Ocean Cable Engineering Handbook Vol4 Compiled by Ian S. Coote

Ocean
Engineering Notes.
Compiled
by
Ian S. Coote
Part 3
Handbook
for
Ocean Cable Engineering.
Volume 4
Grapnels,
Grappling,
and
Cable Buoys.
1st. Edition
This compilation
Copyright 2009 by Ian S. Coote.
Neither Ian S. Coote, or any of his associates

makes any warranty, express or implied,
or assumes any legal liability or responsibility
for the accuracy, completeness or usefulness of
any information, apparatus, product or process
disclosed, or represents that its use would not
infringe privately-owned rights.
Page i
Contents.
Page No.
1. Introduction. 1
2. Grapnels. 2
2.1 Types of Grapnels. 2

2.2 Standard Grapnels. 2
2.2.1 General. 2
2.2.2 5-Prong Round Bottom Common Grapnel. 2
2.2.2.1 Usage. 2
2.2.2.2 Data. 2
2.2.3 5-Prong Chisel and Spear Point Grapnels. 4
2.2.3.1 Usage. 4
2.2.3.2 Data. 4
2.2.4 Commercial Flatfish Grapnels. 6
2.2.4.1 Usage. 6
2.2.4.2 Data. 6
2.2.5 Gifford Grapnels. 8
2.2.5.1 Usage. 8
2.2.5.2 Data. 8
2.2.6 Vee-Jaw Gifford Grapnels. 10
2.2.6.1 Usage. 10
2.2.6.2 Data. 10
2.2.7 Jamming Grapnels. 12
2.2.7.1 Usage. 12
2.2.7.2 Data. 12
2.2.8 Rennies Grapnels. 14
2.2.8.1 Usage. 14
2.2.8.2 Data. 14
2.2.9 Rouillard Grapnel. 16
2.2.9.1 Usage. 16
2.2.9.2 Data. 16
2.2.10 Sand Grapnel 18
2.2.10.1 Usage. 18
2.2.10.2 Data. 18
2.2.11 Sliding Prong Grapnel. 20
2.2.11.1 Usage. 20
2.2.11.2 Data. 20
2.3 Cutting Grapnels. 22
2.3.1 5-Prong Common Cutting Grapnel. 22
2.3.1.1 Usage. 22
2.3.1.2 Data. 22
2.3.2 BPO Cutting Grapnel. 24
2.3.2.1 Usage. 24
2.3.2.2 Data. 24
2.3.3 BPO Cut and Hold Grapnel. 26
2.3.3.1 Usage. 26
2.3.3.2 Data. 26
Page ii
Contents ( Continued ).
Page No.
2.3.4 Cutting Flatfish Grapnel. 28

2.3.4.1 Usage. 28
2.3.4.2 Data. 28
2.3.5 Powered Cutting Flatfish Grapnel. 30
2.3.5.1 Usage. 30
2.3.5.2 Data. 30
2.3.6 Lucas Cut and Hold Grapnel. 32
2.3.6.1 Usage. 32
2.3.6.2 Data. 32
2.4 Detrenching Grapnels. 34
2.4.1 6-Prong Detrenching Grapnel. 34
2.4.1.1 Usage. 34
2.4.1.2 Data. 34
2.4.2 Batfish Grapnel. 36
2.4.2.1 Usage. 36
2.4.2.2 Data. 36
2.4.3 Detrenching Grapnel. 38
2.4.3.1 Usage. 38
2.4.3.2 Data. 38
2.5 Grapnel Usage. 40
3. Grappling. 43
3.1 Grappling from a Cable Ship. 43

3.1.1 Application. 43
3.1.2 Preparation. 43
3.1.3 Grappling with Normal Grapnels. 43
3.1.3.1 General. 43
3.1.3.2 Rigging. 43
3.1.3.3 Technique. 46
3.1.4 Grappling with Cutting Grapnels. 48
3.1.5 Grappling with Cut and Hold Grapnels. 48
3.1.6 Grappling for Plowed-in Cable. 50
3.2 Grappling from a Lighter or Barge. 55
3.2.1 Technique. 55
3.2.2 Selection of Grapnel. 55
3.2.3 The Tug and the Lighter. 55
3.2.4 Grappling from a Tug. 58
3.2.5 Grappling from a Boat. 58
4. Cable Buoys and Moorings. 59
4.1 Usage. 59
4.2 Mooring Components. 59
4.2.1 Cable Buoys. 59
4.2.2 Chain Assemblies. 70
4.2.3 Buoy Rope ( Main Section of Scope ). 70
Page iii
Page No.
4.2.4 Ground Chain. 73

4.2.5 Anchors. 74
4.2.6 Underwater Swivels. 75
4.3 Mooring Configurations. 77
4.3.1 Rigging of Cable ( Balloon ) Buoys. 77
4.3.2 Mark Buoy Rigging. 81
4.3.3 Cable End Buoy Rigging. 83
4.4 Mooring Calculations. 87
4.4.1 Mooring Weight and Strength. 87
4.4.2 Estimation of Drag on Balloon Buoys and Moorings. 89
4.5 IALA Maritime System Relating to Cable Buoys. 91
Appendices.
A. Characteristics of Grapnel and Buoy Ropes. A1
A.1 General. A1
A.2 Construction. A1
A.2.1 General. A1
A.2.2 Steel Wires. A2
A.2.3 Link-Thimble Assemblies. A2
A.2.4 Fiber Parts. A2
A.2.5 Detail Construction. A3
B. Balloon Buoys and Mooring Characteristics. A5
B.1 General. A5
B.2 Balloon Buoys. A5
B.3 Chain Assemblies. A7
B.4 Side Rope. A8
B.5 Main Section of Scope. A9
B.6 Wear Piece. A10
B.7 Ground Chain. A10
B.8 Anchor Chains - Mushroom Anchors. A11
B.9 Anchors. A12
C. Splicing Grapnel and Buoy Rope. A13
C.1 Introduction. A13

