished at a rate of not less
than 20 degrees per second. The period of time between the removal from the
“refrigeration chamber and the completion of specimen bending shall be not greater
than 40 seconds. Care shall be taken to avoid heating the
specimen, as by excessive handling, during removal from the refrigeration chamber
and during bending. Following bending, the specimen shall be secured to maintains
its bent shape (as with a piece of twine stretch taut and tied between each end of
the specimen) and shall then be removed from the mandrel. Not less than two thirds
of the bent portion of the specimen shall then be dissected and each of its
constituent components visually inspected for deterioration.

4.7.9.4 Qbser v ation . Specimen failure shall be construed if the specimen either
during bending or upon dissection and inspection, exhibits distortion or cracking of
any specimen component, or exhibits any other visible deterioration of such a nature
or extent as to impair the performance of the cable in service.

4.7.1O ~. This test shall determine the ability of completed

cord to withstand bending at a reduced temperature, such as might be encountered
during shipboard construction or repair.

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MIL-C-24643A

4.7.10.1 SDecimW . The required specimens shall be as follows:

(a) The cord specimen shall consist of a completed cord which shall
have a length of not less than the sum of 12 inches plus 60
times the maximum specified overall cord diameter (see 3.1) .
(b) Insulated conductor specimens shall consist of not fewer than
two different insulated conductors removed from the completed
cord. Each insulated conductor shall have a length of not less
than the sum of 12 inches plus the sum of 30 times the maximum
specified overall insulated conductor diameter (see 3.1) .

4.7.10.2 fiecial ~ . Apparatus shall include the following:

(a) A refrigeration chamber for supporting the requirements as

specified in 4.7.10.3. The chamber air temperature shall be
measured in the immediate vicinity of the specimen.

(b) Two mandrels, as specified in (1) and (2), shall be provided

and shall be mounted within the test chamber such that the
axis of each is horizontal and each supports the requirements
as specified in 4.7.10.3. Provision shall be made whereby each
mandrel can be rotated about its axis at the rate specified in
4.7.10.3, by an operator located outside the chamber (as by
crank, the shaft of which passes through the chamber wall and
mandrel axes to which the mandrels are affixed, or by remotely
controlled and appropriately geared motor, which is located
within the chamber) and whereby each mandrel can be locked in
a desired rotational position.

(1) Cord mandrel shall be rigid, smooth cylinder and shall

have a diameter of not more than three times the
specified minimum overall cord diameter (see 3.1) . The
mandrel shall be of suitable length and construction for
the specimen wrapping as specified in 4.7.10.3.
(2) Insulated conductor mandrel shall be a rigid, smooth
cylinder and shall have a diameter of not more than that
of the specified nominal insulated conductor diameter
(see 3.1; and which shall be of suitable length and
construction for the specimen wrapping as specified in
4.7.10.3.

(c) A magnifying glass which shall provide a magnification of not

less than three diameters.
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MIL-C-24643A

4.7.10.3 W2QXW22. One end of the cord specimen shall be secured to the cumed
surface of the cord mandrel and one end of each insulated conductor specimen shall
be secured to the cunred surface of the insulated conductor mandrel, such that all
specimens are vertically suspended without obstruction and that free space exists on
each mandrel to accommodate the specimen wrapping to follow. A weight shall be
attached to the opposite end of each specimen such that the suspended portion of
each specimen shall remain vertical during wrapping. The refrigeration chamber
doors shall then be closed and the specimen be subjected to an air temperature of
minus 40 +/- 2 0 C for a period of not less than 20 hours. Prior to any change of
chamber temperature the mandrels shall be rotated from outside the chamber at a rate
of 2.5 +/0.5 r/rein, such that the specimens are wrapped around the mandrels for not
fewer than five closely spaced turns. The mandrels shall then be locked to maintain
the specimens in their wrapped position. The chamber doors shall be opened and the
specimen secured to the mandrels to prevent the loosening or unwrapping. The
mandrels, with specimens attached, shall then be removed from the chamber and the
entire wrapped portion of each specimen shall be examined using the magnifying
glass .

4.7.10.4 Obser va tion. Specimen failure shall be construed if the specimen, upon
examination, exhibits distortion or cracking of any specimen component or exhibits
any other visible deterioration of such a nature or extent to impair the performance
of the cord in service.

4.7.11 Cold wor~ 2 Q “ = . This test shall determine the ability of

completed cable, which is not intended to be flexed during use, to with stand a
traveling bend at a reduced temperature, such as might be encountered during
shipboard construction or repair.

4 .7.11.1 The specimen shall consist of a 20 +/- 1 foot length of

completed cable.

4.7.11.2 sDecial aDD~ . Apparatus shall include the following:

(a) A refrigeration chamber for supporting the requirements as

specified in 4.7.11.3. The chamber air temperature shall be
measured in the immediate vicinity of the specimen.
(b) Bending apparatus shall consist of two identical sheaves, as
shown on figures 6 and 7, which are attached to a fixed
surface such that they are pivoted about there axes and at all
times their axes are both horizontal and parallel, the
corresponding points on both sheave are located in the same
vertical plane, their bending surfaces are separated by not
more than four times the maximum specified cable diameter (see
3.1), and they support the requirements as specified in
4.7.11.3. Each sheave shall have a bending surface width of
not more than three times the maximum specified overall cable
diameter (see 3.1) and bending surface diameter of not more
than 13 nor less than 11 times the maximum specified overall
cable diameter (see 3.1) .
(c) Two pieces of rope or twine, each of which shall have a length
of not less than 25 feet and shall support the requirements as
specified in 4.7.11.3.

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MXL-C-24643A

4.7.11.3 M2!2@UX. One end of one piece of rope or twine shall be firmly
attached to either end of the specimen and one end of the eecond piece of rope or
twine shall be firmly attached to the opposite specimen end. Attachment may be
either with a cable grip or by directly tying the rope or twine to the specimen.
The specimen with the rope or twine attached, shall be placed within the
refrigeration chamber and shall be subjected to a temperature of minus 20 + 2° C for
a period of not less than 6 hours. Prior to any change of chamber temperature, the
specimen with rope or twine attached shall be removed from the chamber, one rope or
twine shall be wound through the bending apparatus into a S shape as shown in figure
6 and not more than 20 seconds after removing from the chamber. The specimen shall
be subjected to cold working as follows. The specimen shall be drawn completely
through the bending apparatus at a rate of 35 +1- 5 feet per minute by means of
pulling on the rope or twine which initially passes through the apparatus.
Immediately thereafter, the specimen shall be drawn completely through the bending
apparatus in the opposite direction, at the same rate, by means of pulling on the
opposite end of the rope or twine. At all times during cold working, both ropes or
twine shall be directed such that the bending surface of each sheave is in contact
with either the specimen or the rope or twine for an arc of not less than 170
degrees. Following cold working the specimen shall be dissected for a distance of
not less than 3 feet and each of the constituent components visually inspected for
deterioration.

4.7.11.4 Specimen failure shall be construed if the specimen,

either during cold working or upon dissection and inspection, exhibits distortion or
cracking of any specimen component or exhibits any other visible deterioration of
such a nature or extent as to impair the performance of the cable in service.

4.7.12 ~. !L%is test shall determine whether or not fillers will exude and
drip from the cable ends when cables containing these fillers are subjected to high
temperatures. Such filler dripping may produce deleterious effects, such as the
coating or bridging of underlying electrical contacts.

4.7.12.1 ~- The specimen shall consist of an 18 +/- 1/2 inch length of

completed cable.

4.7.12.2 SDecla aDnaratM. Apparatus shall include a heating chamber for

supporting “the requirements as specified in 4.7.12.3. The chamber air temperature
shall be measured in the immediate vicinity of the specimen.
4.7.12.3 ~. The specimen shall be straightened and shall be suspended
from one end within the heating chamber, such that the specimen hangs freely
downward. The temperature within the chamber shall then be raised to the specified
value (see 3.1) within 1° C. This chamber temperature shall be maintained for a
continuous period of not less than 18 hours. Provision shall be made to catch any
material which may fall away from the lower specimen end during this test.

4.7.12.4 Specimen failure shall be construed if any material falls

away from the lower specimen end during the test.

4.7.13 ~. This test shall be to determine whether or not

jacketing material exhibits sufficient hardness (see 4.7.13.4) for use in cable
construction.

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MIL-C-24643A

4.7.13.1 The specimen shall consist of a block of material of the

dimensions specified in ASIWl D 2240, which shall have been cured in effectively the
same manner as when used in cable manufacture.

4.7.13.2 @ecial Apparatus shall include a type A or D durometer, as

specified (see 3.1), which shall be in accordance with AS’iW D 2240.

4.7.13.3 JWUXIWX. The specimen shall be tested in accordance with ASTM D

2240.

4.7.13.4 ervatloa. Specimen failure shall be construed if the specimen

exhibits a durometer hardness other than that specified (see 3.1) .

4.7.14 flame ~. This test shall be to determine the relative ability

of grouped cable to resist the propagation of fire along its length.

* 4.7.14.1 . Each specimen shall consist of a piece of completqd cable of

not less than 8 feet in length. The total number of specimens required shall be as
specified in the vertical flame test as specified in IEEE 383. The specimens
mounted on the cable tray shall be conditioned at a minimum temperature of 18° C.

●
4 .7.14.2 Apparatus shall include all equipment specified in
the vertical tray flame test in accordance with IEEE 383 with the addition of the
following.

a. FlowMeters. A flowmeter shall be located in the

propane line and in the air line feeding the burner to
measure the flow rate of these gases during the test.
Measurements shall be accurate to within 3 %. A mass flow
controller with a output that can be recorded shall be
permitted for use.
b. Cable ties. Copper or steel wire not larger than 14 AWG.
c. Air. The air to the burner shall be compressed air, either
bottled or supplied through a compressed air system. The
air supplied shall be filtered, when necessary, to
eliminate contaminants that could effect the test results.
d. Propane. The propane gas supplied to the burner shall be
equivalent to propane HD-5 as specified in ANSI/AS’IM
D1835-1987 [11 or CAN/CSGB-3.14-M1988 (grade 1) [3]. It
shall have a heat equivalent of approximately 46.4 MJ/kg
(20 k Btu/lb) (85.0 MJ/m3 at 20° C, 10lkPa).

* 4.7.14-3 ~- The specimen shall be tested as specified in the vertical

tray flame test in accordance with IEEE 383 except as modified below;

a. The incoming air to the chamber shall be within the following limits:
Temperature 23° C +/- 20° C
Humidity 50% +/- 40% RH

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MIL-C-24643A

b. Air movement: The maximum air movement within the enclosure,

with only the intake and exhaust openings open, the exhaust
fan on, if applicable, and the burner off shall not exceed
1 m/s (3.3 ft/sec.), as measured by a vane-type anemometer
in the following areas;
1. At the floor level where the burner will be
positioned during the test.
2. 1.5 m (4.9 ft) above the enclosure floor where the
cable tray will be positioned during the test.
c. Wire ties. Each specimen shall be separately attached to
each rung of the cable tray.
d. Propane flow rate. 220 cm3/ s +/- 8 cm3/s when corrected to
standard pressure and temperature (20 ‘C, 101 kPa)
1. Theoretical heat output 20 kW (approx 70,000 Btu/hr)
2. Temperature 25° C +/- 5oC
e. Air flow rate to the burner shall be 1280 cm3/s +/- 80 CM3/S
when corrected to standard pressure and temperature (20 ‘C,
101 kPa)
1. Temperature of the air shall be 25 +/- 5° C.
2. Dew point of the air shall not be greater than 0° C.

●
4 .7.14.4 Observation. After burning has ceased, the cables or cords shall be
wiped clean and the longest charred or affected portion of the specimens measured
and recorded to the nearest 25 mm (1 in) . Cable damage shall be determined by
measuring the distance of charring or the affected portion above the horizontal line
from the lower edge of the burner face. The limit of charring shall be determined
by pressing against the cable or cord surface with a sharp object. Where the
surface of the cable changes from a resilient surface to a brittle or crumbling
surface the limit of charring has been.determined. Distortion of the outer surface
of the cable, such as blistering or melting immediately above the char shall be
included in the damage measurement. On cable constructions which do not have
charring, the limit for the affected portion shall be defined as “the point where
the overall diameter is visibly reduced or increased”. Specimen failure shall be
construed when any portion of any specimen burns to the top
of the tray, either during or after operation of the ribbon burner. The following
information (which does not constitute failure criteria) shall additionally be
reported to help expand a performance data base: Flame temperature, period of time
between burner shut off and cessation of flame on the specimen, overall distance of
specimen jacket damage above the burner, overall distance of specimen conductor
damage above the burner and a brief description of any dripping or flaming material
which falls from the specimen to the floor during the test.

4.7,15 ~. This test shall determine the ability of completed cable to

maintain electrical circuit integrity in the presence of flame.

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MXL-C-24643A

●
4.7.15.1 The specimen shall consist of a 48 +/- 6 inch length of
completed cable. The jacket and blocking materials shall be removed for a distance
of 3 inches on each end of the sample. Sufficient insulation shall be removed from
one end of each conductor for making electrical connections as follows:

(a) Specimens with one conductor shall be tested with single

phase voltage between conductor and armor with the armor
grounded. For unarmored cables, the specimen shall be covered
with an aluminum or copper braid shield providing no greater than 50%
coverage. The braid covering shall be attached to ground.
(b) Specimens with two conductors shall be tested using two phases
of the three phase source.
(c) Specimens with three conductors shall be tested with each
conductor connected to a separate phase.
(d) Specimens with four conductors shall have physically opposite
conductors and be connected together in pairs to form two
effective electrical circuits.
(e) Specimens with six conductors shall have physically opposite
conductors and be connected together in pairs to form three
effective electrical circuits.
(f) Specimens with seven or more conductors shall have conductors
connected together to form three effective electrical
conductors. Connections shall be made such that physically
adjacent conductors shall be members of different effective
electrical conductors to the maximum practicable extent and
such that the number of conductors constituting each effective
electrical conductor does not differ by more than one.

4.7.15.2 Apparatus shall include the following:

(a) A metered and adjustable source of natural gas or other

flammable gas and an adjustable source of air (see figures 8
and 9) , able to support the requirements as specified in
4.7.15.3 The gas and air support shall be made available as a
mixture through a single conduit.
(b) A ribbon burner, which accepts gas and air from the gas and air
supply via a single, 1/2 inch nominal pipe set verticality into
its underside, which thoroughly blends the gas and air within
an internal mixing chamber, which allows the blended gas and
air mixture to exit for burning via a multiplicity of holes
in its top which shall be fabricated in accordance with
figures Eland 9. The mixing chamber, fabricated from number 16
United States Standard Gage (USSG) steel, shall be
horizontally centered within the burner and shall be airtight
except for the specified holes on its two sides and through
the inside of the 1/2 inch nominal pipe. The burner exterior
shall be fabricated from number 14 USSG steel and shall be
airtight except for the specified holes on lts top and the
specified holes in the mixing chamber.

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MIL-C-24643A

(c) A three phase, 60 Hz voltage source, as shown in figure 11, shall

provide a separate, single phase test voltage through a normal
blow fuse or overload relay to each specimen conductor. This
voltage source shall be in accordance with the following:

(1) Specimens rated for 1 kV which incorporate conductors with

cross sections of less than 14,000 circular roils and all
specimens rated for less than 1 kV. The test voltage
shall be 120 +/- 5 Vrms between conductors. Fuses or
overload relays shall each have a maximum rating of 1 A.
(2) Specimens rated for 1 kV which incorporate conductors
cross sections of 14,000 circular roils or more, the
test voltage shall be 45o +/- 10 Vrms between conductors.
Fuses or overload relays shall each have a maximum rating
of 1 A.
(3) Specimens rated for 5 kV, the test voltage shall be 4160
+/- 100 Vrms between conductors. Fuses or overload relays
shall each have a maximum rating of 1/4 A.

