CommScope Trunk & Distribution Cable - Manual (Page 45)

Underground Installation - Vibratory Plowing
Vibratory plowing offers substantial productivity gains over other direct burial methods. A tractor moves slowly
forward as a vibrating blade splits the earth and places the cable at the required depth. Because terrain and soil
types vary, contact your plow manufacturer for their equipment recommendation. We strongly recommend a
professionally engineered single or double feed tube plow blade with a tube at least 1/2 inch (1.3 cm) larger
than the largest cable size and a radius of 12 in (30 cm) or larger. At minimum, an operator and a helper/feeder
are needed for a plowing installation.
Dig a trench deep enough and at least twice the length of the plow blade/chute for the plow blade to enter it
comfortably. A similar trench should be dug at the other end of the installation. The cable may pay-off from the
front of the tractor or from a stationary cable reel.
In the tractor method, make sure the reel is not run into objects that may damage the cable. Pay the cable over
the top of the reel. Do not use reel brakes.
In the stationary reel method, pull the cable end from the reel to the ending trench. Use safety cones to mark and
protect the cable from pedestrian and vehicle traffic.
Cap or tape the cable end. Remove the back plate from the blade and inspect the feed tube for burrs, rough
surfaces and sharp edges. Clean out any dirt or rocks. Carefully place the cable in the feeder tube. Reattach the
back plate.
Carefully pull enough cable through the blade to allow for splicing, etc. Have someone hold the cable end to
keep it from being pulled as the tractor initially moves forward. Start the vibrator after forward movement begins.
Have the blade in solid contact with the earth before applying full RPM. DO NOT VIBRATE IN PLACE FOR
MORE THAN 30 SECONDS.
A worker must manually guide the cable into the plow blade.
Underground Installation 5.4
Vibratory Plowing