PART A - SURFACE CONSTRUCTION
1.
The time element may limit the use of other construction types, in
which case the line is laid hastily on the ground. Route selection is based
on the requirements of the tactical situation and on map and ground
reconnaissance. The decision to place the cable on the ground is generally
related to that time in which the system must be in place.
Surface
construction will not require as many personnel as other construction types.
2.
When placing the cables on the ground they must be protected from
traffic at command posts, at road and railroad crossings, or at other places
where they cross traffic lanes. Vehicular traffic, whether it be wheeled or
tracked, presents the greatest hazard to your cable system.
So it is to
your advantage to place the cable near or at the tree line. This will also
hide your cable and make it less susceptible to sabotage.
3.
Surface lines are laid loosely, with plenty of well-distributed slack
along the line.
Slack should represent approximately 20 percent of the
total distance.
Slack will allow the cable to lay flat and simplifies
construction changes.
4.
Surface lines should be secured to objects as it is placed on the
ground. You can see trees, fence posts, poles, stakes, and other nonmovable
objects.
This will also protect your cable.
If it becomes snagged by a
vehicle, it should prevent the vehicle from dragging your cable down the
road.
When securing the cable, you should remember to make all ties at
ground level. Keep in mind that ground level is on the ground and not 6,
12, or 24 inches up the object. Keep it as close to the ground as possible.
5.
Cable should be tested before and after you install it.
This will
provide you with the satisfaction that the cable should be in working
condition when you reach the distant end. There is no advantage to placing
a bad cable in the line when you are doing the construction. You can check
it by making an orderwire check with the operator at the beginning terminal.
PART B - BURIED AND RAILROAD CROSSING
6.
During the construction of your cable line it may become necessary to
cross the road. This can be accomplished by several means. You could dig a
trench and bury it. You could use a nearby culvert or you could use aerial
which we will discuss later.
7.
If you must cross a hard surface road, it is impracticable to consider
digging a trench and placing the cable underground. You definitely do not
want to consider placing it on the hard surface and let the traffic drive
over it. You should consider using a culvert to cross the road. Perhaps
you might have to back up or move ahead a short distance to locate one, but
it is faster than doing an aerial, which will be discussed later.
8.
When you decide to use a culvert, you will find it is one of the
fastest methods of getting to the other side. The cable must be secured to
a stake and tagged on the standing end. Then move the cable and reel down
to the culvert. Check for animals in the culvert;
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