C.2 Splicing Grapnel and Buoy Rope ( Wire Construction ). A13
C.2.1 Introduction. A13
C.2.2 Equipment. A13
C.2.3 Procedure. A14
Page iv
Page No.
C.3 Splicing Buoy ( Braided ) Rope. A30

C.3.1 Introduction. A30
C.3.2 Tools Needed. A30
C.3.2.1 Rope Diameters 1 inch - 25 mm and Smaller. A30
C.3.2.2 Rope Diameters 1 inch - 25 mm and Over. A30
C.3.2.3 Use of a Wire Fid. A31
C.3.3 Standard Eye Splice. A32
C.3.4 Standard End for End Splice. A38
C.3.5 Special Tips. A44
C.3.5.1 Eye Splice with Thimble. A44
C.3.5.2 Splicing Used Rope. A44
Page v
Figures.
Page No.
2.2.2.2(a) 5-Prong round bottom common grapnels. 3
2.2.3.2(a) 5-Prong chisel and spear point grapnels. 5
2.2.4.2(a) Commercial flatfish grapnel. 7
2.2.5.2(a) Gifford grapnels - chain joining link pattern. 9
2.2.6.2(a) Vee-jaw Gifford grapnel. 11
2.2.7.2(a) Jamming grapnel. 13
2.2.8.2(a) Rennies grapnel. 15
2.2.9.2(a) Rouillard grapnel. 17
2.2.10.2(a) Sand grapnels. 19
2.2.11.2(a) Sliding prong grapnels. 21
2.3.1.2(a) Common cutting grapnel. 23
2.3.2.2(a) B>P>O> cutting grapnel. 25
2.3.3.2(a) B.P.O. cut and hold grapnel. 27
2.3.4.2(a) Combination flatfish grapnel 29
2.3.5.2(a) Powered cutting flatfish grapnel. 31
2.3.6.2(a) Lucas cut and hold grapnel. 33
2.4.1.2(a) 6-Prong detrenching grapnel 35
2.4.2.2(a) Batfish grapnel. 37
3.1.3.2(a) Arrangement of rig for grappling. 45
3.1.3.3(a) Capturing cable in a grapnel and subsequent raising to surface. 47
3.1.4(a) Action of cutting grapnel. 49
3.1.6(a) Installation of Mark buoy and mooring. 51
3.1.6(b) Lowering of grapnel in preparation for run. 52

Page vi
Figures ( Continued ).
Page No.
3.1.6(c) Grappling run using mooring for additional pull. 53
3.1.6(d) Raising bight of plowed-in cable to surface. 54
3.2.1(a) Arrangement of rig for grappling from a lighter or barge. 56
3.2.1(b) Capturing cable in grapnel and subsequent raising to surface 57

using lighter.
3.2.2(a) Boats centipede ( Small sliding prong grapnel ). 58
4.2.1(a) Typical Balloon buoy components. 61
4.2.1(b) Cable buoys - No. 0-0 ( 6-1/2 ton ) Balloon Buoy. 62
4.2.1(c) Cable buoys - No. 0 ( 4 ton ) Balloon Buoy. 63
4.2.1(d) Cable buoys - No. 1 ( 3 ton ) Balloon Buoy. 64
4.2.1(e) Cable buoys - No. 2 ( 2 ton ) Balloon Buoy. 65
4.2.1(f) Cable buoys - No. 3 ( 1-1/4 ton ) Balloon Buoy. 66
4.2.1(g) Cable buoys - No. 4 ( 13 cwt. ) Balloon Buoy. 67
4.2.1(h) Cable buoys - No. 5 ( 7-1/2 cwt. ) Balloon Buoy. 68
4.2.1(i) Cable buoys - No. 6 ( 4-1/2 cwt. ) Balloon Buoy. 68
4.2.1(j) Cable buoys - No. 7 ( 1-1/2 cwt. ) Balloon Buoy. 69
4.2.1(k) Cable buoys - Barrel buoy. 69
4.2.2(a) Typical alloy chain assemblies for use with Balloon Buoys. 71
4.2.3(a) Configuration of scope showing part subject to wear on bottom. 72
4.3.1(a) Rigging of chain assemblies to balloon buoy. 78
4.3.1(b) Rigging of balloon buoy for deck recovery. 79
4.3.1(c) Rigging of buoy chain to barrel buoy. 80
4.3.2(a) Mooring configuration for mark buoy. 82

Page vii
Page No.
4.3.3(a) Mooring configuration for cable end buoy with cable as 84

scope.
4.3.3(b) Mooring configuration for cable end buoy. 86
C.2.3(a) A15
C.2.3(b) A17
C.2.3(c) A18
C.2.3(d) A20
C.2.3(e) A22
C.2.3(f) A23
C.2.3(g) A25
C.2.3(h) A27
C.2.3(i) A29
C.3.2.1(a) Tubular fid, pusher and method for inserting cover or core A30
into fid.
C.3.2.3(a) Wire fid. A31
C.3.2.3(b) Inserting fid into cover or core. A31
C.3.2.3(c) Taping cover or core to fid. A31
C.3.3(a) Standard eye. A32
C.3.3(b) A32
C.3.3.(c) A33
C.3.3(d) A33
C.3.3(e) A34
C.3.3(f) A34
C.3.3(g) A35
C.3.3(h) A35
Page viii
Page No.
C.3.3(i) A36
C.3.3(j) A36
C.3.4(a) Standard End for End. A38
C.3.4(b) A38
C.3.4(c) A39
C.3.4(d) A39
C.3.4(e) A40
C.3.4.(f) A40
C.3.4(g) A41
C.3.4(h) A41
C.3.4(i) A42
C.3.4(j) A42
C.3.4(k) A43
C.3.5.2(a) A44
C.3.5.2(b) A45
C.3.5.2(c) A45
C.3.5.2(d) A46
Page ix
Tables.
Page No.
2.5(a) Quick reference for grapnel usage - shallow water. 41
2.5(b) Quick reference for grapnel usage - deep water. 42
3.1.3.2(a) Minimum Breaking Strength and Weight in Water for Grapnel 44

