Stripping SO cable involves safely removing the outer jacket to expose the inner conductors, often done quickly and efficiently by experienced professionals.
To strip SO cable effectively, you typically use a sharp utility knife or a specialized cable stripping tool, making a careful cut around the jacket without damaging the insulation of the internal wires, and then peeling it back.
SO (Service, Oil-resistant) cable is a type of portable cord used for various applications, including powering tools and equipment. Stripping it requires precision to avoid nicking or cutting the wires inside. Electricians often develop techniques to perform this task quickly. As highlighted in the excerpt from the video "How I Strip Sheathed Cable Fast as an Electrician," a key ingredient to doing this quickly is practice.
Here's a general approach often used:
Gather Your Tools
- A sharp utility knife or a dedicated cable stripper designed for round cable.
- Safety glasses (always wear protective eyewear).
The Stripping Process
- Determine Strip Length: Measure and mark the desired length of jacket to remove from the end of the cable.
- Score the Jacket: Using a utility knife, hold the cable firmly and make a shallow score mark around the circumference of the outer jacket at your desired length. The goal is to cut just through the jacket without touching the insulation of the wires beneath. Alternatively, a specialized cable stripper can be set to the correct depth and rotated around the cable.
- Practical Insight: Many electricians slightly angle the blade or tool as they rotate the cable to create a cleaner break in the jacket.
- Make a Longitudinal Cut (Optional but common): Some professionals make a shallow score or cut lengthwise from the end of the cable back to the circular score mark. This helps in peeling the jacket off. Again, be careful not to cut into the inner wire insulation.
- Peel and Remove: Grip the cable on one side of the circular score and peel the cut jacket back towards the end of the cable. The longitudinal cut (if made) will help the jacket split cleanly. If no longitudinal cut was made, you might need to twist and pull or use pliers to help the jacket break and peel.
- Trim Excess: Once the jacket is peeled back to the score mark, carefully trim the loosened jacket completely off the cable end.
Important Considerations
- Safety First: Always cut away from your body and fingers.
- Blade Sharpness: A dull blade is more likely to slip and cause injury or damage the cable.
- Depth Control: Mastering the depth of your cut is crucial. Too deep damages the wire insulation; too shallow makes it hard to remove the jacket.
- Practice Makes Perfect: As mentioned in the video reference, achieving speed and accuracy comes with repeated practice.
Stripping SO cable efficiently requires a balance of speed and precision, developed over time with the right technique and tools.
