Stripping flat cable, particularly like UF cable, involves scoring the sheathing and then pulling it off to expose the wires.
Understanding Flat Cable Sheathing
Flat cables, such as UF (Underground Feeder) cable, are designed with a protective outer layer called sheathing. This sheathing needs to be removed to access the insulated wires inside for electrical connections. Here’s a breakdown of how it's done:
Steps to Strip Flat Cable
The general method for stripping flat cable is as follows:
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Score the Sheathing:
- Use a sharp utility knife to carefully score the outer sheathing of the flat cable.
- Apply enough pressure to cut through the sheathing, but avoid cutting into the underlying insulated wires.
- As demonstrated in the reference, you can score the bottom of the cable's sheathing.
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Pull off the Sheathing:
- Once scored, the sheathing should be easily pulled away from the wires.
- The scored portion will usually come off cleanly, exposing the insulated wires underneath.
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Straighten the Wires:
- As indicated in the reference, after removing the sheathing, the wires can be straightened for easier handling and connection.
Tools Needed
- Utility Knife: A sharp utility knife is essential for scoring the cable's sheathing.
- Safety Glasses: Always wear safety glasses to protect your eyes.
- Gloves: Using gloves will provide additional grip and protection.
Tips for Success
- Light Pressure: When scoring, use light pressure to avoid damaging the wire insulation.
- Multiple Passes: It might be helpful to make multiple light passes with the knife rather than one hard cut.
- Proper Technique: Practice on a spare piece of cable to get the technique right before working on your project.
Practical Example: Stripping UF Cable
- The video reference demonstrates that scoring the bottom of the UF cable makes it easy to pull the sheathing off, and then the wires can be straightened
Summary
The process involves carefully scoring the sheathing with a utility knife, pulling off the sheathing, and straightening the wires. This approach ensures a clean and efficient stripping process.