Ropes ( New Rope ).
4.2.1(a) Typical Balloon Buoys - General Data nd Usage. 60
4.2.1(b) Barrel Buoy - General Data. 60
4.2.2(a) Weight of Typical Alloy Chain Assemblies for Balloon Buoys. 70
4.2.3(a) Weight and Strength of Grapnel ( Buoy ) Rope. 73
4.2.3(b) Weight and Strength of Typical Double Braided Nylon Rope. 73
4.2.4(a) Weight and Strength of Open Link Alloy Chain to ASTM Spec. 74
A391-65
4.2.4(b) Weight and Strength of Stud Link Alloy Chain ( Grade 3 ). 74
4.2.5(a) Holding Power and Usage of Mushroom Anchors. 75
4.2.5(b) Weight and Holding Power of Danforth/Lightweight Anchors. 75
4.2.6(a) Weight and Working Load for Miller Swivels. 76
4.2.6(b) Weight and Working Load for SKL Swivels. 76
4.3.1(a) Size of Chain Assemblies and Screw Pin Shackles for Balloon 77
Buoys.
4.4.2(a) Approximate Factor f = 12 ! CD A with V in Knots, for Drag 89

of Balloon Buoys and Chain Assemblies.
4.4.2(b) Approximate Factor f = 12 ! CD A with V in Knots, for Drag 89

of 100 ft. - 100 m. Length of Mooring Ropes.
A.1(a) Rope Size Designations. A1
A.2.3(a) Proof Loads for Link-Thimble Assemblies. A2
A.2.4(a) Jute Strand Core. A3

Page x
Tables ( Continued ).
Page No.
A.2.5(a) Length of Lay ( Pitch ). A3
A.2.5(b) Minimum Rope Breaking Strength. A4
B.2(a) Balloon Buoy Dimensions. A5
B.2(b) Working Loads, Approx. Submergence Load. A6
B.2(c) Length from Release to Draft. A6
B.2(d) Form Drag Coefficient. A6
B.3(a) Characteristics of Alloy Chain Grade 3 ( Baldt ). A7
B.3(b) Chain Assembly Lengths. A7
B.3(c) Normal Drag Coefficient ( Program NOYFB ). A7
B.4(a) Grapnel Rope Characteristics ( MIL-W-19460B(SHIPS) ). A8
B.4(b) Double Braided Nylon Rope Characteristics ( Samson 2-in-1 A 8

Super Strong Nylon ).
B.5(b) Double Braided Nylon Rope Characteristics ( Samson 2-in-1 A 9

Super Strong Nylon ).
B.7(a) Characteristics of Alloy Chain Grade 3 ( Baldt ). A10
B.7(b) Normal Drag Coefficient. A11
B.8(a) Anchor Chain Characteristics. A11
B.9(a) Characteristics of Anchors. A12

Page xi
Sources of Material Used.
The following are the identifiable sources from which the material used in this volume has
been derived.
Chapters, Sections.
USN NAVFAC P-906 April 1976 Volume 2. 2
Tridente SL. 2, 4.2.1, 4.2.2, 4.2.6
Miller Products Inc. 4.2.6
Samson. 4.2.3, B
Samson Riggers Manual for 2-in-1 and 12 strand single C.3

braided rope.
B.P.O. IEE Conference Publication Number 183, Submarine 2.1, 3.1.6

Telecommunications Systems: pp 48 - 51.
WECo. 4.2.2
Note; This volume is also substantially derived from personal notes.

Page xii
Page 1
1. Introduction.
This part of the handbook contains descriptions of grapnels and their usage, grappling
procedures, cable buoys ( Balloon buoys and others ) and their mooring components, mooring
configurations and calculations for moorings.
Dimensions and lengths are given in both English and Metric units, where applicable.
Page 2
2. Grapnels.
2.1 Types of Grapnels.
Grapnels form the cable capturing device during the recovery of cables from the ocean bottom.
There are many types of grapnel to cater for different ocean bottoms, cable types, water depths
and whether the cable is buried. Also many types of grapnel have variations to further
improve their capability.
The following three subsections provide details on the form and usage of the different types
of grapnels and their general arrangement, size and weight. Grapnels have been divided in to
Standard Grapnels, Cutting Grapnels and Detrenching Grapnels to provide a structure
for their description. This is not a comprehensive list of all grapnels as many companies
develop their own designs and a number of older designs have now fallen into disuse, but the
list covers most of the grapnels in common use. Also the form of given type of grapnel may
vary somewhat between different manufacturers.
2.2 Standard Grapnels.
2.2.1 General.
Standard grapnels are intended grapple for the cable on the bottom and then lift a bight of
cable, or a cable end, to the surface. They are often used in groups to improve the grappling
capability.
2.2.2 5-Prong Round Bottom Common Grapnel.
2.2.2.1 Usage.
The 5-prong round bottom common grapnel is intended for use on soft sand and mud bottoms.
Three prong lengths, short, medium and long, are available to provide control of bottom
penetration. 4-prong and 6-prong versions of this grapnel also exist.
These grapnels can be used in conjunction with other grapnels but should be the trailing
grapnel. They generally cannot be brought inboard of the bow sheaves with a cable in the
prongs.
These grapnels can be used in all water depths, but are more suitable for use in shallow water.
2.2.2.2 Data.
The general arrangement of the three forms of the 5-prong round bottom common grapnel is
shown in figure 2.2.2.2(a), The tip of each prong is angled to improve penetration and the
towing eye is able to swivel. The size of the steel screw pin anchor shackle used to attach the
grapnel to the ground chain should be compatible with the strength of the ground chain and
grapnel rope being used.
9 in -
22.8 cm
34 in -
13.5 in - 13 in - 9 in -
86.4 cm
34.3 cm 33 cm 22.8 cm
16 in -
40.6 cm
12 in -
30.5 cm
8 in -
20 cm
Long Prong Medium Prong Short Prong

Approx. Weight 560 lb - 255 Kg Approx. Weight 336 lb - 153 Kg Approx. Weight 252 lb - 115 Kg
Fig. 2.2.2.2(a) 5-Prong round bottom common grapnels.