The secondary winding voltage rating of any constituent

voltage step up transformer shall be not less then the
required test voltage. Each phase of the voltage source shall
have the capacity to supply the specimen with a current which
shall be not less than twice the fuse and overload relay
rating.

(d) A chamber enclosing the horizontally mounted burner and the

suspended specimen (see 4.7.15.3) . This enclosure shall
incorporate an exhaust fan at its top and shall incorporate
apertures for admitting air along its sides adjacent to its
base. The exhaust fan shall be operated to produce no more
suction than is necessary to carry off smoke and gases. The
enclosure shall be designed to both minimize horizontal air
drafts to the greatest practicable extent and to allow free
circulation of convection air currents generated during the
gas flame test.

●
4.7.15.3 ~. The burner shall be mounted within the camber, such that
the holes in its top are in common horizontal plane. The specimen shall be
suspended within the enclosure, such that it is parallel to the burner, horizontally
centered directly above the burner and spaced 1 7/8 +/- 1/8 inches vertically above
the top of the burner surface. Specimen suspension shall be

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accomplished in a manner (such as by wire loops) which shall not significantly

shield the specimen from flame and which shall prevent any portion of the specimen
from dropping closer than 3/4 inch to the top surface of the burner during specimen
burning. The gas air supply shall then be attached to the burner and the gas
adjusted to provide a flow rate of not less than that calculated by the following
formula:

Gas flow rate, in cubic feet per hour = 1367 (T+273)/PN

Where: T - Measured ambient temperature in the vicinity of the

burner, in ‘C. Measurement accuracy shall be within
+/- 0.5 Oc.
P = Local atmospheric pressure, in lb/in2 absolute.
Measurement accuracy shall be within +/- 2 %.
N = Gross heating value, in BTU’s/ft3, of the gas at an
atmospheric pressure of 14.69 lb/ in2 absolute and a
I
, temperature of 23 ‘C, this value shall be accurate in
+/- 2 %.

The gas exiting the burner shall then be ignited and the air flow to the burner
adjusted to produce the smallest blue flame possible. The short circuit monitor
test voltages shall then be applied to the specimen, as shown in figure 11. If the
specimen is armored, an additional test voltage shall be applied by grounding the
armor as shown in figure 11. (this will effectively apply an additional voltage
which is approximately equal to the test voltage divided by the square root of three
between the armor and the specimen conductors. ) The flame and test voltages shall
remain continuously applied to the specimen for a period of not less than that
specified (see 3.1) , unless specimen failure (see 4.7.15.4) occurs prior to the end
of this period, in which case the test .may be terminated.

4 .7.15.4 nbservar~. Specimen failure shall be construed in any fuse blows or

if any overload relay trips prior to completion of the specified test period (see
3.1).

4.7.16 Heat disto rtion. This test shall determine the ability of insulation and
jacket material to resist physical deformation when subjected to an elevated
temperature.

4.7.16.1 Each specimen shall be removed from completed cable or cord

in accordance with (a) and (b), (1) or (2), whichever iS indicated. The number of
specimens which shall be required shall be in accordance with (b) (3), (4) or (S)t
as appropriate.

(a) Cable jacket: Each specimen shall consist of a piece jacketing

that has been removed from a finished cable and a cut to form
rectangular strip. This strip shall be not less than 7/8 inch
long nor less than 9/16 +/- 1/16 inch wide, and shall be
ground and buffed to a thickness of 0.50 +/0.010 inch with a
grinding apparatus (see 4 .7.16.2 (c)). The thickness of the
specimen shall be made as uniform as practicable.

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MIL-C-24643A

(b) Insulation:
(1) Cables or cords which incorporate conductors with
cross sections of more than 190,000 circular roils,
each specimen shall consist of a piece of insulation
which has been removed from a conductor and which
has been cut tc form a rectangular srrip. This strip
shall be not less than 7/8 inch long nor less than 9/16
+/1/16 inch wide, and shall be ground and buffed to a
thickness of 0.50 +/0.010 inch with a grinding apparatus
(see 4 .7.16.2 (c)). The thickness of the specimen shall
be made as uniform as practicable.
(2) Cables or cords which incorporate conductors with
cross sections of 190,000 circular roils or less,
each specimen shall consist of a single insulated
conductor of a length not less than 7/8 inch.
Note: In order to prevent misleading results, the conductor
should be removed and replaced with a solid copper rod
of similar diameter.
(3) Cables or cords containing four or fewer conductors, one
specimen shall be prepared from each insulated conductor.
(4) Cables or cords containing more than four but fewer than
21 conductors, one specimen shall be prepared from each
of four different insulated conductors (a total of four
specimens) .
(5) Cables or cords containing 21 or more conductors, the
number of specimens prepared shall be equal to the square
root (rounded if necessary, to the nearest whole number)
of the total number of conductors. Each specimen shall be
prepared from a different. insulated conductor.

4.7.16.2 . Apparatus shall include the following:

(a) A self standing thickness gage, for supporting the requirements

as specified in 4.7.16.3, which shall exhibit a measurement
error of not less than +/- 0.001 inch. This gage shall
incorporate a flat horizontal platen upon which the entire
specimen shall be laid flat during measurement and shall
incorporate a foot which rests upon the top of the specimen
during measurement. This foot shall be attached to a plunger
which moves freely in the vertical direction and which is
attached to a dial or other indicating device from which the
specimen thickness may be read. The foot shall present a
horizontal disk of 3/8 + O, - 1/64 inch diameter to the
specimen, which shall bear down on the specimen with a force
of 85 + O, - 4 grams and shall be loaded with weights (see
4.7.26.3) to present additional force to the specimen.

(b) A micrometer (required for insulated conductor specimens only)

with flat, parallel measurement surfaces on both spindle and
anvi 1, for the specimen thickness measurement as specified in
4 .7.16.3 (b) (1), which shall exhibit a measurement error of
not more than +/- 0.001 inch.

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MIL-C-24643A

(c) A motor driven grinding wheel and a motor driven buffing

wheel , or their equal, for the specimen preparation as
specified in 4.7.16.1 (a) and (b) (l). Guides shall be provided
to assure that the specimen is pulled tangentially to the
surface of each wheel during grinding and buffing.

(d) M oven, for accommodating the gage with the specimen inserted
and for supporting the requirements as specified in 4.7.16.3.
The oven air temperature shall be measured in the immediate
vicinity of the specimen.

4 .7.16.3 ~. The initial insulation thickness of each specimen (T in the

formula below) shall be determined (see (a) (1) and (b) ( ) below) and the oven
shall be preheated to 121 +/- 1° C. This oven temperature shall be maintained for
the remainder of the test. The gage foot shall then be 1(aded with weights (see (a)
(2) and (b) (2) below) and the gage placed within the oven. Not less than one hour
later, one specimen shall be selected and also placed within the oven. Not less
than one hour after placing the specimen within the oven, the specimen shall be
placed beneath the gage foot such that the gage indicates the specimen thickness.
Not less than 1 hour after placing the specimen beneath the gage foot, the final
specimen thickness or diameter (as appropriate) shall be read from the gage and the
final insulation thickness (t in formula below) determined (see (a) (3) and (b) (3)
below) . In an identical manner, the remaining specimens shall also be tested. The
percentage heat distortion of the insulation shall then be calculated by using the
following formula:

Percentage heat distortion = Median value of 100 (T-t)/T for all

tested specimens.

Where : T = Initial insulation thickness of the specimen, in

thousandths of an inch (see (a) and (b) below) .
t = Final insulation thickness of the specimen, in
thousandths of an inch (see (a) and (b) below) .

The following additional details apply:

(a) Rectangular strip specimens:

(1) The initial insulation thickness (T) shall be the initial
specimen thickness, as measured with he gage, prior to
loading the gage with weights and prior to inserting
either the gage or the specimen into the oven
(2) The gage foot shall be loaded with 2000 +/- 100 grams.
(3) The final insulation thickness (t) shall be the final
specimen thickness, measured as specified.

(b) Insulated conductor specimen:

(1) The initial insulation thickness (T) shall be defined as
1/2 of the difference between the measured overall
specimen diameter and the measured specimen conductor
diameter. Measurements shall be made using the
micrometer. The overall specimen diameter shall be
measured in the same radial direction as will be measured
when the final insulation thickness (t) (see (b) (3)
below) is determined.

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MIL-C-24643A

(2) The gage foot shall be loaded as follows:

a. Specimens with a conductor cross section of not more
than 3999 circular roils nor less than 2700 circular
roils: 400 +/- 20 grams.
b. Specimens with a conductor cross section of not more
than 21,999 circular roils nor less than 4000 circular
roils: 500 +/- 25 grams.
c. Specimens with a conductor cross section of not more
than 94,999 circular roils nor less than 22,000
circular roils: 750 +/- 35 grams.
d. Specimens with a conductor cross section of not more
than 189,999 circular roils nor less than 95,000
circular roils: 1000 +/- 50 grams.
(3) The final insulation thickness (t) shall be defined as 1/2
of the difference between the final specimen diameter,
measured as specified and the previously measured
specified conductor diameter.

4 .7.16.4 The specimen shall be construed to have failed the test

if the percentage heat distortion is greater than that specified on the applicable
specification sheet.

4.7.17 ostatic (oDen PnQ . This test shall determine the ability of
completed cable, which is intended to pass through watertight bulkheads, to prevent
the longitudinal flow of high pressure water when properly installed in a bulkhead
penetrator.

4,7.17.1 8~Decm. The specimen shall consist of a 60 +/- 2 inch length of

completed cable.

4.7.17.2 . Apparatus shall include a tank which can be filled

with water, can be internally pressurized to the specified value (see 3.1) and which
is used for applying this water pressure to one specimen end, as specified in
4.7.17.3 An appropriate stuffing tube, as specified in MIL-S-24235 and MIL-S-
24235/1, shall be welded into the tank wall to provide a means for sealin9 the one
specimen end within the tank. AXI appropriate packing assembly, as specified in MIL-
S-24235 and MIL-S-24235/2, shall be available to effect this sealing (4.7.17.3) . A
means shall be provided whereby the pressure within the tank can be measured within
an accuracy of plus or minus 5 percent.

* 4+7.17.3 ~. One end of the specimen shall be installed through the tank
stuffing tube and shall be sealed in place by using the packing assembly as
specified in DoD Standard 2003. The opposite specimen end shall remain freely
exposed to air for the remainder of the test. The tank shall then be closed and
filled with water such that the specimen end within the tank remains directly and
entirely exposed to water for the remainder of the test. The water shall then be
pressurized to a value of not less than that specified (see 3.1). This pressure
shall be maintained for a continuous period of not less than that specified (see
3.1), unless specimen failure (see 4.7.17.4) occurs prior to the end of this period,
in which case the test may be terminated prematurely. Following the test, the
specimen shall be removed from the tank and the end which had been exposed to water
pressure shall be examined.

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MIL-C-24643A

4.7.17.4 Either of the following shall constitute specimen

failure:
(a) Any water leakage from the free end of the specimen in excess
of that specified (see 3.1) at any time during the test.
(b) Slippage of more than 1/4 inch, with respect to the specimen
jacket, of any specimen component at the end of the specimen
which had been exposed to water pressure.

4.7.18 Permanence o f Drintin a (cn~. This test shall determine

the ability of printed information on insulated conductors to remain legible in the
presence of repeated abrasion.

4 .7.18.1 SDecimen- Each specimen shall consist of a single insulated conductor

which shall have sufficient length for use in the test as specified in 4.7.18.3.
Specimens shall be removed from completed cable or cord as follows:

(a) Cables or cords containing four or fewer conductors: one

specimen shall be removed from each insulated conductor.
(b) Cables or cords containing more than four but fewer than 21
conductors: one specimen shall be removed from each of four
different insulated conductors (a total of four specimens) .
(c) Cables or cords containing 21 or more conductors: The number
of specimens removed shall be equal to the square root
(rounded, if necessa~, to the nearest whole number) or the
total number of conductors. Each specimen shall be removed
from a different insulated conductor.

4.7.18.2 SDecial Apparatus shall include an abrading machine, which

shall secure a specimen horizontally between two fixed supports, and which shall
abrade the specimen printed identification by
means of a motor-driven, reciprocating tape consisting of number 50-2/20 unbleached
cotton braid. One possible arrangement for the abrading machine is shown on figure
12. The braided cotton tape shall lie flat on the specimen t3UrfaCe, shall remain
perpendicular to the specimen axis, and shall abrade an unchanging area of the
specimen periphe~, over an arc of not less than 135 degrees, at all times during
the test. One end of the tape shall be reciprocated at a rate of 20 +/- 3 cycles
per minute, such that the tape is drawn across the specimen for a distance of 10
plus 1, minus O inches in each direction (20 inches minimum total excursion during
cycle) . The opposite end of the tape shall be maintained under tension by a freely
suspended 1/2 plus 1/64, minus O pound weight. Each side of the tape shall be used
to perform not more than 500 cycles; the tape shall then be discarded and replaced.
The abrading machine shall incorporate an automatic counter to total the number of
abrasion cycles to which the specimen is subjected during the test.

4.7.18.3 ~. Each specimen shall be wiped with a clean, dry cloth to

remove any lubricant or dirt. One specimen shall then be selected and mounted
between the two fixed supports of the abrading machine. Mounting shall be
accomplished such that the specimen shall be as taut as practicable, and such that
the braided cotton tape shall repeatedly abrade the same portion of the specimen
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,. .,

MIL-C-24643A

printed identification at all times during the test. The automatic counter shall be
set initially to zero. The abrading machine motor shall then be turned on.
Allowing the braided cotton tape to reciprocate and abrade the specimen printed
identification either until the printed identification iB no longer legible in its
abraded region, or until not fewer than the specified number of abrasive cycles (see
3.1) have been completed whichever occurs first. The number of abrasive cycles
completed shall then be noted, and the remaining specimens then tested in an
identical manner.

4.7.18.4 Obse rvatio~. Specimen failure shall be construed if the median value
of the number of abrasive cycles completed on each specimen is less than that
specified (see 3.1) .

4.7.19 (i~ . This test shall determine the ability

of printed information of jacketing material to remain legible in the presence of
repeated abrasion.

4.7.19.1 *eciw. The specimen shall consist of a piece of completed cable or

cord which shall have sufficient length for use in the test as specified in
4.7.19.3.

4 .7.19.2 SDe c i a l m r m r ~ t w . Apparatus shall include an abrading machine which

shall support and secure the specimen such that it is straight and horizontal, and
which shall abrade the specimen printed identification by means of a motor driven,
transversely reciprocating steel pin. This steel pin shall have a diameter of 0.025
+/- 0.001 inch where it abrades the specimen, and shall have a surface roughness of
not less than 2 micro inches, as specified in ANSI B46.1. (A selected sewing needle
may satisfy these requirements.) One possible arrangement for the abrading machine
is shown on figure 13. The steel pin shall be horizontal and perpendicular to the
specimen axis, shall ride along the top of the specimen had shall be weighted to
bear down the specimen with a force of 1 plus 1/16, minus O pound at all times
during the test. This pin shall be reciprocated at a rate of 60 +/- 2 cycles per
minute, such that the pin is drawn along the specimen for a distance of 3/8 plus
1/16, minus O inch in each direction (3/4 inch minimum total excursion) during each
cycle. The abrading machine shall incorporate an automatic counter to total the
number of times that the specimen is abraded by the steel pin during the test.

