Armour cables are cables that have outer casings made from either aluminium or steel. This protective casing is formed by wrapping metal tape to form a corrugated sheath for the internal wires. Armoured cable is stronger and heavier than more flexible insulated cables. Armoured cable is typically used in situations where the cable has a higher risk of puncture, abrasion or other types of damaging interference. Because of its metal casing, armoured cable is not usually installed underground, in damp areas or near sources of water.
Step One
Armoured Cable Slitter - The armoured cable slitter is a simple tool that has two adjustable parts. It has a screw-tightened "V" shape roller that accommodates the armoured cable's diameter, and an adjustable screw linked to a blade wheel that spins to cut through sheathing. The armoured cable is inserted and turned manually to cut through the exterior without damaging the internal wires. After the casing is slipped from the cable, the electrical wires inside can be cut with wire cutters to the desired length.
Step Two
Armoured Cable Cutter - The armoured cable cutter automatically clamps to the cable it's working on. It can cut through sheathing with a metal cutting wheel, or through the entire cable. The operator uses hand-pumped ratchet system to clamp the cable in place, and a turning handle to cut through the casing or cable bundle.
Step Three
Portable Motorized Cable Cutters - Portable armoured cable cutters are motorised cutters that run on electricity. They can be battery-powered for greater maneuverability. There are two types of portable armoured cable cutters. Self-contained machines are specifically made to cut and split armoured cable; armoured cable attachments are attached to portable power saws or reciprocating saws. They include guides that allow the user to set the depth of cut, depending on the metal casing's width and the cable's diameter.
Step Four
Bench Top and Industrial Cable Measuring and Cutting Systems - These machines are made for cutting and splitting large quantities of cable. They come in stand-alone and bench top models. Some manufacturers include computerised measuring units with belts that feed armoured cable through the cutting and splitting apparatus automatically.
Step Five
Anti-Short Bushings - Anti-short bushings are funnel-shaped bushings made from non-conductive plastic. After the cable's metal armour has been cut away, these bushings fit neatly in between the cut armour and the wires inside. Bushings help protect the internal electrical wires from any rough metal edges that may have formed during the cutting or stripping process.
Step Six
Cable Support Straps - Because of its increased weight, armoured cable needs to be mounted to sturdy backing every 24 inches. Metal "U"-shaped support straps are used to secure the armoured cable. To eliminate disconnections or unneeded tension, support straps are placed 12 inches or closer from the junction box during installation.
Step Seven
Cable Guides - Cable guides help installers run armoured cables over the ceiling grid in suspended ceilings. These plastic, rounded-top guides clip over or attach to the ceiling's grid, allowing the corrugated armoured cable to slide effortlessly over large stretches.