Page 3
Page 4
2.2.3 5-Prong Chisel and Spear Point Grapnels.
2.2.3.1 Usage
The 5-prong chisel and spear point grapnels are intended for use on sand and mud bottoms.
They provide better penetration than the 5-prong round bottom common grapnel in firmer
bottoms. Two prong lengths, medium and long, are available to provide control of bottom
penetration. 4-prong and 6-prong versions of this grapnel also exist.
These grapnels can be used in conjunction with other grapnels but should be the trailing
grapnel. They generally cannot be brought inboard of the bow sheaves with a cable in the
prongs.
These grapnels can be used in all water depths, but are more suitable for use in shallow water.
2.2.3.2 Data.
The general arrangement of the 5-prong chisel and spear point grapnels is shown in figure
2.2.3.2(a). These grapnels are modifications of the 5-prong round bottom common grapnel with
the tips of the prongs modified to improve penetration. The towing eye is able to swivel and
the size of the steel screw pin anchor shackle used to attach the grapnel to the ground chain
should be compatible with the strength of the ground chain and grapnel rope being used.
The size of the spear point can vary significantly. The form shown here has a small spear
point, but the spear point can extend down to half the length of the prong. Another form has
the prong tapering evenly down to the point.
9 in -
23 cm
12.5 in -
31.8 cm
Chisel
point
34 in -
12 in -
86.4 cm
30.5 cm
17 in -
43.2 cm
14 in -
35.5 cm
Long Prong Medium Prong

Approx. Weight 560 lb - 255 Kg Approx. Weight 336 lb - 153 Kg
Fig. 2.2.3.2(a) 5-Prong chisel and spear point grapnels.

Page 5
Page 6
2.2.4 Commercial Flatfish Grapnel.
2.2.4.1 Usage.
The commercial flatfish grapnel is intended for use on send and mud bottoms.
The grapnel can be used with other grapnels. It can be brought inboard of the bow sheaves with
a cable in the prongs if the sheaves are of the wide flat form, but if Vee form sheaves are fitted
then the grapnel generally cannot be brought inboard.
The grapnel can be used in all water depths.
2.2.4.2 Data.
The general arrangement of the commercial flat fish grapnel is shown in figure 2.2.4.2(a). The
grapnel requires a swivel between the towing point and chain or other grapnel(s).
1.75 in -
4.4 cm dia
39 in -
99 cm
1.25 in -
3.2 cm dia
27 in - 21 in -
68.6 cm 53.3 cm
Approx. Weight 400 lb - 182 Kg.
Fig. 2.2.4.2(a) Commercial flatfish grapnel.

Page 7
Page 8
2.2.5 Gifford Grapnels.
2.2.5.1 Usage.
The Gifford grapnels are intended for use on rough, rocky or coral bottoms. The 30 ton and 50
ton Gifford grapnels are of conventional design with the 50 ton version often being used to
provide more effective grappling of large diameter cables.
The grapnels can be used with other grapnels and can normally be brought inboard of the bow
sheaves with a cable in the prongs.
The grapnels can be used in all water depths.
2.2.5.2 Data.
The general arrangement of the 30 ton and 50 ton Gifford grapnels - chain joining link pattern,
is shown in figure 2.2.5.2(a) .
The overall dimensions and weights may vary slightly as there are several patterns available.
The other common pattern uses shackles instead of chain joining links.
Page 9
66 in -
168 cm
76 in -
193 cm
2.5 in -
6.4 cm
12.7 cm
5 in -
30 Ton 50 Ton
Approx. weight Approx. weight

224 lb - 102 Kg. 450 lb - 205 Kg.
Fig. 2.2.5.2(a) Gifford grapnels - chain joining link pattern.

Page 10
2.2.6 Vee-jaw Gifford Grapnels.
2.2.6.1 Usage.
The Vee-jaw Gifford grapnels are intended for use on rough, rocky or coral bottoms. The Vee-
jaw Gifford grapnel is intended for grappling armorless or plastic covered cables down to
about 1 in. - 2.54 cm. diameter. The Vee form of the jaw acts to jam the cable into the jaw and
prevent it from sliding through as the grapnel is lifted to the surface.
2.2.6.2 Data.
The general arrangement of the Vee-jaw Gifford grapnel in figure 2.2.6.2(a).
The overall dimensions and weights may vary slightly as there are several patterns available.
Page 11
77 in -
196 cm
7.6 cm
3 in -
Fig. 2.2.6.2(a) Vee-jaw Gifford grapnel.

Page 12
2.2.7 Jamming Grapnels.
2.2.7.1 Usage.
The jamming grapnel is intended for use on soft, rough or rocky bottoms for grappling plastic
covered cables ( e.g. armorless coaxial deep sea cables, caged armor deep sea cables, and
optical fiber deep sea cables ). Under tension the cable slides up the prong and jams, thus
preventing the cable from sliding through the grapnel as it is raised to the surface.
The grapnel can be used with other grapnels and can normally be brought inboard of the bow
2.2.7.2 Data.
The general arrangement of the jamming grapnel is shown in figure 2.2.7.2(a). The grapnel
design can be modified for use with other armorless cables by adjusting the jaw dimensions to
suit the different diameters.
Page 13
157 cm
62 in -
Approx. weight 200 lb - 91 Kg.
Fig. 2.2.7.2(a) Jamming grapnel.