●
4.7.19.3 ~. The specimen shall be wiped with a clean, dry cloth to
remove any lubricant or dirt, and shall be secured in the abrading machine with the
specimen printed identification facing upwards, where it is to be abraded by the
steel pin. The automatic counter shall be set initially to zero. The abrading
machine motor shall then be turned on, allowing the steel pin to reciprocate and
abrade the specimen printed identification either until the printed identification
is no longer legible in the abraded region, or until not fewer than 125 abrasive
cycles have been completed, whichever occurs first. The number of abrasive cycles
completed shall then be noted. This test shall be next be repeated four more times
(five times total), subjecting a fresh portion of the specimen printed
identification to abrasion each time.

●
4.7.19.4 ~. Specimen failure shall be construed if the median value
of the number of abrasive cycles completed during each of the five tests is less
than 125.

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MIL-C-24643A

4.’?.20 lation and iacket . This test shall

determine whether or not various insulating and jacketing materials have been
properly processed, by means of tension measurements. This test makes provision for
making tension measurements both before and after these materials have been
artificially aged.

4 .7.20.1 Suet imens . Each specimen shall consist of a single piece of insulation
or jacketing, which shall have sufficient length for use in the test as specified in
4.7.31, as specified (see 3.1) . Specimens shall be removed from completed cable or
cord.

4 .7.20.2 Apparatus shall include the following:

(a) A forced fresh air circulating oven for supporting the

requirements as specified in 4.7.20.3(a) . The oven air
temperature shall be measured in the immediate vicinity of the
specimens.
(b) A heated container, which shall be filled with lubricating oil
in accordance with spol number 2190 TEP of MIL-L-17331, and which
shall be for the specimen immersion as specified in
4.7.20.3(b). The oil shall be maintained at a temperature of
121 +/- 1° C during specimen immersion.

4.7.20.3 E nUe dWE . Specimens shall be maintained at ambient temperature for a

period of not less than 30 minutes immediately prior to any accelerated aging or
testing. Each of the specified physicals (aged) accelerated aging procedures shall
be performed as follows, using one specimen for each procedure. The same specimen
shall not be used for more than one physicals (aged) procedure. Each of the
specified physicals (unaged) test shall be performed as specified in 4.7.31.
(a) Air oven accelerated aging: each specimen shall be freely
suspended vertically, secured by one end, within the oven. The
air temperature within the oven shall then be raised to the
value specified in table XVIII, and shall be maintained at
this value for a continuous period of not less than that
specified in table XVIII. Each specimen shall then be removed
from the oven and tested as specified in 4.7.31.
(b) Hot oil immersion accelerated aging: each specimen shall
be submerged within the hot oil bath for a continuous period
of not less than that specified in table XVIII. Each specimen
shall then be removed from the hot oil bath, blotted lightly
to remove excessive oil and then suspended in air, to ambient
room temperature, for 4 + 1/2 hours. Each specimen shall then
be tested as specified in 4.7.31.

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MIL-C-24643A

TABLE XVIII. .
Specimen material Procedure Temperature Minimum
(Oc) period
(Hours)
Insulatio?
Specimens:
Polyethylene Air oven 121 f 2 168
(cross linked)
Rubber (Ethylene Air oven 121 * 2 168
Propylene)

Jacketing
Specimens: Air oven 260 * 2 24
Silicon rubber Air oven 136 i 2 16S
Cross linked Hot oil 121 * 2 18
Polyolefin immersion

4.7.20.4 9 b s e rvatio n. my of the following shall constitute specimen failure:

(a) A specimen tensile strength which is less than that specified

(see 3.1).
(b) A specimen elongation which is less than that specified (see
3.1).

4.7.21 The specific gravity of extruded silicone rubber

insulation shall be determined in accordance with method D of AS’I?4D 297.

4.7.22 ~. This test shall determine the ability of elastomeric

jacketing material to withstand the propagation of a cut passing through a portion
of its length.

4.7.22.1 ~. This test shall consist of a piece of jacketing material,

which shall have been cut to the dimensions specified in AS~ D 470. Specimens
shall be removed from completed cable or cord. Not fewer than five specimens shall
be required.

4.7.22.2 Apparatus shall include the following:

(a) A micrometer with flat, parallel measurement surfaces on both

spindle and anvil, which shall be for the specimen
measurements as specified in 4.7.22.3 and which shall exhibit
a measurement error of not more than plus or minus 0.001 inch.
(b) A motor driven tensile machine which shall be for applying
increasing tension to the specimen, and which shall
automatically indicate within plus or minus 1 percent the
maximum tension experienced by the specimen prior to
tearing. This tensile machine shall incorporate two parallel
and opposing jaws, between which the specimen can be secured,
as specified in 4.7.22.3. The two jaws shall increase their
separation at the uniform rate of 20 +/- 2 inches per minute by
means of the tensile machine motor.

4.7.22.3 ~. The specimen shall be tested in accordance with ASTY’4D 470.

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MIL-C-24643A

4.7.22.4 Specimen failure shall be construed if the median value

of the measured tear strengths of all specimens is less than that specified (see
3.1).

n rn. This test shall determine the ability of completed

cab~~’~~~ c~ which is intended to be flexed during use, to with-stand repeated
and reversing torsional motion while subjected to a specified temperature.

4.7.23.1 SDecimen. The specimen shall consist of a piece of completed cable or

cord which shall have a length of not less than the sum of 18 inches plus 10 times
the specified maximum overall cable or cord diameter (see 3.11 , except that no
specimen shall have a length of less than 24 inches. Specimen circuit is formed by
the conductors. The two end conductors of this series circuit shall be connected as
specified in 4.7.23.3.

4.7.23.2 SDecial aDD~ . Apparatus shall include the following:

(a) A twisting machine for suspending the specimen vertically,

and for automatically twisting the upper specimen end
alternately clockwise and counterclockwise by 180 plus 10,
minus O degrees with respect to the lower specimen end as
described below.

(1) The specimen shall be suspended and repeatedly twisted from

one extremity by means of a clamp, which shall be fastened
to a motor driven, rotating and reversing mechanism (such
as a pinion connected to a rack, which in turn is made to
reciprocate by an arm from a motorj . The upper specimen
end shall be twisted about its axis at a rate of not more
than 14, nor less than 12 cycles per minute. Each cycle
shall produce 180 plus 10, minus O degrees of clockwise
axial specimen rotation plus 180 plus 10, minus O degrees
of counterclockwise axial specimen rotation (360 plus 20,
minus O degrees total rotation) . The upper end of the
specimen jacket shall be a distance of not less than 1
inch above the nearest edge of the clamp.
(2) A weight shall be provided for applying tension to the
specimen. This weight shall be attached to the lower
specimen extremity by means of a second clamp, which shall
be constrained from rotating but which shall be free to
move in the vertical direction at all times during the
test. The weight shall be chosen such that the:

Tension from the second clamp plus the weight in pounds

10(3.14159)d2 +/- (3.14159)d2/2

Where: d. Specified maximum overall cable or cord

diameter, in inches (see 3.1) .
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MIL-C-24643A

This second clamp shall be separated from the rotating

clamp by a distance which shall not exceed the sum of 6
inches plus 10 times the specified maximum overall cable
or cord diameter (see 3.1) . The second clamp and weight
shall be constructed such that tension is applied
vertically downward along the specimen axis. The lower end
of the specimen jacket shall be a distance of not less
than 1 inch below the nearest edge of a clamp.
(3) Both the rotating clamp and the tensioning weight clamp
shall apply radial compression to the specimen that
neither the specimen nor any of its internal components
will slip in the clamping area.
(4) - automatic counter shall be provided to total the number
of twisting cycles performed on the specimen during a
test.
(5) The specimen shall not come into contact with any piece of
machinery, except for the rotating clamp, the tensioning
weight clamp and the circuit continuity monitor (see (5)(b))
at any time during the test.

(b) Circuit continuity monitor (a means for continuously monitoring

the electrical continuity of the series connected specimen
conductors) shall automatically stop the motion of the rotaq
clamp as by removing motor power when a specimen conductor
breaks.
(c) A test chamber for maintaining the specified air temperature
(see 3.1) wishin plus or minus 2° C, for accommodating the
twisting machine with specimen attached and for supporting the
requirements as specified in 4 .7.23.3.. The chamber air
temperature shall be measured in the immediate vicinity of the
specimen, approximately midway between the two specimen clamps
of the twisting machine. The test chamber shall have a viewing
port for observing the specimen under test.
(d) Voltage withstand test apparatus shall be as specified in 4.8.8.2

4.’7.23.3 ~. The twisting machine shall be installed in the test

chamber, and the specimen shall be installed in the twisting machine. The circuit
continuity monitor shall be connected between the two end conductors of the single
series circuit within the specimen. The test chamber doors shall then be closed,
and the air temperature within the chamber shall be brought to the specified value
(see 3.1) within plus or minus 2° C. After the air temperature within the chamber
has been maintained at this value for a period of not less than 1 hour, the
automatic counter shall be set initially to zero and the twisting endurance test
begun by turning on the motor driven, rotating clamp. The specified number of
twisting cycles (see 3.1) shall be performed. unless specimen failure (see 4-7”23.4)
occurs prior to the completion of this number of cycles. The test may then be
terminated prematurely. At all times during the test, the temperature within the
chamber shall be maintained as specified (see 3.1) within plus or minus 2° C and the
test chamber doors shall remain closed. Following the test, the specimen shall be
removed from the twisting machine and the test chamber.

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MIL-C-24643A

4.7.23.4 Qberwfdm. Either of the following shall constitute specimen

failure, except that specimen damage within 2 inches of the location where either
specimen clamp had been fastened shall not constitute specimen failure, but shall
require a complete retest using a different specimen from the same length of cable
or cord:

(a) Rotary clamp stoppage caused by the circuit continuity monitor

(indication specimen conductor breakage), prior to completion
of the specified number twisting cycles (see 3.1) .
(b) Rupture of the specimen jacket prior to completion of the
specified number of bending cycles (see 3.1) . Specimens
exhibiting no failure shall be tested further, as specified in
4.7.23.5.

4.7.23.5 Furth”r Qroredure (mav not be reouired. see 4.7.U. The specimen
shall be allowed to return to room temperature and shall be subjected to the voltage
withstand test as specified in 4.8.8, using the specified voltages (see 3.1) .
Following this, the portion of the specimen which had been between the specimen
clamps of the twisting machine shall be dissected, and each of its constituent
components visually inspected for deterioration.

4 .7.23.6 Yurthe r observa tion. Either of the following shall constitute specimen
failure, except that specimen damage within 2 inches of the location where either
specimen clamp had been fastened shall not constitute specimen failure, but shall
require a complete retest of twisting endurance using a different specimen from the
same length of cable or cord.

(a) Specimen fails the voltage withstand test (see 4.8.8).

(b) Specimen, upon dissection and inspection, exhibits visible
distortion or cracking of any specimen component, including
strand breakage on any conductor, or exhibits any other
visible deterioration of such a nature or extent as to impair
the performance of the cable or cord in service.

4.7.24 Watertiuhtness. This test shall determine the ability of completed

cable, which is intended to pass through watertight bulkheads, to prevent the
longitudinal flow of low-pressure water.

4 .7.24.1 The specimen shall consist of a 60 +/- 2 inch length of

completed cable. The specimen ihall be cut to length using a scissors-action cable
cutter. Saws shall not be used.

4 .7.24.2 Apparatus shall include the following:

(a) A source of pressurized water, which shall be provided at a

regulated pressure of 25 +/- 1/2 lb/in2 and which shall be for
use with the terminal fitting (see (b)) as specified in
4.7.24.3.
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MIL-C-24643A

(b) A metal terminal fitting which applies the source of

pressurized water to one end of the specimen, which supports
the requirements as specified in 4.7.24.3, and which shall be
fabricated as specified in the following. Figure 14 shows one
possible arrangement for the terminal fitting. The fitting
shall admit the specimen end for the distance specified in
4.7.24.3, and shall have an id., where it fits over the
specimen, of not greater than the measured overall specimen
diameter plus 1/2 inch. The fitting shall have a means for
introducing the source of pressurized water to the specimen
end, and means for bleeding off any air which might be trapped
between the specimen end and the source of pressurized water.
The fitting shall also have an aperture for introducing a
hardening sealant (see (c)), to produce a pressure-tight bond
between the fitting and the specimen jacket. A plug (such as a
thick wrapping of rubber tape around the specimen) shall be
provided at the place where the specimen enters the fitting,
to prevent sealant loss and to approximately center the
specimen within the fitting.
(c) A liquid hardening sealant which shall be for producing a
pressure tight bond between the fitting and the specimen
jacket, when applied as specified (see 4.7.24.3) and allowed
to harden. The sealant shall be at a temperature of not
greater than 100° C when poured into the terminal fitting, and
shall not expand in volume while hardening. An appropriate
metal alloy is recommended as a sealant since it can be
remelted and reused. my metal alloy used shall have a melting
point of not greater than 88° C.

4.7.24.3 ~. The specimen shall be secured in a vertical position, the

terminal fitting (including the plug) shall be fitted over its upper end, and the
hardening sealant shall be poured through the appropriate terminal fitting aperture
to bond the fitting to the specimen. These shall be done such that the specimen is
approximately centered within the terminal fitting, such that not more than a 6 inch
length of specimen jacket is exposed to the sealant, such that the end face of the
specimen is located a distance of not more than 1 inch above the sealant surface and
itself contains no sealant, and such that the aperture through which the sealant was
introduced is itself made pressure tight. The sealant shall be allowed to harden,
following which the terminal fitting plug shall be removed or cut away to the extent
that it exerts no radial compression on the specimen. The specimen shall then be
positioned such that it is straight, and such that no portion of the specimen is at
a greater elevation than the specimen end within the terminal fitting. The fitting
shall then be connected to the source of pressurized water, and excess air within
the fitting shall be bled off until it can be certain that the entire enclosed
specimen end face is exposed to the pressurized water for the remainder of the test.
The source of pressurized water shall remain connected to the fitting for a
continuous period of 6 plus 1/4, minus O hours. During this test period, water (if
any) leaking from the specimen end opposite the terminal fitting shall be collected
into an initially dry container. Following the test period, the volume of this
collected water shall be measured.

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MIL-C-24643A

4 .7.24.4 Specimen failure shall be construed if the collected

water volume exceeds that shown in table XIX.

Sum of specified cross sections

of all specimen conductors (see Collected water volume,
3.1) (circular roils) (cubic inches, maximum)
Less than 9,001 4
9,001 to 15,000 5
15,001 to 25, 000 6
I
25,001 to 50,000 8
50,001 to 100,000 9
100,001 to 200,000 10
200,001 to 500,000 11
500,001 to 800,000 12
800,001 or greater 13

I 4.7.25 ~. The method given below is to determine the total

emission of any strong soluble acids (ph less than 3) . The required apparatus is
shown on figure 15. A weighed sample of the jacket, fillers and insulation
materials (for component wire, use insulation removed from a 22 AWG wire) , normallY
I 1/4 to 1/2 gram, shall be placed in a silica boat which is put into the center of a
silica tube, length 50/60 centimeters and internal diameter 20/22 millimeters. The
material shall be tested individually. The silica tube shall be placed in the tube
furnace. - air supply, derived from a blower or compressed air cylinder, at the
rate of 1 liter per minute plus or minus 5 percent shall be passed through the
silica tube and then through four absorber flasks each containing 30 milliliters of
deionized water. The furnace heating shall be commenced and the temperature of the
tube and sample shall be raised to 800 +/- 10° C over a period of approximately 40
minutes and then held at temperature for a further 20 minutes. During the heating
period, any acid gases produced will be carried over into the absorber flasks. On
completion of the heating cycle, the acid content of the fluids in the absorber
I flasks shall be titrated against 0.1 N sodium hydroxide solution using congo red as
an indicator. The total titer indicates the total soluble acids. 1.0 mL of 0.1 N
sodium hydroxide solution is equivalent to 3.65 mg of acid expressed as “acid
equivalent relative to hydrochloric acid.”
I
4.7.25.1 -vati~. Specimen failure shall be construed if the acid
equivalent exceeds the percentage, by weight of the sample, specified (see 3.1) .

I 4-7.26 ~. The halogen content of the cable jacket or fillers

shall be determined by X-ray fluorescence or analytically following an examination
and analyses of the chemical composition of all ingredients used.

4.7.26.1 Pb - r vati~. Specimen failure shall be construed if the halogen

content is greater than that specified (see 3.1) .

●
4.7.27 mo ke index. The smoke index shall be measured as specified in NES 711
except for the following modifications as listed in 4 .7.27.1 and 4.7.27.2.

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MIL-C-24643A

●
4.7,27.1 >ec imen:

(a) Jacket. Each specimen shall consist of a sufficient number of

75 mm long strips cut from the cable jacket to completely
cover the face area of the sample holder. To prevent excessive
buckling and distortion of the specimen during test, a wire .
mesh, manufactured from either a 1.0 mm diameter stainless
steel wire with a spacing of 12.5 mm and a square mesh
configuration or a 40 mil stainless steel wire 2 mesh screen
(2 openings per inch), shall be placed inside and across the
face of the sample holder. The specimen shall be fabricated by
placing the specimen holder (with wire mesh) test face down
onto a flat surface and positioning each 75 mm length in the
holder in a parallel arrangement so that when the holder is in
the test position the strips will be vertical. An insulating
block 10 mm thick completely wrapped in aluminum foil shall be
placed on top of the strips followed by a tension spring and
locking pin.
(b) Insulation. The test specimen shall be a 1 meter length of 22
AWG finished wire with a nominal wall thickness of 0.020 inch
of insulation material.
(c) Fillers and sealants.
1. NON FIBROUS The test specimen shall be 3 by 3 inches of
0.070 +/- 0.010 inch thick block of the same material used
in the cable.
2. Fibrous The test specimen shall consist of as many 75 mm
lengths of 0.070 +/- 0.010 inch diameter strands necessary
to fill the 3 by 3 inch test specimen holder one layer
deep and as closely spaced as possible. The test
specimens shall be prepared as described in 4.7.27.1 (a)

4.7.27.2 ~. Special procedures shall include the

following:
A. Only the use of propane gas shall be allowed.
B. The Radiometer shall be used to calibrate the heat flux at
the initial start of each test period.
C. The test chamber shall be calibrated using a NIST CELLULOSE
standard at the initial start of each test period.
D. The chamber shall be inspected to assure airtightness. Seals
and gaskets shall be replaced as”needed.
E. The test shall be run using a minimum of three specimens. If
test values are below the limits specified (see 3.1) test
is complete. If one rest value deviates from the median
value by more than 20 percent, two additional tests shall be
performed. The high and low test values shall be discarded
and the remaining three averaged.

4.7.27.3 Obsemat ion. Specimen failure shall be construed if any smoke index is
greater than that specified (see 3.1) .

4.7.28 Specimens of the cable jacket material (see 4.7.20.1)

shall be immersed in the fluids shown in table XX for 24 hours at the temperatures
specified. The specimens shall then be removed, blotted to remove excess fluid,
then suspended in air at room temperature for not less than 3-1/2 nor more than 4-
1/2 hours. Each specimen shall be tested as specified in 4.7.31.

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MIL-C-24643A

TABLE XX Ion Test temoer~

Fluid I Test
temperature
Fuel oil, MIL-F-16884 98 to 100° C
Turbine fuel, JP-4, MIL-T-5624 48 to 5@oc
Turbine fuel, JP-5, Mil-T-5624 48 to 500C
Cleaner, Isopropyl alcohol, lT-I-735 20 to 25° C
Hydraulic fluid, MIL-H-5606 48 to 500C
Hydraulic fluid, MIL-H-17672 48 to 500C
Lubricating oil, MIL-L-23699 98 to 100° C
coolant. Monsanto Coolanol 25 or equivalent 20 tO 25° C

4 .7.28.1 Qbser vat@. Any of the following shall construe specimen failure:

(a) A specimen tensile strength which is less than that specified

(see 3.1).
(b) A specimen elongation which is less than that specified (see
3.1).

4.7.29 Toxicitv inw. The toxicity index shall be determined as specified in

NES 713. For insulation materials, the toxicity index shall be calculated on the
mass of insulation on 1 meter length of finished wire size 22 AWG with a nominal
wall thickness of 0.020 inch of insulation material. For jacket and filler
materials, the toxicity index shall be calculated on 100 grams of material. (The
toxicity index is derived from the chemical analysis of the product of combustion of
the materials.)

4.7.29.1 Specimen failure shall be construed if any toxicity index

is greater than that specified (see 3.1) .

4.7.30 We~. Jacket material shall be tested in accordance with lWINl D

2565. The following conditions shall apply:

Xenon arc lamb

6500 Watt
Borosilicate glass filters
Irradiance: 1.75 w/m2 .nm at 500 nm
Exposure: Arc lamp on: 18 hours
Black panel temp 5(I+/- 2° C
Relative humidity 50 +/- 2 percent
(for 18 minutes every 2 hours water
is sprayed into specimen)
Arc lamp off: 6 hours
Temperature 25 +/- 2° C
Relative humidity 90-95 percent
Total exposure time: 1000 hours.

4.7.30.1 9 b - = vat~. Specimen failure shall be construed if the tensile

strength and elongation retention is less than 75 percent or if the specimen surface
exhibits signs of cracking when examined using 3X magnification.

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4.7.31 Both aged and unaged specimens of the

insulation and jacket material shall be tested in accordance with methods 3021 and
3031 of FED-STD-228. Unless otherwise specified on the applicable specification
sheet, there shall be 1 inch bench marks, 1 inch jaw separation and a rate of jaw
travel of 10 inches per minute. For cross linked polyethylene insulation meeting
the criteria of ASITl D 1248 for type II, III, and IV insulation the rate of jaw
travei shall be 2 inches per minute. The thickness of the specimen shall be
measured using any suitable micrometer.

4.7.31.1 Observation. Specimen failure shall be construed if the tensile

strength and elongation retention is less than that specified herein or in the
applicable specification sheet.

4.7.32 ~. A 12 inch specimen of cable shall be cut so that all

components are flush at both ends. Unless otherwise specified in the applicable
specification sheet, the specimen shall then be aged at 136 +/- 3° C for 6 hours in
an air circulating oven. At the end of this period, the specimen shall be removed
from the oven and allowed to cool to room temperature. Shrinkage of the jacket
shall then be measured to determine the total distance the jacket has receded from
both ends of the conductor.

4.7.32.1 rvat@. Specimen failure shall be construed if the total

shrinkage of the jacket is greater than 0.25 inch.

4.7.33 . This test shall determine the ability of glass braid

covering to withstand bending and to determine the propensity of glass braids to
puncture overlaying covering.

4.7.33.1 . Each specimen shall consist of a single insulated conductor

(including insulation covering) of a length not less than that specified in Table
XXI . Specimens shall be removed from completed cable or cord as follows:

(a) Cables containing four or fewer conductors - one conductor shall be

removed from each insulated conductor.
(b) Cables containing more than four but fewer than 21 different
insulated conductors ( a total of four specimens) .
(c) Cables containing 21 or more conductors - the number of
specimens removed shall be equal to the square foot (rounded to
the nearest whole number) of the total number of conductors.
Each specimen shall be removed from a different insulated
conductor.

~ additional specimen, which shall consist of a piece of insulated conductor

(including insulation covering) of not less than 10 feet in length, may be required
(see 4.7.33.5)

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TABLE XXI. WCimen and mandre 1 dimtions for c~tance tesk.

Conductor size I Minimum specimen Mandrel diameter

(awg) length, (inches) (inches)

7 24 I 1/2 ~ 1/16
9 18 1 ~ 1/16
10 12 1/2 t 1/32
14 12 1/2 i 1/32
16 8 1/3 k 1/64
18 8 1/3 f 1/64
Greater than 18 I 6

4.7.33.2 SDecial armaratua. Apparatus shall include the following:

(a) Mandrel shall be a rigid, smooth cylinder, of the diameter

specified in table XXI and the length and construction for the
specimen wrapping as specified in 4.7.33.3.
(b) An aqueous solution of gentian violet, of a quantity and
concentration for staining as specified in 4.7.33.3 or 4.7.33.5,
as applicable.

4.7.33.3 W2s.@UE. Each specimen shall be tightly hand wrapped, for not fewer
than three circumferential and continuous, 360 degree turns around the mandrel.
Following this, each specimen shall be removed from the mandrel and continuous 360
degree turns in the opposite lateral direction. Each specimen shall next be removed
from the mandrel and straightened to the extent that the specimen is nowhere bent
along a radius of less than 12 times the maximum measured specimen diameter. Each
straightened specimen shall then be submerged, except for the extreme ends (which
shall remain exposed to the air) , in the gentian violet for a period of not less
than 30 minutes. The specimen shall then be removed from the gentian violet and
visually inspected for defects.

4.7.33.4 9b=-atio n. Specimen failure shall be construed if the insulation

covering of any specimen exhibits visible cracking or peeling which allows
penetration of the gentian violet. If the insulation covering of any specimen
exhibits an average of more than one pinhole, which allows penetration of the
gentian violet for each 12 inches of length, then the further procedure as specified
in 4.7.33.5 shall be performed.

4 .7.33.5 ~red. see 4.7.33.41. ~ additional

specimen, which shall consist of a piece of insulated conductor (including
insulation covering) of not less than 10 feet in length, shall be prepared. This
entire specimen except for the extreme ends (which shall be exposed to air) shall be
submerged in gentian violet for a period of not less than 30 minutes. To facilitate
submersion the specimen may be coiled to the extent that nowhere bent along a radius
of less than 12 times the maximum measured specimen diameter. The specimen shall
then be removed from the gentian violet and visually inspected for defects.

4 .7.33.6 Yurther obser vation. Specimen failure shall be construed if the

insulation covering of the specimen exhibits an average of more than one pinhole,
which allows penetration of the gentian violet for each 12 inches of length.

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* 4.7.34 ~tiog. The hot creep test shall be in accordance with

ICEA T-28-562. Test shall be performed as specified for XLP and EPR insulations.
The procedure for jacket testing shall be modified to run at 200° C. Insulation and
jacket percent of elongation shall be as specified in the individual slash sheets
(see 3.1)

4.8 Test methods (electrical) .

4.8.1 tion. This test shall determine the ability of completed cable,
I which is intended for the transmission of data, voice or control information, to
propagate a signal at a specific frequency without causing an unacceptable reduction
of signal amplitude.

4.8.1.1 The specimen shall consist of a piece of completed cable or

cord, which shall have sufficient length to exhibit an electrical attenuation of not
less than 3 decibels (dB) at the specified test frequency (see 3.1). Individual
transmission lines within this specimen (where each single insulated conductor Plus
surrounding shield or each insulated conductor pair plus surrounding shields is
considered to be a transmission line) shall be selected for testing as follows:

(a) Specimens containing four or fewer transmission lines: every

transmission line shall be tested.
(b) Specimens containing more than four but fewer than 21
transmission lines: Four different transmission lines shall
be tested. Not fewer than one of these transmission lines
shall be selected from each concentric cabling layer within
the specimen.
(c) Specimens containing 21 or more transmission lines: The
number of transmission lines tested shall be equal to the
square root (rounded, if necessary, to the nearest whole
number) of the total number of transmission lines. Not fewer
than one of these transmission lines shall be selected from
each concentric cabling layer within the specimen.

An electrical connector, which shall be designed for use at the specified test
frequency (see 3.1) , and which shall be appropriate for use with the specimen, shall
be attached to each end of each transmission line selected for testing.

4.8.1.2 Apparatus shall include the following, and shall be

used at the specified test frequency (see 3.1), and shall be chosen such that all
electrical interconnections (see 4.8.1.3) shall be of the same nominal
characteristic impedance throughout (except that connectors and specimens in which a
single conductor plus surrounding shield is tested may be of a different impedance
than this apparatus, if necessary) .

(a) A sinusoidal signal generator, which shall produce an

unchanging signal of the specified test frequency (see 3.1)
within a frequency accuracy of 0.25 percent. The signal
generator may be amplitude modulated in a constant and
unchanging manner if the detector (see (b)), requires an
amplitude modulated signal for proper operation. The signal

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MIL-C-24643A

generator shall generate power to produce a reasonable

indication on the detector when used as specified in 4.8.1.3,
however, the signal generator shall not generate so much power
that the specimen or any piece of test apparatus will
consequently experience a significant temperature rise.
(b) A c~stal diode, bolometer or other detector, with its
associated indicating device, which shall be used as
specified in 4.8.1.3.
(c) A calibrated variable attenuator, which shall produce a
maximum attenuation greater than that exhibited by the
specimen, and which shall resolve attenuation within an
accuracy of plus or minus 0.25 dB.
(d) Two fixed attenuators, each of which shall exhibit an
attenuation of not less than 10 dB.
(e) Impedance matching transformers (required only when testing a
conductor pair plus surrounding shield) : l%o, two winding
transformers; one winding of each transformer shall have an
impedance equal to the nominal impedance of the fixed
attenuators; the second winding of each transformer shall be
centertapped, and shall have an impedance equal to the
specified impedance of the specimen (see 3.1) . When testing a
single conductor plus surrounding shield, impedance matching
transformers may be used, if necessaqt to match the nominal
unbalanced impedance of each fixed attenuator (see (d)), to
the specified unbalanced impedance of the specimen (see 3.1) ,
as shown on figure 16.
(f) ~ adapter connector (may not be required, see 4.8.1.3) for
joining the two fixed attenuators directly together. This
adapter connector shall exhibit an attenuation which shall be
not greater than 2 percent of the specimen attenuation. If
desired, the adapter connector may be fabricated in the same
manner and of the same components as the specimen, except that
the shortest practicable length of completed cable or cord
shall be used to join the two connectors.