Page 14
2.2.8 Rennie's Grapnels.
2.2.8.1 Usage.
The Rennie's grapnels are intended for use on rocky and rough bottoms and on hard sand.
There are two sizes, the 30 ton and the 50 ton, with the 50 ton size often being used to provide
more effective grappling of larger diameter cables or deeper penetration on hard sand.
The grapnels can be used in all water depths.
2.2.8.2 Data.
The general arrangement of the two sizes of Rennie's grapnels is shown in figure 2.2.8.2(a).
The grapnels are attached to the ground chain by screw pin steel anchor shackles. These must
be of at least 1-1/2 inch size to fit the towing eye of the grapnel and provide the clearance
needed to allow the tow point to move as the grapnels are towed across the bottom.
Page 15
66 in - 168 cm
86 in - 218 cm
30 ton
50 ton
4.25 in - 10.8 cm
5 in - 12.7 cm
30 ton
50 ton
Approx. Weight 30 ton 324 lb - 147 Kg

50 ton 690 lb - 314 kg.
Fig. 2.2.8.2(a) Rennies grapnels.

Page 16
2.2.9 Rouillard Grapnel.
2.2.9.1 Usage.
The Rouillard grapnel is intended for use on sand and mud bottoms.
The grapnel can be used with other grapnels, though its weight makes it more suitable for use
by itself. If used with other grapnels it must be the trailing grapnel. It cannot be brought
inboard of the bow sheaves with a cable in the prongs,
The grapnel can be used in all water depths, but is more suitable for use in shallow water.
2.2.9.2 Data.
The general arrangement of the Rouillard grapnel is shown in figure 2.2.9.2(a). The size of the
steel screw pin anchor shackle used to attach the grapnel to the chain swivel should be
compatible with the strength of the ground chain and grapnel rope being used.
67 in -
170.2 cm
48 in - 32 in -
121.9 cm 81.3 cm
Fig. 2.2.9.2(a) Rouillard grapnel.

Page 17
Page 18
2.2.10 Sand Grapnel.
2.2.10.1 Usage.
The sand grapnel is intended for use on sand bottoms. It is a modification of the 5-Prong
Round Bottom Common Grapnel to improve penetration into a sand bottom. Three weights are
available to control penetration.
The grapnel can be used with other grapnels though its weight makes it more suitable for use
by itself. If used with other grapnels it must be the trailing grapnel. It cannot be brought
inboard of the bow sheaves with a cable in the prongs.
2.2.10.2 Data.
The general arrangement of the sand grapnel grapnel is shown in figure 2.2.10.2(a). The size of
the steel screw pin bow shackle used to attach the grapnel to the chain swivel should be
compatible with the strength of the ground chain and grapnel rope being used ( Typically a 12
ton bow shackle).
17.4 in -
140 cm
140 cm
55.1 in -
120 cm
47.2 in -
90 cm
35.4 in -
40.7cm
16.0 in -
Nom. weight 550 lb - 250 Kg. Nom. weight 396 lb - 180 Kg. Nom. weight 253 lb - 115 Kg.
Fig. 2.2.10.2(a). Sand grapnels.

Page 19
Page 20
2.2.11 Sliding Prong Grapnel.
2.2.11.1 Usage.
The sliding prong grapnel is intended for use on sand and mud bottoms, with two prong
lengths to control penetration.
The grapnel can be use with other grapnels but generally cannot be brought inboard of the bow
2.2.11.2 Data.
The general arrangement of the sliding prong grapnel in both the long and short prong
arrangement is shown in figure 2.2.11.2(a). Prongs can be interchanged by removing one of the
shackles and sliding the prongs off the bar and replacing them with the other size and
replacing the shackle.
Page 21
16 in - 22 in -
40.6 cm 55.9 cm
72 in -
183 cm
Short Prong Long Prong
Approx. Weight Approx. Weight

504 lb - 229 Kg. 584 lb - 265 Kg.
Fig. 2.2.11.2(a) Sliding prong grapnel.

Page 22
2.3 Cutting Grapnels.
2.3.1 5-Prong Common Cutting Grapnel.
2.3.1.1 Usage.
The 5-prong common cutting grapnel is intended for use on soft sand and mud bottoms, for
cutting armored cables.
The grapnel is not intended for use with other grapnels.
2.3.1.2 Data.
The general arrangement of the 5-prong common cutting grapnel is shown in figure 2.3.1.2(a).
The grapnel is a modification of the 5-prong round bottom common grapnel with cutting blades
at the root of each prong.
The towing eye is able to swivel and the size of the steel screw pin anchor shackle used to
attach the grapnel to the ground chain should be compatible with the strength of the ground
chain and grapnel rope being used,
Page 23
22.9 cm
9 in -
86.4 cm
34 in -
14 in -
35.6 cm
35.6 cm
14 in -
Cutting blade
( 5 sets )
Fig. 2.3.1.2(a) Common cutting grapnel.

Page 24
2.3.2 BPO Cutting Grapnel.
2.3.2.1 Usage.
The BPO cutting grapnel is intended for use on soft bottoms for cutting armored cables up to
1.7 in. - 4.3 cm. diameter.
The grapnel is able to be used in all water depths, but is primarily intended for use in
shallow water.
2.3.2.2 Data.
The general arrangement of the BPO cutting grapnel is shown in figure 2.3.2.2(a ). The grapnel
consists of a double sided flat framework, housing the hydraulic equipment, with a fluke
projecting from each side. Thus it does not matter which way up the grapnel rests on the
bottom. The grapnel is towed at right angles to the cable track, and on engagement, the cable is
forced up the fluke into position on the rear cutting blade. When the towing tension increases
by approximately 2200 lbf. - 1000 Kgf., the blade slides back against a stop and operates a
valve allowing high pressure oil to flow into a ram operating the front blade of the guillotine,
This moves until the cable is cut between the blades.
The hydraulic power is obtained from accumulators in which oil is stored under a pressure of
5000 psi. from compressed nitrogen gas.
A sonic, 12 kHz, "pinger" is mounted in the grapnel to transmit a pulsed signal when a cut is
made. This signal can be received on the ship's Precision Depth Sounder and indicate that the
grapnel is ready for recovery.
Although this grapnel only cuts the cable and does not hold onto one end, the low tension
required to make the cut means that the cable is not disturbed and the two ends are easier to
locate and lift.
Supporting equipment is required to charge the nitrogen gas system and reset the grapnel.
Spares are required for cutting blades and anvils.
Dimensions approx. only.
26 in -
66 cm
100 in -
40 in -
254 cm
102 cm
Fig. 2.3.2.2(a) B.P.O. cutting grapnel.