48.1.3 EUW%WLE: The test apparatus shall be electrically interconnected as

shown on figure 16 (when the transmission line to be tested is a single insulated
conductor plus surrounding shield) or as shown on figure 17 (when the transmission
line to be tested is an insulated conductor pair plus surrounding shield), as
applicable; one of the selected transmission lines shall then be connected where
shown. Following this, the calibrated variable attenuator shall be adjusted to a
low value, and the signal generator adjusted to produce a test signal of sufficient
amplitude to produce a reasonable indication on the detector. The setting on the
calibrated variable attenuator and the indication on the detector shall then be
noted. Next, the transmission line shall be disconnected from the test apparatus,
and the two fixed attenuators shall be connected together either directly, or, if
necessary, by means of an adapter connector. The signal

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MIL-C-24643A

generator shall not be readjusted. The calibrated variable attenuator shall then be
readjusted until the detector produces the same indication as was noted when the
transmission line was comected to the test apparatus. The new setting on the
calibrated variable attenuator shall then be noted, and the transmission line
attenuation shall be calculated by using the following formula:

Attenuation, in dB per 100 feet = 100 (A2 - A1)/L

Where : Al . Initial setting of the calibrated variable
attenuator (when the transmission line is connected to
the test apparatus) , in dB.
A2 . Final setting of the calibrated variable attenuator
(following transmission line removal from the test
apparatus) , in dB.
L = Measured specimen length, in feet; measurement accuracy
sha12 be within plus or minus 1 percent.

In an identical manner, the remaining selected transmission lines shall also be

tested.

4.8.1.4 Qbser vatio~. Specimen failure shall be construed if any transmission

line exhibits an attenuation which is greater than that specified (see 3.1) .

4.B.2 Capacitance. This test shall determine the capacitive characteristics of

completed cable and cord.

4.8.2.1 The specimen shall consist of a 122 +/- 1/2 inch length of
completed cable or cord, which shall have overall components (such as armors,
jackets or overall binders) removed from each end for a distance of 2 plus 1/2,
minus O inches, thereby exposing the insulated conductors (and shields, if
applicable) at each end of the cable core. Each exposed shield (if any) at each
cable end shall be unwrapped from the end of its enclosed insulated conductor(s) for
a distance of 1 +/- 1/8 inch; the unwrapped portion of each shield shall then be
tightly twisted to form a pigtail for electrical connection. The insulation shall
next be stripped from each end of each insulated conductor for a distance of 1/2 +/-
1/8 inch. If the characteristic impedance test is not required (see 3.1) , then the
insulation may be stripped, for the specified distance from all of the insulated
conductors at one specimen end only.

4.8.2.2 . Apparatus shall include an instrument for measuring

capacitance (such as a capacitance bridge, Q-meter or other instrument) which shall
be for supporting the requirements as specified in 4.0.2.3. This apparatus shall
have a two terminal measurement port, which shall use a sinusoidal wave of the
specified frequency (see 3.1) for making measurements, and shall make measurements
within an accuracy of plus or minus 1 percent.

.8.2.3 ~. The appropriate capacitance test method shall be selected

and performed from the following:

a) Specimens incorporating any number of individually shielded,

insulated conductor transmission lines: One transmission line
shall be selected for measurement, and each end shall be
positioned such that its conductor and shield shall not come
into mutual electrical contact, nor into electrical contact
with any other conductor or shield which may be within the
specimen. One end of this selected transmission line shall
then be appropriately connected electrically to the

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capacitance measuring instrument, and its capacitance shall be

measured. In an identical manner, the capacitance of every
other transmission line within the specimen shall also be
measured. The capacitance per foot of each transmission line
shall then be calculated by using the following formula:

Capacitance in picofarads per foot = C/10

Where: C . Measured capacitance of the transmission line,

in picofarads.

(b) Specimens incorporating any number of individually shielded,

insulated conductor pair transmission lines: one transmission
line shall be selected for measurement, and each end shall be
positioned such that neither its conductors nor its shield
come into mutual electrical contact, or into electrical
contact with any other conductor or shield which may be within
the specimen. Three capacitances shall then be measured at one
end of this transmission line as follows, where one conductor
of this line has been designated as conductor number 1 and
the other conductor of this line has been designated as
conductor number 2 as follows:

(1) Conductor number 1 and the shield shall both be

electrically connected to one terminal of the capacitance
measuring instrument, and conductor number 2 shall be
electrically connected to the other instrument terminal.
The capacitance shall then be measured and designated as
Ca .

(2) Conductor number 2 and the shield shall next be

electrically connected to one terminal of the capacitance
measuring instrument, and conductor number 1 shall be
electrically connected to the other instrument terminal.
The capacitance shall then be measured and designated by
‘b “
(3) Both conductor number 1 and conductor number 2 shall
then be electrically connected to one terminal of the
capacitance measuring instrument, and the shield shall
be electrically comected to the other instrument
terminal. The capacitance shall then be measured and
designated as Cc.

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The mutual capacitance per foot and, if specified (see 3.1),

the capacitance unbalance (sometimes called the coefficient of asymmetry)
shall then be calculated by using the following
approximate formulas:

Mutual capacitance, in picofarads per foot = (Ca + Cb)/20 - Cc/40

@3aCltance unbalance, in percent m Io[ca - cb]/cm

Where: Ca, Cb and Cc are as defined in (1), (2) and (3)

respectively, in picofarads.
cm = Calculated mutual capacitance, in picofarads per foot.

In an identical manner, the mutual capacitance and, if specified

(see 3.1), the capacitance unbalance of evev other transmission
line shall also be measured and calculated.

(c) Specimens incorporating multiple, unshielded, insulated

conductor pair transmission lines: the mutual capacitance
and, if specified (see 3.1) t the capacitance unbalance of
eve~ transmission line shall be determined, using the same
method as used for specimens incorporating individually
shielded, insulated conductor pair transmission lines, with
the following change: the overall specimen braid (if any) and
all specimen conductors except the conductor pair under test
shall be connected together electrically and considered to be
the shield of the transmission line under test.
(d) Specimens incorporating any number of individually shielded,
insulated conductor triad transmission lines: one transmission
line shall be selected for measurement, and each end shall be
positioned such that none of its conductors, nor its shield,
come into mutual electrical contact, nor into electrical
contact with any other conductor or shield which may be within
the specimen. Four capacitances shall then be measured at one
end of this transmission line as follows, where one conductor
of this line has been designated as conductor number 1,
another conductor of this line has been designated as
conductor number 2, and the remaining conductor of this line
has been designated as conductor number 3 as follows:

(1) Conductors number 2 and 3 and the shield shall be

electrically comected to one terminal of the capacitance
measuring instrument, and conductor number 1 shall be
electrically connected to the other instrument terminal.
The capacitance shall then be measured and designated as Ca.
(2) Conductors number 1 and 3 and the shield shall next be
electrically connected to one terminal of the
capacitance measuring instrument, and conductor number 2
shall be electrically connected to the other instrument
terminal. The capacitance shall then be measured and
designated as Cb.electrically connected to the other instrument
terminal. The capacitance shall then be measured and designated as Cc.

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MIL-C-24643A

(4) Conductors number 1, 2 and 3 shall then be electrically

connected to one terminal of the capacitance measuring
I instrument , and the shield shall be electrically
connected to the other instrument terminal. The
i capacitance shall then be measured and designated as cd.

The mutual capacitance per foot and, if specified (see 3.1),

the capacitance unbalance (sometimes called the coefficient of
asymmetry) shall then be calculated by using the following
approximate formulas:

a. Ca + Cb + Cc cd
cm = -—
40 120

b. The capacitance unbalance or coefficient of asymmetry (K) of a

shielded triad, expressed in percent, shall be determined by
the formula:

KI = 10ICa - Cb]/Cm

K2 = lo[ca - cC1/crn

K3 = lo[cb - Ccl/Cm

Where : KI = The percent of capacitance unbalance of conductor

No . 1 in relation to conductor No. 2.
K2 - The percent of capacitance unbalance of conductor
No. 2 in relation to conductor No. 3.
K3 = The percent of capacitance unbalance of conductor
No . 3 in relation to conductor No. 1.
Note: In the formula, the relative positions of Ca, Cb and Cc
may be transposed as necessary to avoid negative values.

In an identical manner, the mutual capacitance and, if

specified (see 3.1) , the capacitance unbalance of every other
transmission line shall also be measured and calculated.

(e) Specimens incorporating multiple, unshielded, insulated

conductor triad transmission lines: the mutual capacitance and,
if specified (see 3-1), the capacitance unbalance of every
transmission line shall be determined, using the same method as
used in (d), with the following change: The overall specimen
braid (if any) and all specimen conductors except the conductor
triad under test shall be comected together electrically and
considered to be the shield of the transmission line under
test.

4.8.2.4 _vation. Specimen failure shall be construed if the specimen

exhibits a mutual capacitance or unbalance which is greater than that specified (see
3.1).

●
4.8.2.5 If the characteristic impedance and/or mutual inductance test is
specified (see 3.1) , then the specimen shall be retained for use in that test.

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. . .
4.8.3 terlstzc mmedance . This test shall determine the characteristic
impedance encountered by signals propagating along completed cable and cord. ihe
mutual capacitance (see 4 .8.2) shall be calculated for each transmission line within
the completed cable or cord prior to performing the characteristic impedance test.
This is necessa~ since values of mutual capacitance are used to calculate values of
characteristic impedance.

4.8.3.1 sDe cimen. The specimen shall be that which was previously used to
determine capacitance characteristics (see 4.8.2.1).

4.8.3.2 ~eci~at~ . Apparatus shall include an instrument for measuring

inductance (such as an inductance bridge, Q meter or other instrument) which shall
support the requirements as specified in 4.8.8.3. This apparatus shall have a two
terminal measurement port, which shall use sinusoidal wave of the specified
frequency (see 3.1) for making measurements. Measurements shall be made within an
accuracy of plus or minus 1 percent.

4.8.3.3 ~. Select and perform the appropriate characteristic impedance

test method from the following:

(a) Specimens incorporating any number of individual shielded,

insulated conductor transmission lines shall be laid straight.
At one specimen end the exposed conductor of each transmission
line shall be electrically connected to the pigtail of its
associated shield by tightly twisting both together. At the
opposite specimen end, one transmission line shall be selected
for measurement, which shall then be connected to the
inductance measuring instrument. The inductance of this
transmission line shall be measured. In an identical manner,
the inductance of every other transmission line within the
specimen shall also be measured. The characteristic impedance
of each transmission line shall then be calculated by using
the following formula:

Characteristic impedance, in ohms = (105L/Cm)l/2

Where: Cm = Mutual capacitance, in picofarads per foot,

as calculated in 4.8.2.3.
L= Measured inductance, in microhenries/10 feet.

. (b) Specimens incorporating any number of individually shielded or

unshielded insulated conductor pair transmission lines shall be
laid straight. At one specimen end the two exposed insulated
conductors of each transmission line shall be laid adjacent to
each other (to minimize superfluous inductance) and
electrically connected by tightly twisting both together. At
the opposite specimen end, one transmission line shall be
selected for measurement, and its two conductors connected
electrically to the inductance measuring instrument. Its shield
(if any) shall remain disconnected. The inductance of this
transmission line shall be measured. In an identical manner,
the inductance of every other transmission line within the
specimen shall also be measured. The characteristic impedance
of each insulated conductor pair shall then be calculated by
using the formula shown in (a).

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4.8.3.4 Qbgervation . Specimen failure shall be construed if the specimen

exhibits a characteristic impedance other than that specified (see 3.1) .

4.8.4 So n d u c t o r =s i ~ . This test shall determine whether or not conductors

within the completed cable or cord are fabricated from the specified material.

4.8.4.1 EDLESWX. Conductor resistance shall be tested in accordance with AS’I?Y

B 193 and shall be corrected to 25° C.

4.8.4.2 Specimen failure shall be construed if any specimen

conductor exhibits a conductor resistance greater than that specified (see 3.1) .

4.8.5 This test shall determine the ability of completed

cable and cord to transmit d.c. without exhibiting unacceptable current flow through
insulation or jacketing material, either between conductors, or between these
conductors and any conducting substance which may be in contact with the surface of
the cable or cord during in service use. The voltage withstand test (see 4.8.8)
shall be performed prior to the insulation resistance test.

4.8.5.1 The conductor insulation resistance test shall be performed on all

conductors which have a nominal circular mil area of less than 1600; for conductors
which have a nominal circular mil area of 1600 or greater, the conductor insulation
resistance test shall be performed on conductors selected as follows:

No. of insulated conductors No. of insulated conductors

>n cable or cord Belecud for test

1 through 4 Al 1
5 through 20 4
21 through 30 5
31 through 42 6
43 through 56 7
57 through 72 8
73 through 91 9
92 through 110 10
111 through 132 11
133 through 156 12

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4.8.5.2 . The specimen shall be that which was previously used to

perform the voltage withstand test (see 4.8.8.1).

4.8.5.3 ~. Apparatus shall include the following:

(a) A megohmmeter, megohm bridge or other suitable instrument which

shall use a d.c. test voltage of not less than 200 V nor
greater than 500 V, which shall support the requirements as
specified in 4.8.5.4, and which shall make measurements within
I an accuracy of plus or minus 10 percent.
(b) Water tank (may not be required, (see 4.8.5.4(e)) which shall be
of size to contain the specimen, and which shall be suitable
for the use as specified in 4.8.5.4 (e).

● 4.8.5.4 ~. .The specimen shall be maintained at a constant temperature,

within plus or minus 3° C, for a period of not less than 5 hours immediately prior to
testing. This temperature shall be noted and shall be used to calculate F (see
formula below) when measurements are made in accordance with (a), (b) or (c). The
megohmmeter shall then be electrically connected to specimen as specified (See (a),
(b), (c) and (d)). For each connection, the test voltage from the megohmmeter shall
be continuously applied to the specimen for a period of 1 minute, plus 25 percent,
minus O percent, immediately following which the resistance reading of the
megohmmeter shall be noted. Care shall be taken during each such measurement to
assure that any electrical jumper leads connecting the specimen to the megohmmeter
shall be spaced sufficiently far from each other and from any common conducting
surface that measurement accuracy shall not be impaired.

(a) Specimens incorporating one or more individually shielded

insulated conductor transmission lines: one transmission line
shall be selected for measurement. One conductor of this
transmission line shall be electrically connected to one
terminal of the megohmmeter, and the shield and all other
conductors (if any) of this transmission line shall be
electrically connected to the other megohmmeter terminal. The
resistance measurement shall then be performed as specified.
In an identical manner, the resistance between each remaining
conductor in this transmission line (if any) and the short
circuited combination of all other conductors (if anY) # Plus
the shield in this transmission line shall be measured.

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Following this, and in an identical manner, resistance

measurements shall be made for all remaining transmission
lines within the specimen. (Additional measurements may be
required, (see (c) and (d).)
(b) Specimens incorporating multiple insulated conductors without
individual shields: one insulated conductor shall be selected
and electrically connected to one terminal of the megohmmeter.
All other specimen conductors, including the overall shield
(if any) shall be electrically connected to the other
megohmmeter terminal. The resistance measurement shall then be
I performed as specified. In a similar manner, the resistance
between each remaining conductor within the specimen and the
short circuited combination of all other conductors plus the
overall shield (if any) shall be measured. If the specimen
incorporates an overall shield, then an additional resistance
measurement shall be made between the shield and the short
circuited combination of all remaining conductors. If the
specimen does not incorporate an overall shield or
armor over the jacket the test shall be made after placing
the reel of cable in water for a period of not less than 1
hour. (Additional measurements may be required, see (d).)
(c) Specimens incorporating one or more individually shielded
insulated conductor transmission lines (these measurements
shall be required only when shield to shield measurements are
specified, see 3.1) : one shield shall be selected and
electrically connected to one terminal of the megohmmeter.
I Other specimen shields shall be electrically connected to the
other megohmmeter terminal, and the resistance measurement
shall then be performed as specified. In a similar manner, the
resistance between each remaining shield within the specimen
and the short circuited combination of all other shields shall
be measured.
(d) Specimens incorporating double overall shields: one shield
shall be electrically connected to one terminal of the
megohmmeter and the other shield shall be connected to the
other terminal. The resistance measurement shall be performed
as specified. (Additional measurements required, see (a)).
(e) Specimens incorporating single or multiple insulated
conductors without shield or armor shall be tested to water.
The specimens shall be submerged for not less than 1 hour,
except for its extreme ends (which shall rema@ exposed to
air) , in the water tank. The single conductor, or on multi
conductor cables, the conductors are to be electrically
connected to one terminal of the megohmmeter. For other
specimens, the overall outermost shield (if any) or if there
is no overall shield, the individual shields that are
outermost in the specimen core shall be electrically connected
to one terminal of the megohmmeter. The other megohmmeter
terminal shall be electrically connected to the water
surrounding the specimen (as by means of a bare metal wire
which is both connected to the megohmmeter terminal and
suspended within the water surrounding the specimen) . The
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MIL-C-24643A

resistance measurement shall be performed as specified.

The temperature of the water surrounding the specimen shall
also be measured and shall be used to determine F in the
following formula:

The lowest value of resistance measured in accordance with

each of (a), (b), (c) and (d), as applicable, shall be
I modified to include the effects of specimen length and
temperature by using the following formula:

Insulation resistance, in megohms 1000 feet - RLF/1000

Where: R = Lowest value of resistance measured in

accordance with (a), (b), (c) or (d), as
applicable, in megohms.
L = Measured specimen length, in feet; measurement
accuracy shall be within plus or minus 2
percent.
F - M ad hoc number, which shall accurately modify
the measured resistance R to that value of
resistance which would be measured if the
specimen were at a uniform temperature of
15.50C. This number shall be determined by
the specimen manufacturer via ad hoc testing
for the specific insulation or jacketing
material separating the conductors between
which the resistance measurement was made, and
shall be normalized to unity for a material
temperature of 15.5° C.

4.8.5.5 CIhservatiW. Specimen failure shall be construed if any calculated

value of insulation resistance is less than that specified (see 3.1) .

4-8.6 ~. This test shall determine the ability of shielded,

insulated conductor pairs within completed cable or cord incorporating both
shielded, insulated conductor pairs and unshielded insulated conductors to minimize
crosstalk caueed by the inductive effects of signal currents flowing in adjacent
insulated conductors.

4.8.6.1 *eCi=. The specimen shall consist of a 120 +/- 1/2 inch length of
completed cable or cord, which shall have all overall components (such as armors,
jackets or overall binders) and all shields removed from each end for a distance of
1-1/2 +/- l/O inch, except that shields may be pushed back for this distance rather
than removed. The insulation shall then be stripped from each end of each insulated
conductor for a distance of 1/2 +/- 1/8 inch, and both insulated conductors within
each shield shall be electrically connected by twisting each conductor pair tightly
together at one specimen end.
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MIL-C-24643A

I 4.8.6.2 ~. Apparatus shall include the following:

(a) A sinusoidal signal generator, which shall produce an unchanging

signal at a constant frequency of 1000 +/- 200 Hz, which shall
produce a signal current appropriate for use in the test as
specified in 4.8.6.3 (a signal current of approximately 1 A is
typically found necessa~), and the signal frequency and signal
current shall be known within an accuracy of plus or minus 2
percent.

(b) A rms indicating microvoltmeter, intended for use at the

signal generator frequency, exhibiting a signal input
impedance not less than 10,000 ohms, shall be used for the
specimen measurements as specified in 4.8.6.3, and shall
exhibit a measurement error of not more than plus or minus 6
percent.

4.fJ.6.3 J 2weW r & . One shielded, insulated conductor pair within the specimen
shall be selected, and the microvoltmeter shall be electrically connected across
this conductor pair at its unshorted end. The shield shall remain disconnected.
The signal generator shall then be electrically connected across any two unshielded,
insulated conductors at the specimen end opposite that of the microvoltmeter
connection. These same two unshielded, insulated conductors shall be connected
together electrically at the opposite specimen end (the end with the attached
microvoltmeter) by twisting their two conductors tightly together. The signal
current from the signal generator shall next be adjusted until a reasonable
indication is noted on the microvoltmeter, and both the microvoltmeter reading and
the signal current magnitude shall then be recorded. In a similar manner,
additional measurements shall be taken.such that microvoltmeter measurements are
taken for each shielded, insulated conductor pair as the signal generator is
sequentially reconnected to circulate signal current in each possible pairing of
unshielded, insulated conductors. (Examples: cable type LSMCOS-5 shall require
three measurements, since it incorporates one shielded, insulated conductor pair
plus three unshielded insulated conductors, cable type LSMCOS-6 shall require two
measurements, since it incorporates two shielded, insulated conductor pairs plus two
unshielded, insulated conductors.) The mutual inductance represented by each
measurement shall then be calculated by using the following formula:

Mutual inductance, in microhenries = V/2 3.14159 fI

Where: V = Measured potential between two shielded,

insulated conductors, in microvolt.
f = Signal frequency, in Hz.
I = Measured signal current, in A.

4.8.6.4 Qbser vation. Specimen failure shall be construed if any calculated

value of mutual inductance is greater than that specified (see 3.1) .

4.8.7 Pulse resu onse time. This test shall determine the ability of completed
cable or cord which incorporates one or more shielded, insulated conductor pairs for
pulse data transmission to propagate a square wave signal without causing
unacceptable signal distortion.

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MIL-C-24643A

* 4.8.7.1 sDe ” 3 r QGn . The specimen shall consist of a piece of completed cable or
cord, which shall have a length of not less than 200 feet. Individual transmission
lines within this specimen (where each insulated conductor pair plus surrounding
shield is considered to be a transmission line) shall be selected for testing as
follows:

(a) Specimens containing four or fewer transmission lines: every

transmission line shall be tested.
(b) Specimens containing more than four but fewer than 21
transmission lines: Four different transmission lines shall
be tested. Not fewer than one of these transmission lines
shall be selected from each concentric cabling layer within
the specimen.
(c) Specimens containing 21 or more transmission lines: the
number of transmission lines tested shall be equal to the
square root (rounded, if necessary, to the nearest whole
number) of the total number of transmission lines. Not fewer
than one of these transmission lines shall be selected from
each concentric cabling layer within the specimen.

4.8.7.2 sQec ial aDD aratuq. Apparatus shall include the following:

(a) Pulse generator: a signal generator which shall produce uniform

square wave voltage pulses at a constant rate of repetition,
and which shall be used for the specimen measurements as
specified in 4.8.7.3. The pulses produced by this generator
shall each exhibit a 10 to 90 percent voltage rise time of not
more than 50 nanoseconds, a 90 to 10 percent voltage decay
time of not more than 50 nanoseconds, and a pulse width of not
less than 2 microseconds.
(b) Oscilloscope: a dual beam oscilloscope shall have a band width
of not less than 10 megahertz, and a time base capable of
producing a horizontal beam sweep rate of not slower than 0.1
milliseconds (ins)per centimeter. This oscilloscope shall
have provision for a high impedance, balanced or differential
input on both signal channels, and shall be used fOr the
specimen measurements as specified in 4.8.7.3
(c) Pulse transformers: two, winding transformers, each of which
shall provide essentially distortion free transmission of the
voltage pulses from the pulse generator, and shall be used for
the specimen measurements as specified in 4.8.7.3. One of the
pulse transformers (the ~inputw pulse transformer, see figure
18) shall have a primary winding impedance equal to the
nominal signal terminal impedance of the pulse generator; the
secondary winding of this transformer shall be centertapped,
and shall have an impedance equal to the specified impedance
of the specimen (see 3.1) . The other pulse transformer (the
“output” pulse transformer, see figure 18) shall have a
primary winding which shall be centertapped, and shall have an
impedance equal to the specified impedance of the specimen
(see 3.1); the secondaw winding impedance of this transformer
shall equal the nominal resistance of the matching resistor
(see (d)).

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MIL-C-24643A

(d) Matching resistor: an electrical resistor, shall be essentially

noninductive in construction (such as a carbon type resistor) ,
I which shall have a power rating appropriate for its intended
use (see 4.EI.7.3), and shall exhibit an electrical resistance
appropriate for use with the output pulse transformer (see
.
(CJ)

4.8.7.3 Procedu r~. The test apparatus shall be electrically interconnected as

shown on figure 18, one of the selected transmission lines shall be comected as
shown. The connections between this transmission line and the pulse transformers
shall be as short as practicable. In addition, both connecting cables between the
,
transmission line and the oscilloscope shall be of identical length and constmction
and shall not be longer than 5 feet each in order to minimize pulse distortion. The
pulse generator shall then be turned on, and both signal channels on the
oscilloscope shall be adjusted such that the pulse waveform displayed by each on the
oscilloscope screen shall be of the same height. The horizontal beam sweep rate of
the oscilloscope shall then be increased, if necessary and the time required for the
leading edge of each signal channel pulse to rise from 10 to 90 percent of its final
value shall be measured as shown on figure 19. The rise time of the transmission
line shall then be calculated by using the following formula:
Rise time, in ms per 500 feet = 500 (Yr2 - Xr2) 1/2/L

Where: Xr = Measured rise time from signal channel number one,

in microseconds.
Yr = Measured rise time from signal channel number two,
in microseconds.
L = Measured specimen length, in feet; measurement
accuracy shall be within plus or minus 1 percent.

Following this, the time required for the trailing edge of each signal channel pulse
to decay from 90 to 10 percent of its initial value shall be measured as shown on
figure 20. The decay time of the transmission line shall then be calculated by
using the following formula:

Decay time, in mS per 500 feet = 500(Yd2 - xd2) 1/2/L

Where: Xd = Measured decay time from signal channel number

one, in microseconds.
Yd = Measured decay time frOm Signal chaMel number
two, in microseconds.
L . Measured specimen length, in feet: measurement
accuracy shall be within plus or minus 1 percent.

In an identical manner, the remaining selected transmission lines shall also be

tested.

4.8.7.4 ervatio n. Specimen failure shall be construed if any transmission

line exhibits either a rise time or a decay time which is greater than that
specified (see 3.1) .
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MIL-C-24643A

4.8.8 ae This test shall determine the ability of completed

cable and cord to withstand overvoltages without exhibiting electrical discharge
through insulation or jacketing material, either between conductors, or between
I these conductors and any conducting material which may be in contact with the
surface of the cable or cord during in service use.

* 4.8.8.1 The specimen shall consist of a unit of product as specified

in 6.6.1.1.

●
4.8.8.2 Apparatus shall include the following:

(a) IMI adjustable voltage source, which shall be in accordance with

either of the following, as appropriate (see 3.1) .

(1) An AC. voltage source which shall produce a single phase,

approximately sinusoidal voltage under all test
conditions, which shall have a frequency of not more than
100 Hz, and which can be adjusted to the specified rms
magnitude (see 3.1) . This source shall have the capacity
to provide an effective power of not less than 5 kVA, and
shall incorporate an overload relay which shall reduce
the source voltage to zero whenever an applied load (that
is, the specimen, see 4.8.8.3) attempts to draw
electrical current to exceed this effective power
capacity.
(2) A source of d.c. voltage which can be adjusted to the
specified magnitude (see 3.1), and which shall have the
capacity to provide an electrical current of not less
than 1/4 A. This source shall incorporate an overload
relay which shall reduce the source voltage to zero
whenever an applied load (that is, the specimen, see
4.8.8.3) attempts to draw electrical current to exceed
this current capacity.

(b) When required, a water tank, which shall be filled with water
and shall be of sufficient size to contain the specimen,
shall be used as specified in 4.8.8.3(d) and 4.8.8.3(e) (may
not be required, see 4.EI.8.3(d) and 4.8.8.3(e)).

●
4.8.8.3 X2 J XAMR . The voltage source shall be electrically connected to the
specimen as specified (see (a), (b), (I=), (d) and (e)). For each connection, the
test voltage from the voltage source shall be increased, in a uniform manner, from O
v to the specified voltage (see 3.1) during a period of not more than 60 seconds nor
less than 10 seconds, except that specified voltages of less than 600 v may be
applied instantaneously. (This gradual voltage application is generally necessary
to prevent a current on rush, and the consequent tripping of the voltage source
overload relay caused by specimen capacitance. ) This specified voltage shall then
be maintained for a period of 1 plus 1/2, minus O minute (unless the voltage source
overload relay trips, see 4.8.8.4), following which the test voltage shall be
reduced to zero at approximately the same rate as which it was applied.
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MIL-C-24643A

(a) Conductor to Shield. Specimens incorporating one or more

individually shielded, insulated conductor transmission lines: one
transmission line shall be selected for measurement. One conductor
of this transmission line shall be electrically connected to one
terminal of the voltage source, and the shield and all other
conductor(s) (if any) of this transmission line shall be
electrically connected to the other voltage source terminal. The
voltage withstand test shall then be performed as specified. In a
similar manner, the voltage withstand test shall be performed
between each remaining conductor in this transmission line (if
any) and the short circuited combination of all other conductors
(if any) Plus the shield in this transmission line. Following
this, and in an identical manner, the voltage withstand test shall
be performed on all remaining transmission lines with the
specimen. (Additional measurements may be required, see (c) and (d).)
(b) Conductor to Overall Jackets. Specimens incorporating multiple
insulated conductors without individual shields: one insulated
conductor shall be selected and electrically comected to one
terminal of the voltage source. Other specimen conductors,
including the overall shield (if any) shall be electrically
connected to the other voltage source terminal. The voltage
withstand test shall then be performed as specified. In a similar
manner, the voltage withstand test shall be performed between each
remaining conductor within the specimen and the short circuited
combination of all other conductors plus the overall shield (if
any) . If the specimen incorporates an overall shield, then the
voltage withstand test shall additionally be performed between the
shield and the short circuited combination of all remaining
conductors. (Additional measurements may be rewired, see (d).)
(c) Shield to Shield. Specimens incorporating one or more
individually shielded insulated conductor transmission lines
(these measurements shall be required only when shield to shield
measurements are specified, see 3.1) : one shield shall be selected
and electrically connected to one terminal of the voltage source.
Other specimen shields shall be electrically connected to the
other voltage source terminal, and the voltage withstand test
shall then be performed as specified. In a similar manner, the
voltage withstand test shall be performed between each remaining
shield within the specimen and the short circuited combination of
all other shields.
(d) Jackets. All specimens (these measurements shall be required only
when measurements to water or to ground are specified, see 3.1) :
the specimen shall be submerged, except for its extreme ends
(which shall remain exposed to the air), in the water tank for a
period of not less than 1 hour. Following this, and while the
specimen is still submerged, the specimen shall be tested as
follows. The overall specimen shield (if anY) , or if there is no
overall shield, all individual shields which are outermost in the
specimen core plus all unshielded conductors which are outermost
in the specimen core, shall be electrically connected to one
terminal of the voltage source. The other voltage source terminal
shall be electrically connected to the water surrounding the
specimen (as by means of a bare metal wire which is both connected
to the voltage source terminal and suspended within the water
surrounding the specimen) . The voltage withstand test shall then
be performed as specified.