Page 25
Page 26
2.3.3 BPO Cut and Hold Grapnel.
2.3.3.1 Usage.
The BPO cut and hold grapnel is intended for use on soft bottoms with armorless coaxial and
optical fiber deep sea cables. It is designed to cut and hold a selected side of the cut cable.
The grapnel is not intended for use with other grapnels. It can be brought inboard of wide, flat
type bow sheaves with greater than 40 inches between whiskers but not with normal Vee type
bow sheaves, with a cable held.
The grapnel can be used in all water depths, but due to its limitation to armorless cable is
primarily used in deep water.
2.3.3.2 Data.
The general arrangement of the BPO cut and hold grapnel is shown in figure 2.3.3.2(a). The
grapnel consists of a double sided flat framework, housing the hydraulic equipment, with a
fluke projecting from each side. Thus it does not matter which way up the grapnel rests on the
bottom. Each fluke consists of two inclined blades in a Vee shape which cut into the bottom
with a low drag to hook the cable and position it against the two arresting anvils at the edges
of the main frame. Initially the cable is also in contact with a trigger arm on the primary ram,
and when the cable tension rises to 550 to 1000 lbf - 250 to 455 Kgf, the trigger operates,
opening a hydraulic valve to start the holding sequence.
The hydraulic power is obtained from accumulators in which oil is stored under a pressure of
6000 psi. from compressed nitrogen gas.
The primary hydraulic ram has a stationary piston on a rod fixed fore and aft to the main
frame. The cylinder slides on the rod and has a six-start thread with a 14 inch lead machined
on the outer periphery, which forms the drum around which the cable is wound. The thread
engages with a fixed nut housed in the central cross member of the main frame. Incorporated
in the rear of the cylinder are the cable operated primary triggers and the two cable hooks.
Once the primary trigger is operated by the cable tension, a valve is opened and high pressure
oil flows into the cylinder forcing it to move aft . As it moves the screw thread imparts a
rotation and one of the hooks engages the cable lying across the anvils. The cylinder continues
to move and the hook describes a helical path, winding a bight of cable around the periphery
of the cylinder. At the end of its travel, the cylinder operates a second hydraulic valve,
supplying power to secondary rams carrying chisel blades which move to cut one side of the
cable against one of the anvils. By positioning these blades in a diagonal formation, a pre-
determined port or starboard cut can be achieved, irrespective of which way up the grapnel
lands on the bottom. Thus one side of the cable is cut free and the other side, which is
attached to the grapnel, can be recovered. The turns around the drum can sustain a load in
excess of 40,000 lbf - 18,000 Kgf. The residual hydraulic pressure will prevent contra-
rotation of the barrel due to recovery tension, an additional safeguard is provided by a ratchet
mechanism.
A sonic pinger mounted in the grapnel transmits a 12 kHz pulsed signal whose repetition rate
is increased as each grapnel operation takes place, These signals can be received on the ship's
Precision Depth Sounder and thus the ship can be certain that each operation has been
completed and the grapnel and cable are ready for recovery,
Supporting equipment is required to charge the nitrogen gas system and reset the grapnel.
Spares are required for cutting blades and anvils.
Dimensions approximate
only
26 in -
66 cm
120 in - 40 in -
305 cm 102 cm
Fig. 2.3.3.2(a) B.P.O. Cut and hold grapnel.

Page 27
Page 28
2.3.4 Cutting Flatfish Grapnel.
2.3.4.1 Usage.
The cutting flat fish grapnel is intended for use on soft sand and mud bottoms with both
armored and armorless cable. The cutting flatfish grapnel is probably the most commonly used
cutting grapnel.
The combination flatfish grapnel in recovery mode, can be brought inboard with a cable in the
prongs if the bow sheaves are of the wide flat form, but if they are of the standard Vee form
the grapnel cannot be brought inboard.
2.3.4.2 Data.
The general arrangement of a version of the cutting flatfish grapnel, the combination flat fish
grapnel, is shown in figure 2.3.4.2(a) in both configurations, cutting and recovery.
When used for cutting, the blades must be selected for armored or armorless cable to ensure
proper cutting action. For conventional armored cable, the straight blades are used, while for
armorless cable the curved blades are used. The breakaway bars are used to improve the
cutting action by supporting the cable off the cutting blades until the tension in the cable is
sufficient to break the bars and drive the cable onto the cutting blades with increased force.
When used for recovery, gloves are fitted over the cutting blades. These gloves have a Vee form
to aid gripping the cable and prevent it from sliding through the prongs as the grapnel is
lifted to the surface. In recovery mode the grapnel can be used with other grapnels.
Spares for the grapnel consist of breakaway bars, and the two types of cutting blades.
Cutting Recovery
Cutting Breakaway
blades bars Glove
63 in -
160 cm
20 in - 27 in -
50.8 cm 68.6 cm
Fig. 2.3.4.2(a) Combination flatfish grapnel.