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MIL-C-24643A

(e) Conductor to Conductor. Specimens incorporating single or

multiple insulated conductors without shield or armor shall be
tested to water. The specimen shall be submerged, except for its
extreme ends (which shall remain exposed to the air) , in the water
tank for a period of not less than I hour. While the specimen is
still submerged, the speci~en shall be teszed as follows. For
single conductors, the conductor shall be electrically connected
to one terminal of the voltage source. The other voltage source
terminal shall be electrically connected to the water surrounding
the specimen (as by means of a bare metal wire which is both
connected to the voltage source terminal and suspended within the
water surrounding the specimen) . For multiple conductor cables or
cords, one insulated conductor shall be selected and electrically
connected to one terminal of the voltage source. Other specimen
conductors, shall be electrically connected to the other voltage
source terminal, The voltage withstand test shall then be
performed sequentially on each conductor as specified.

4.8.8.4 Obs~rva~. Specimen failure shall be construed if the voltage source

overload relay trips prior to removal of the test voltage from any specimen
connection. If the insulation resistance test is specified (see 3.1), then the
specimen shall be retained for use in that test.

4.8.9 Jacket flaw~ . One hundred percent of all finished cables with overall
shields shall be passed through a chain electrode spark test device using 3.o kv rms
(minimum) and a frequency of 50 or 60 Hz. The conductor, or shield as applicable,
shall be grounded at one or both ends. The electrode shall be of a suitable bead
chain or fine mesh construction that will give intimate metallic contact with
practically all the insulation surface: Electrode length and speed of specimen
movement shall be such that the insulation is subjected to the test voltage for a
minimum of 0.2 second.

4.8.9.1 =va~~. Specimen failure shall be construed if jacket material

exhibits any sign of deformation or damage.

4.8.10 One hundred percent of all finished

cable shall be tested for continuity prior to shipment. To establish continuity,
not more than 25 volts d.c. shall be applied across each conductor and shield of the
cable through an appropriate indicator, such as an ohmmeter, light or buzzer. The
t“est voltage may be applied to conductors and shields individually or in series.

4.8.10.1 . Specimen failure shall be construed if the specimen

exhibits an open electrical circuit.

● 4.8.11 The surface transfer impedance

characteristics of the overall cable shield of finished cable shall be tested in
accordance with NEMA WC-61, and as specified in 4.8.11.1. The electromagnetic pulse
(EMP) response of the cable shield shall be determined in accordance with 4.8.11.2.

* 4.8.11.1 Cable samDle DreDarat ion. The individual shields of shielded

components, when present, shall be connected to the conductors and the connected
conductors and shields shall be the conductor as specified in NEMA WC-61.

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MIL-C-24643A

* 4.8.11.2 . The surface transfer impedance

determined as specified shall be known over the frequency range d.c. to 100 MHz. Zt
shall be assumed constant in the frequency range d.c. to 0.1 MHz. The EMP response
in ~ shall be determined as follows:

1 x 108

I EMP response = (-165) - 10 log I [Zt (f)12df

I o (U2 + fz) (pz + fz)
(dB)

Where: Zt(f) = surface transfer impedance at frequency f (f2/m)

a =2.39X 105
P- 4.12 X 107
f = frequency (Hz)
df = decade of frequency

The integral expression may be approximated by a summation if at least 100 points

per decade of frequency are used.

4 .8.11.3 Specimen failure shall be construed if the surface

transfer impedance is greater than specified (see 3.1) or if the calculated EMP
response of the overall cable shield is less than specified (see 3.1) .

4.9 JnsDec~ainq- Sample packages and packs, and the inspection of

the preservation packaging, packing and marking for shipment and storage shall be in
accordance with the requirements of section 5 and the documents specified therein.

5. PACKAGING

(the preparation for delivexy requirements specified herein apply only for direct
Government acquisition. For the extent of applicability of the preparation for
delivery requirements of referenced documents listed in section 2, see 6.5.)

5.1 ShiDment of cables. Cables covered by this specification shall be shipped

on reels, unless otherwise specified on the specification sheet.

5.1.1 J?eeQ. Reels shall be of a design, strongly constructed, with flanges of

sufficient diameter to protect the cable from injury during handling and storage.
Where the gross weight of cable and reel exceed 1000 pounds, the reels shall have
metal hubs. The diameter of the drum shall be not less than 14 times the overall
diameter of the cable.

5.1.1.1 ~. The cable on each reel shall be one

continuous length and shall have both ends readily available for testing without re-
reeling. The inner end shall extend through a hole in the flange near the drum and
the outer end shall be available at the top of the reel. Both ends of the cable
shall be secured to reel flange with l/4-inch rope, applied with two half-hitches,
one 6 inches and the other 4 inches (approximately) back of the end seal, then
twisting the rope ends together, knotting them, pulling the cable up tight and
stapling the rope to the flange with at least two 1-1/2 inch staples driven into the
flange. The inner end which extends through the flange hole shall be protected by a
metal end cover.

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MIL-C-24643A

5.1.1.2 ~au~. Lagging shall be used on reels having flange diameters of 42

inches and larger and on all reels which contain 1000 pounds or more of cable.
Reels smaller than 42 inches in diameter which contain less than 1000 pounds of
cable may be covered in accordance with 5.1.1.3. Lagging boards shall have a
thickness equal to the thickness of the reel flange but not greater than 2 inch
commercial number. Lagging for all reels shall extend to within 1/4 inch of the
outside of the flanges. Lagging boards shall be installed so that they are touching
adjacent boards. Lagging which rest entirely on the rim of the flange shall be
nailed with cement-coated nails. Lagging which is notched and recessed may be
secured by the use of stapling only. In addition to nailed lagging or for notched
and recessed lagging on reels of cable weighing 1000 pounds or more and having a
flange diameter less than 78 inches, two 0.162 +/- 0.003 inch (8-gage) high-tensile
round steel wires or two 3/4 by 0.035 inch steel straps shall be used. For reels
having a flange diameter of 78 inches or mare two 1-1/4 by 0.035 inch steel straps
shall be used. In addition to nailed lagging or for notched and recessed lagging on
reels of cable weighing less than 1000 pounds, two 0.0915 +/- 0.003 inch (13-ga9e)
high-tensile round steel wires or two 5/8 by O.O2O inch steel straps shall be used.
Straps shall be stapled at approximately 15-inch intervals. A minimum clearance of
2 inches shall be provided between inner face of lagging and outer layer of cable.

5.1.1.3 Alternat ive to laaciinq. AS an alternative to lagging for reels having a

flange diameter smaller than 42 inches and containing less than 1000 pounds of
cable, a covering may be used which consists of the following:

(a) A cushioning imer layer of asphalt-impregnated, corrugated,

fiberboard, or the equivalent, wrapped to give 100 percent
coverage.
(b) An outer covering consisting of two layers of weather
resistant veneer paper in accordance with PPP-V-205 or two
layers of three ply weather resistant toxic treated plywood
wrapped to give 100 percent coverage.

This covering shall be secured in place between the reel flanges by at least two 3/0
by 0.020 inch steel straps.

●
5.1.1.4 In addition to any other required marking, reels shall be
marked with a keyed series of colors to indicate the year of manufacture. The cycle
of colors shall be repeated every fifth year. The reel marking shall consist of a
stripe of one coat of commercial quality outside paint approximately 2 inches wide,
colored to designate the particular year of manufacture as follows:

X-r of ~
1981 1986 1991 1996 Red
1982 1987 1992 1997 Green
1983 1988 1993 1998 Orange
1984 1989 1994 1999 Blue
1985 1990 1995 2000 White

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MIL-C-24643A

5.1.1.4.1 The colored stripe on reels shall be

applied circumferentially over the lagging or the alternative to lagging and midway
between the flanges. The stripe shall consist of one coat of commercial quality
outside paint of the appropriate color. In addition to the stripe, both flanges of
the reel shall be stenciled with 4 inch high figures to show the year of
manufacture.

●
5.1.1.5 Standard ree 1 markinc?~. Each reel shall be plainly marked on both
flanges with the following information:

(a) Reel number.

(b) Type and size of cable.
(c) Footage.
(d) Contract or order number
(e) Contractor’s name.
(f) Manufacturer’s name (if other than contractor)
(g) Gross weight.
(h) One continuous length on the reel indicated in feet

5.1.2 Coils. Coils shall contain one continuous length of cable or cord
(standard length, see table XXII).

TABLE XXII le or cord len~

Remnant
lengths
Price reduction
me Nominal Standard Random Scrap
of length lengths lengths lengths
package (feet) No price No price Not
reduccion Reduction 5 percent 10 percent accept-
(feet) (feet) (feet) (feet) able
(feet)
Coil 500 550 to 450 449 to 150 149 to 100 99 to 50 49 to o
Coil 600 660 to 540 539 to 180 179 to 120 119 to 60 59 to o
Reel 500 550 to 450 449 to 150 149 to 100 99 to 50 49 to o
Ree 1 800 880 to 720 719 to 240 239 to 160 159 to 80 79 to o
Reel 1000 1100 to 900 899 to 300 299 to 200 199 to 100 99 to o
Reel 1500 1650 to 1350 1349 to 450 449 to 300 299 to 150 149 to o
Reel 2000 2200 to 1s00 1799 to 600 599 to 400 399 to 200 199 to o
Reel 2500 2750 to 2250 2249 to 750 749 to 500 499 to 250 249 to O
Reel 3000 3300 to 2700 2699 tO 900 899 to 600 599 to 300 299 to O

5.1.2.1 Year mar-. In addition to any other required marking, coils shall be
marked with a keyed series of colors to indicate the year of manufacture. This
marking shall consist of a stripe approximately 2 inches wide and colored for the
particular year of manufacture. The cycle of colors shall be the same as those used
for year marking on reels (see 5.1.1.4) .

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MIS.J-C-24643A

5.1.2.2 . Two shipping tags shall be securely attached to each

coil, both inside and outside the wrapping, and marked with the following
information.

(a) me and size of cable or cord.

(b) Footage.
(c) Contract or order number.
(d) Contractor’s name.
(e) Manufacturer’s name (if other than contractor) .
(f) Gross weight.

5.2 Packaa incrand DaCk inq. Cable and cord shall be packaged and packed level A,
B, or C in accordance with MIL-C-12000, as specified (see 6.2.1) . Cables shall have
both ends of each shipping length sealed to-prevent the entrance of moisture.
Materials used and method of application shall be that specified for tape wrapped
end seals in accordance with MIL-C-12000. Marking shall be in accordance with MIL-
C-12000 and with the requirements specified herein or as specified in acquisition
document (see 6.2.1). All markings shall conform to MIL-STD-129.

6. NOTES

6.1 ~. Cables and cords specified herein are intended for use in
various applications involving naval ships and shore stations.

6.2 f)rderina data.

. . .
6.2.1 w~lslt~re ment~. Acquisition documents shall specify the
following:

(a) Title, number, and date of this specification.

(b) Military part number (see 6.7).
(c) me and size of cable or cord required wjth reference to
applicable specification sheet (see 3.1) .
(d) Level of packaging and packing required (see 5.2) .
(e) Special marking required (see 5.2) .
(f) Quantity required (see 6.2.3).

6.2.2 Data r-re menu. The following Data Item Descriptions (DID’s) must be
listed, as applicable, on the Contract Data Requirements List (DD Form 1423) when
this specification is applied on a contract, in order to obtain the data, except
where DOD FAR Supplement 27.475-1 exempts the requirement for a DD Form 1423.

&ta ~t ti~ le DID no ~ Q&&Q

3.3.16 Certification/data report UDI-A-23264 ------

4.3.3 Inspection system program DI-R-4803 ----- -
plan
4.3, 4.4, 4.6.3 Reports/test DI-T-2072 Io.1.b

95
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MIL-C-24643A

(Data item descriptions related to this specification, and identified in section

6 will be approved and listed as such in DoD 5000.19L. , Vol. II, AMSDL. Copies of
data item descriptions required by the contractors in connection with specific
acquisition functions should be obtained from the Naval Publications and Forms
Center or as directed by the contracting officer.)

6.2.2.1 The data requirements of 6.2.2 and any task in sections 3, 4, or 5 of

this specification required to be performed to meet a data requirement may be waived
by the contracting/acquisition activity upon certification by the offeror that
identical data was submitted by the offeror and accepted by the Government under a
previous contract for identical item acquired to this specification. This does not
apply to specific data which may be required for each contract regardless of whether
an identical item has been supplied previously (for example, test reports) .

●
6.2.2.2 ed test ren~. The contractor shall prepare test reports in
accordance with the data ordering document (see 6.2.2) . The test report shall
contain the following information:

(a) Manufacturer’s QPL number and date or serial number and date of
NAVSEA letter of approval.
(b) A statement to the effect that the product was constructed from
materials listed on the manufacturer’s approved details of
construction sheet.
(c) A statement that the product meets all of the requirements of this
specification.
(d) Results of all quality conformance tests showing actual values
obtained.
(e) Year and month cable or cord was manufactured.
(f) Serial numbers of the marker tape taken from each end of each
length of cable or cord.
(g) Customer’s name and contract or order number.
(h) A statement that the product contains no metallic mercury or
mercury compounds and are free from mercury contamination.
(i) The serial number of all NAVSEA letters approving deviations from
the approved specification slash sheets.

6.2.2.3 ~. Records of tests shall be kept and copies

of the applicable records shall become a part of the test report for the finished
cable or cord.

6.2.3 The quantity of each type and size on a contract or order

should be specified as an integral multiple of the unit ordering length shown by the
specification sheet.

6.2.4 LmWza. The range of standard, random, remnant and scrap lengths for
each nominal length is shown in table XXII. In order to compensate for handling and
probable loss on issue, remnant lengths are subject to the price reductions
specified in table XXII. Scrap lengths are not acceptable. It is not intended that
items being acquired in exact lengths for a specific job or ship shall necessarily
be shipped in lengths which are integral multiples of the unit ordering length or
that price reductions shall apply in the event that exact footages or fractional
lengths are required and so indicated in acquisition of cable or cord other than
stock purposes.

6.3 %ecial claw. Except when small quantities are to be purchased,

invitations for bid and contracts or orders should specify the following:

96
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MIL-C-24643A

“In order to compensate for handling and probable loss in issue, remnant lengths
shall be subject to the price reductions specified in table XXII. In order that the
number of lengths be kept to a minimum consistent with good manufacturing practices,
for each type and size of cable or cord on the contract or order, not less than 70
percent of the total footage to be shipped shall be in standard lengths, and not
more than 30 percent may be in any combination of random and remnant lengths. When
the total quantity of any one item is six nominal lengths or less, a footage
approximately two nominal lengths (in lieu of 30 percent) may be in any combination
of random and remnant lengths. When the total quantity of any one item is two
nominal lengths or less, the total footage may be in any combination of random
lengths. ”

6.4 With respect to products requiring qualification, awards will be made only
for products which are, at the time set for opening of bide, qualified for inclusion
in Qualified Products List QPL-24643 whether or not such products have actually been
so listed by that date. The attention of the contractors is called to these
requirements, and manufacturers are urged to arrange to have the products that they
propose to offer to the Federal Government tested for qualification in order that
they may be eligible to be awarded contracts or purchase orders for the products
covered by this specification. The activity responsible for the Qualified Products
List is the Naval Sea Systems Command, SEA 5523, Department of the Navy, Washington,
DC 20362 and information pertaining to qualification of products may be obtained
from the activity. Application for Qualification tests shall be made in accordance
with “Provisions Governing Qualification SD-6” (see 6.4.1) .

6.4.1 Copies of l,provlslons Governing Qualification SD-6” may be obtained uPon

application to DODSSP - Customer Service, Standardization Document Order Desk, 700
Robbins Avenue, Bldg. 4D, Philadelphia, PA 19111-5094

6.5 sub-cwapt”d ~. The preparation for delivery

requirements of referenced documents listed in section 2 do not apply when material
and parts are acquired by the contractor for incorporation into the equipment and
lose their separate identity when the equipment is shipped.

6.6 For the purpose of the quality conformance

inspection, the sampling terms specified in 6.6.1 through 6.6.4 shall apply.

6.6.1 tit A unit of product is the unit ordering length as

specified on the specification sheet, except that when the unit ordering length is
500 feet, two such lengths shall constitute a unit of product. Random and remnant
lengths or special order lengths may be added together to equal a unit ordering
length. Length tolerances as given for standard lengths shall apply (see 6.2.3) .

● 6.6.1.1 For basic electrical test purposes (see Table XIV) a unit of product
shall be defined as an electrically continuous splice free length. This is to allow
for longer production lengths to be tested electrically prior to preparation for
shipment.

97
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MIL-C-24643A

●
6.6.1.2 Lengths longer than the unit ordering lengths (see 3.1) may be supplied
when the purchaser and manufacturer agree. These lengths shall be as specified in
6.6.1.1.

6.6.2 ~. A sample is one unit of product selected from an inspection lot.

6.6.3 A specimen is an individual length of cable or an individual

length of a part of cable which has been taken from a sample.

6.6.4 Def~cxive A defective unit is a unit of product from which a

specimen that failed to meet one or more requirements was taken.

● 6.7 Part JIUmbQx or The part number shall be a

combination of numbers and letter in accordance with the following:
-M
-L- ZLIZY
Military Specification Specification Dash number A=Armored O=Werall
designation Number Sheet number (See Specifi- U=Unarmored D=Double
cation sheets) overall
shielded
N=Not
shielded

6.8

a. Armor
b. Waterblock
c. Halogen content
d. Smoke Index
e. Flame Propagation
f. Toxicity Index

NOTE : The margins of this specification are marked with asterisks to indicate where
changes (additions, modifications, corrections, deletions) from the previous issue
were made. This was done as a convenience only and the Government assumes no
liability whatsoever for any inaccuracies in these notations. Bidders and
contractors are cautioned to evaluate the requirements of this document based on the
entire content irrespective of the marginal notations and relationship to the last
previous issue.

Custodians: Preparing Activity:

Army - MI Navy - SH
Navy - SH

Review Activities: Agent :

Army - AV, CR, ER, ME, AR, AL DLA- IS
Navy - EC, CG
DLA - 1S (Project No. 6145-2057)
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MIL-C-24643A

[“ -q

W 13051

FIGURE 1.

99
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MIL-C-24643A

/.’\\
,,9:,;87 /-2

‘) 7
TW[~RMALLy
W I PEROh I
CYL I NDER~ J
I LA I CH I NGRD_AY

CLAMP TO HOLD

SPEC
ii

f%’ )
wElcd-’
1 N+/- ,502

SH 1 3 1 3 6 2
L&_ . !

FIGURE 2. piauram of abradlna machine for thE

abr=lo n resistance test

;;;:;; CENT ERL I NE W I TH

T O BE TANGENT I AL
~ , - - =_ CYL I NDERSURF ACE + / - 0 . D0 3lNOi~S

Z7XT-=-CYLNOER
M ( N I MUM
SURF ACE ~

SH 1 2 7 4 1

FIGURE 3. Petail dia=a m of

100
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MIL-C-24643A

/- FUS [ ( OR OV I RLOADRE LAY )

.

[1 I Ill
GROUND A~AO i -
M [ NT FOR ARMOR I D
3 PHASE

Vd ?A[ !
C(I lDP~

d;~;;.

I i <11> 11~

Tr” I 4 -,,
8 II I ID
=~’~

E; ‘y’‘.~
3 P I - I AS [ SPEC l kN

6 0 HZO A
y l &y l BUWAR

o
AUTO
A
J CURRENT
X FMR X FMR I NDUCT I VE - P I CKUP
T ESTCURRENT ME T ER

FIGURE 4. WD~Uation of test voltaae and test cu~llt fox

accelerated service test ~
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MXL-C-24643A

I
I
8-1/ ’2 lJ+\-1/’2
/ , / ; &<
PORT I ONOF F L EX I NG
MACH I NEARM 903+5 II 9CP+ 5
-o -o P I VOT I NG
AX I SO f
I!l F L EX I NGMACH I NEARM

1 IN o 1 > h
L J —= ——
M I N I MUM

‘ “J- L <’ 1
SPEC I MEN( VW TO CORD D I A+ \ - 1 0%
[LLXINC MACHIN[ ARM I

7 lN+\-1 ROLLERS UPPER ROLLERS

4 -
l/81N +\- 1/32
WHEN F L EX I NGARM I S
LOWER STRA I GHTU P
/ ROL L ERS
1
l “~
3/8 IN 3 8 1N
M I N I MUM h N I MUM

l / 8 1N+ \ - 1 / 3 2
5 , :
WHEN FLEXING MACHINE ARM
I SSTRA I GHTU P
SPEC I MEN

M I N I MUM

T
SH 1 3 0 5 5
CL - - WE I GHT

FIGURE 5. piaaram of flexina marhine for the bendinq

-endurance test .

102
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MIL-C-24643A

r’
/’ (1
.——.
_____
T- ROPE
FOUR TIMES fJJERALL spEc,M[fi
SHEAVE
D I RECT I ON D I AME T ER( SE E 3 , 1) ,MAX I MUM
OF PUL L—

SH 1 3 0 5 6

FIGURE 6. uram of bendina

~“~

- BEND I NG SURF AC [

HI
T
11 TO 13 TIMES OVERAL:
— SP~lMEN DIAMETER (SEE 3,1)
AX!5

J
SH 1 3 0 5 7 II

FIGURE 7. J3dqe view of either sheaVP for the bendina aD~

Qf the cold workinq (minus 2 QO~

103
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MIL-C-24643A

h————— A Y
Ik F I AM I L ENCTH ~[
r ——— —— .
I
I

MAL E P I PETHREAd
I

I Fo~)mh,er PHYSkX DIMEMSICNS

A- B c D e Po p e
K!con n
Lenqtm I
flOfTt Lerqlh piuS3/4’ 2’ 1-3/16’ 1’ 1’
L 24”

FIGURE 8. 5tvle X tU12ular brass ma nifold for aas flame r~st .

h4Ddifled
Zero-f’ressure
GovernorOptional

/
-j for Gos Pressure Control
\

()’J
Nohro! or
Ar-Gos
Plopone Gos
Mllrel Sources

u“ Woler Manomeler
Supp~ Side A

Compressedov
Woler (oil-free ond dry)
k40nometer
Air inlet B h reqdotor
ond volve

FIGURE 9. tic drawina of aDDaratus for uas flame tm

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MIL-C-24643A

Monometer
Pofls
8-32 Nu! ScIdcred
Ill R-s? Std //j! “ \\
C.o?lm
out
Vowe
=..0 3 \

6-32 Nut Soldered ● ‘\ ‘*

.
to Gxer Plo[e
. ;Q” I ,
)
. Spring (hJIprox.Dimensions)
\/,n
O.D..200 Inch
be
7 ~fee Len@h 1 Inch
> “ 0,,, ,Mh
Cwer WireSize .01B Inch
S t I1 2 7 4 6 Pble 12 Turns
Lost Turn Formed to o Point

FIGURE 10. Lktaal vern or

drawina of zero Dressure Cfo
!,
modlflcat~

/ FUSE ( OR OVERLOADREWY )

w-o-“TESTV’LT
o \
I /{b

I SPEC I MEN
I
o
.— —— — J

AUTO - GROUND A t t a c hme n tFOR

TRANS - ST i ” P - ARMOREO CABL ESONLY
FORMER UP –
TRANS FORMER
( I FNE EDED )
SH 1 2 7 4 7

FIGURE 11. WD~ication of test volta~ for the uas flaw

~e~t.

105
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MIL-C-24643A

~ FIXIDSW ’ P1 3V
\ /- I?OTATING, M9TOi?-DRIVIN
‘\,, DRUM, WH I CH R I ( [ RSES
D I RECT I ON
T O PRODUCE
& THE SPEC I F i EDREC I PROCAT E
e
SPECIMIN _

RICIPROCAIING TAPE
MOTION OF 10“

1~ 1/2 POUND +/- 1/64, -O

WEIGHT

SH 1 3 0 6 2

.,
Figure 12. piaara m of tvolcal ~dina machine for the
~e nducto r insulation)
of Drint ina (L20
Jest.

106
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MIL-C-24643A

MOTOR - DR I VEN
ROTAT I NGDRUM ’ = ARM , P I VOT ED ON DRUM AND WE I GHT ED
T o A s s JR I A l - Po uND+ l / 1 6 , - o
m. ,/ FORCLOK SPEC I MEN

AUTOMATIC
COUNTER
-“”’”
Y l-----t- RKIPROCATINC ROD MOTIONOF
3/B”+ 1/16,-0
./ ST E E LROD W I TH
DIAO . F 0 . 0 2 5 ( ’ + / 0- . 0 0 1

SH 1 3 0 6 3

FIGURE 13. Diaara m of &adlna macwe for the Dermanenc~

., test .
9f D= lna (iacket)

107
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,-
MIL-C-24643A

TO VALVE FOR
1 ~ TO SOURCE o f
BL E ED OF F A I R PRESSUR I Z EDWAT ER
AA
‘11~1 I

h)
JL—_Jl-
-7 APERTURE FOR
,, I NTRODUC I NGTHE
1
MAX I MUM BE TWE EN - ? [ I - ! AROEN ISEALANT
NG
r ——n I
SPEC I M I NEND F ACE L
AND SEALANTSURF ACE ~ – ~ =-= .—
~ ~_ —
: _. ~—~w
. .
—-— .— - i > T ERM I NALF I T I NG
6“ -—. — -
1- --i
MAX I MUM SEALANTHE I GHT — - — - — - —
HARDEN I NGSEALANT
1 - -—- —-
~ -—-—-
—1
LL SPEC ! -
L j s1 / 2 ”

PR I ORTO

SH 1 3 0 6 4

,.
FIGURE 14. Diauram of terminal flttlna, ~wina
deta ils. for rhe wate rtiuhtness test .

108
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MIL-C-24643A

i
r~_
AIR
SUPPLY TEMPERATURE
CONTROLLER

SH 12742

FIGURE 15. ~id qas test aDD~

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MIL-C-24643A

l-----=
G[N~RAT~~

S !N : L [ CON9 J C : OP P :U5SURROL JND ! NC

SH , E LDW I TH I NSPEC I MEN O ,R
AN ADAPT ERCONNECTOR ,OR A
D I RECTCONNECT I ONAS ,
SPEC I F I EDSE E 4 . & l . 3 )
m( m
I ) )
i mp e d a n c e - \ r
_.
—1
i MPEDANCE -
MATCH I NG MATCH I NG n FIXED
F I XED n TRANSFORMER
nl
-I* TjFl~SrORMER Attenuator
ATTENUATOR NOT ll——___— J
It EQU I RED ) FQU I RFD )

SH 1 3 0 6 5

FIGURE 16. Plock diau ram of elect rlca 1 connections for t hg

attenuat Ion test when testl na a slnale conducm
Plus surround 1nu shield.

110
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MIL-C-24643A

S I GNA
. GENERATO ,

CONDUCTOR PA I RPLUS
)
SH I E LDW I TH I NSPEC I MEN ,
I AN ADAPT ERCONNECTOR ,
C; :mi ?; ; [
D I RECTCONNECT I ON ,
DE J ECTO
AT T F hUATO ,

) r )
I

F I XE F I XE
n n
AT I ENUATO 4 AT T ENUATO
I MPEDANCE L_ . ——d I MPEDANCE
MATCH I N MATCH I N
TRANS FORM TRANS FORM
1 I I I

FIGURE 17. ck dia~ of ele~ connections for the

surroundi~a shields

111
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MIL-C-24643A

CONDUCTOR PA I RPLUS SURROUND I NG

SH I I LDWITHIN SPEC I MEN
\ ._ _
~ —- 1 ! —.

SH 1 3 0 6 7

FIGURE 18. J310ck diauram of electr ical connect ions for the
W lse resDonse tes~

/ -’-’ L EAD I NGEDGE OF PULSE

+ 4 FROW S I GNALCHANNE ~
PULSE 9 0 PERCENT OF NUMBERON [
HE I GH1 PULSE HE I GHT
.L
1 0 PERCENT OF _. L I AO I NGEDG [ o f PULSE
PULSE HE I GHT FROM S I GNA ICHANNE L
NUMBER TWO .
R I SET I ME FROM S I GNAL —_ i -
CHANNE L NUMBER ONE
- ~ R I SET I MEFROM S I GNAL
I
CHANNE LNUMBERTWC .

SH 1 3 0 6 8

FIGURE 19. OSCilQECODe

112
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MIL-C-24643A

~ii \ TRA I L I NG
E DGE OF PULSE
f ROM S I GNALCHANN [ L
NuMBER O t t [

;L.
:<
>~
PULS [ 9 0 P [ RCEN1 0 1
HE I GHT PULSL H f l GH l TRA l l _ l EDGE
NG OF PWSE
FROM S I GNA1CHANNE L
NUMBER TWO .
1 0 PERCENTO f
PULSE HE I GHT

DECAY T I MEFROM S I GNAL1

CHANNE L NUMBER ONE
4 DECAYT I MEFROM S I GNAL
*LCHANNUNUMEIRTW

SH 1 3 0 6 9

FIGURE 20. QscllloscoDe dls~la~ sho w lnu deca~ tl m e

113
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STANDARDIZATION DOCUMENT IMPROVEMENT PROPOSAL

INSTRUCTIONS

1. The preparing activity must complete bltiks 1, 2.3, and 8. in bl~k 1, both the dtiument number and revision
letter should k given.
2. The submitter of this form must complete blocks 4,5,6, and 7.
3. The preparing activity must provide a reply wlthln 30 days from receipt of the form.

NOTE: This form may not be used to request copies of d~uments, nor to request waivers, or clarification of
requirements on current contracts, Comments submitted on this form do not constitute or imply authorization to
waive any portion of the referenced document(s) or to amend contractual requirements.

1. 00CU~EN~-U~BER ,2. qC+hwD:TEJ/YMnmD,

;i;it<d d.Mi#b””x’”
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i L
DOCUMENT TITLE
h
f E L’4’ -+(” ,C. Lc Smc k . k. , <;K,D ky . f i Q% * 7A
C.(>&
I
NATURE OF CHANGE (kientify paragr$ph numbm ●nd includd prop&d rewrite, if & w“bk. Attach extka sheets ●s needed) ~ npll, +lc

“v G5

REASON FOR RECOMMENDATION

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PREPARtNG AtiWITY
NAME ~,,y; b TELEPHONE Onckfc Area Code)
(1) Commarcml (2) AUTOVON

rw + ,3Y. k, i! 1.5Y.!N\7-4395
IF YOU DO NOT RECEIVE A REPLY WITHIN 45 OAYS, CONTACT:
:;+;,. ‘“ Oefense Quality ●nd $tandardizatlon Off Ice
5203 Leesburg Pike, SuRe 1403, Falls Church, VA 22041-3466
‘i] b\Ck v c. \ Wzf:’ Telephone (703) 756-2340 AUTOVON 289-2340
.—– — . . . . -— -- *UZW
rcxm 1440, sx I U9 previous ●dmons ●re obsolete.