Page 29
Page 30
2.3.5 Powered Cutting Flatfish Grapnel.
2.3.5.1 Usage.
The powered cutting flatfish grapnel is intended for use on sand and mud bottoms, to cut
armored cables up to 3.4 in - 8.6 cm diameter at pressures up to 10000 psig., that is, to
depths down to 3.7 n. miles.
2.3.5.2 Data.
The general arrangement of the powered cutting flatfish grapnel is shown in figure 2.3.5.2(a).
The grapnel is set up by first building up the explosively powered cutters, while removed
from the grapnel body. When the grapnel is ready to be used, it is first attached to the end of
the ground chain and then the explosively powered cutters are mounted, with safety pins in.
The grapnel is hoisted outboard of the bow sheaves and the weight transferred to the grappling
rope and ground chain. Just prior to lowering, the safety pins are removed. Recovery is the
reverse procedure, with safety pins being inserted in the cutter(s) that have not been
activated, prior to bringing the grapnel inboard.
By selection of the shear pins in the cutters, the pressure from the cable needed to activate
the cutters can be set at 3400, 6800 or 10200 lbf - 1545, 3090, or 4636 Kgf.
Spares required include cutting knives, shear pins, pistons, sealing washers and cartridges.
Flatfish body Cutter guide slot
Cutter barrel
assembly complete
Cutter in
with expendable parts.
operating position
( partially withdrawn )
52 in -
132 cm
Grapnel
prong
Cutter
mounting Cutter
screws body
Retaining
cap
32 in - 26 in -
81.3 cm 66 cm
Approx. weight 550 lb - 250 Kg
Fig. 2.3.5.2(a) Powered cutting flatfish grapnel.

Page 31
Page 32
2.3.6 Lucas Cut and Hold Grapnel.
2.3.6.1 Usage.
The Lucas cut and hold grapnel is intended for use on sand and mud bottoms in grappling deep
type armored cables up to about 1.4 in - 3.5 cm in diameter. It is designed to cut and hold a
preselected end of the cable.
The grapnel is not intended for use with other grapnels and cannot be brought inboard of the
bow sheaves with a cable held.
The grapnel is primarily intended for use in deep water only, but can be used in shallow water
if it is compatible with the cable.
2.3.6.2 Data.
The general arrangement of the Lucas cut and hold grapnel is shown in figure 2.3.6.2(a), with
the dotted lines showing the position of the clamping arms in the open position, that is, armed
for cable capture.
At the bottom of each arm is a cutting blade, the blade on each arm being on the opposite side
of the grapnel so that either arm will cut the cable on the same side, independent of which way
the grapnel is lying on the bottom.
Prior to launching, the grapnel arms are spread and locked using a calibrated bolt. When the
grapnel hooks a cable in a prong, the tension in the towing rope increases until at a preset
load the bolt brakes and the arms close on the cable, trapping it, and cutting it through on the
preselected side. In use this feature means that to catch a given side, runs must be made in
one direction across the cable track only.
Page 33
129.5 cm
51 in -
Prongs
Clamping arms
open position
Cutting blades
Fig. 2.3.6.2(a) Lucas cut and hold grapnel.

Page 34
2.4 Detrenching Grapnels.
2.4.1 6-Prong Detrenching Grapnel.
2.4.1.1 Usage.
The 6-prong detrenching grapnel is primarily intended for grappling buried cable in soft
sand or mud bottoms.
bow sheaves with a cable in the prongs.
The grapnel is for use in shallow water only.
2.4.1.2 Data.
The general arrangement of the 6-prong detrenching grapnel is shown in figure 2.4.1.2(a).
The grapnel is attached using a 12 ton anchor shackle.

Page 35
68.9 in -
175 cm
98.4 in -
250 cm
Fig. 2.4.1.2(a) 6-prong detrenching grapnel.

Page 36
2.4.2 Batfish Grapnel.
2.4.2.1 Usage.
The Batfish grapnel is primarily intended for grappling buried cable in soft sand or mud
bottoms.
bow sheaves with a cable in the prongs.
The grapnel is for use in shallow water only.
2.4.2.2 Data.
The general arrangement of the Batfish grapnel is shown in figure 2.4.2.2(a). The grapnel is
derived from the Flatfish grapnel with a double set of prongs to give better penetration and a
large triangular base plate to give improved stability.
The shackle size for the tow point is 2 or 2-1/4 inch steel screw pin anchor shackle. Holes
along the trailing edge are for handling over the bow sheaves.
cm cm
70 in -70 in -
177.8 177.8
94 in - 53 in -
238.8 cm 134.6 cm
Fig. 2.4.2.2(a) Batfish grapnel.

Page 37
Page 38
2.4.3 Detrenching Grapnel.
2.4.3.1 Usage.
The detrenching grapnel is intended for use on soft bottoms to recover buried armored cable
for repair. Two sizes are available, the smaller with 26 in - 66 cm prongs and the larger with
36 in - 91 cm prongs. Due to the very high towing forces, the larger grapnel is not normally
used.
These grapnels are not intended for use with other grapnels and cannot be brought inboard of
the bow sheaves with a cable in the prongs.
These grapnels are for use in shallow water only.
2.4.3.2 Data.
The general arrangement of the two sizes of the detrenching grapnel is shown in figure
2.4.3.2(a).
Towing forces for the 26 in - 66 cm and 36 in - 91 cm prong sizes are 17,000 lbf and 34,000
lbf - 7727 Kgf and 15454 Kgf, respectively. In some cases it may be necessary for the cable
ship to put down an auxiliary anchor and winch herself along to provide the necessary towing
force needed for the grapnel.
Because of the high towing force, it is difficult to detect the capture of a cable and care must
be taken when the grapnel has crossed the cable track, not to pull the bight of cable out too far
and break it.
A similar design from Alcatel is also available. This has the rollers further back at the
prongs. The weight is 3520 lb - 1600 Kg, the maximum detrenching depth is 31 in - 80 cm
with a maximum drawbar pull of 55000 lbf - 25000 Kgf.
Page 39
Size A B C D Weight
26 in - 60.5 in - 120 in - 72 in - 3500 lb -

Small
66 cm 153.7 cm 304.8 cm 182.9 cm 1590 Kg
36 in - 84 in - 165 in - 100 in - 8500 lb -

Large
91.4 cm 213.4 cm 419.1 cm 254 cm 3864 Kg
Dimensions and weights are approximate
B
A
C D
Fig. 2.4.3.2(a) Detrenching grapnel.

Page 40
2.5 Grapnel Usage.
The different types of grapnels provide the ability to grapple for cables on various types of
bottoms. Tables 2.5(a) and 2.5(b) give a quick reference for determining suitable grapnels for
a given bottom type. It should be noted that some of the grapnels are highly specialized and
the previous sections 2.2, 2.3 and 2.4 should be consulted before finalizing the selection of
grapnel(s) to be used. In addition, experience will modify the limitations on the usage of
certain grapnels, particularly in some areas of ocean bottom where the characteristics differ
from the expected.
The bottom types have been somewhat rationalized in keeping the quick reference simple. Clay
bottoms are not shown but can have a consistency like hard sand or hard mud depending on the
size of the grains
Page 41
Bottom type
Grapnel type Sand Mud

Rocky Rough Coral
Soft Hard Soft Hard
5-prong round
bottom common
5-prong chisel
and spearpoint
Flatfish
Gifford
Jamming
Rennies
Rouillard
Sand
Sliding prong
5-prong common
cutting
BPO cutting
BPO cut and hold
Cutting flatfish
Powered cutting
flatfish
Lucas cut and
hold
6-prong
detrenching
Batfish
Detrenching
No Limited Full
application application application
Table 2.5(a) Quick reference for grapnel usage - shallow water.

Page 42
Bottom type
Grapnel type Ooze

Rocky Rough Coral
Soft Hard
5-prong round
bottom common
5-prong chisel
and spearpoint
Flatfish
Gifford
Jamming
Rennies
Rouillard
Sand
Sliding prong
5-prong common
cutting
BPO cutting
BPO cut and hold
Cutting flatfish
Powered cutting
flatfish
Lucas cut and
hold
No Limited Full
application application application
Table 2.5(b) Quick reference for grapnel usage - deep water.

Page 43
3. Grappling.
3 .1 Grappling from a Cable Ship.
3.1.1 Application.
Grappling from a cable ship allows the full usage of grappling equipment, though small cable
repair ships are generally limited in maximum working depth and pull. Also some stern
working cable layers are intended only for laying and have limited repair capabilities. To
utilize this ability effectively requires that preparation be carried out prior to grappling, and
that grappling be carried out in a systematic manner,
3.1.2 Preparation.
Once the point at which grappling is to occur is decided, then the preparation for grappling
can begin. The first stage is to determine what type of grapnel is best suited to the cable
configuration and bottom conditions. If it is considered that the cable has been severed then a
normal grapnel can be used to recover both sides separately. On the other hand, if the cable is
still mechanically continuous, then it must be determined if it is possible to lift a bight to the
surface, or whether it will be necessary to cut the cable first with a cutter grapnel and then
recover the ends separately with a normal grapnel. Many of the newer systems are laid with
small excess slack making lifting of a bight to the surface impractical. If the system design
allows lifting a bight to the surface then the technique in Volume 2, Section 4.2 is used to
determine if this is possible.
The alternative to first cutting the cable and grappling for each end separately, is to use a cut
and hold grapnel first, which will leave only one end to be recovered after the initial
grappling.
The second stage is to select the grapnel to be used. Using the data in Section 2 on grapnel
usage, and information the types of grapnels bottom conditions and water depth, the selection
of a suitable grapnel can be made. Also if grappling has been done previously in the area, then
this experience should also be used.
3.1.3 Grappling with Normal Grapnels.
3.1.3.l General.
Normal grapnels are the most commonly used of the grapnels, being able to recover cables from
all depths and bottom types. Most normal grapnels can be combined to improve the ability to
catch the cable if the use of a single grapnel has proved unsuccessful.
3.1.3.2 Rigging.
The grapnel(s) are brought up from the hold and placed inboard of the bow sheaves. If two or
three grapnels are used then the trailing grapnel is attached to the one ahead with an anchor
shackle which is then moused. If the trailing grapnel does not have a swivel, then a chain
swivel of suitable size is shackled between the grapnels.
The 1-1/4 or l-1/2 inch ground chain is then brought up from the chain bins and laid back
along the foredeck aft of the bow sheaves, It is connected the grapnel ( or leading grapnel )
Page 44
with an anchor shackle, or if the grapnel does not have a swivel, with a chain swivel and
anchor shackles; all shackles being moused.
Next the end length ( wear piece ) of the grapnel rope is brought up from the rope store and
shackled onto the ground chain with either an anchor shackle or the special grapnel rope
shackle ( long, round pin, C.S. shackle ). This wear piece is a short length of grapnel rope
typically 600 ft - 183 m long, which is used to take the wear from dragging along the bottom,
and is regularly reversed to even the wear. The use of this section reduces the wear on the
standard lengths of grapnel rope ( 3000 ft - 970 m ) at the ends, if they were directly
connected to the ground chain.
The wear piece is then connected to the main section of the grapnel rope by an underwater
swivel and grapnel rope shackles. The lengths of grapnel rope are joined by grapnel rope
shackles, with underwater swivels every few lengths to reduce the possibility of hockling. The
grapnel rope is then made up on the cable engine to be used ( alternatively it could have been
threaded through the engine as it is brought up from the rope store ).
The selection of the length of grapnel rope to be paid out and its size is done using Volume 2,
Sections 2.2 and 4.1 of the Handbook and table 5.1.3.2(a). From Section 4.1, the bottom tension
is first determined using Tables 4.1(a) and 4.1(b) then from Section 2.2 the tension at the ship
is calculated for the grapnel rope expected to be used. Using table 3.1.3.2(a), the tension at
the ship is checked against the strength of the grapnel rope to see if there is a reasonable
factor of safety ( typically 2 or more ). In doing this, the condition of the grapnel rope, that is
new or worn, must be taken into consideration. If the factor of safety is not enough, then a
heavier grapnel rope should be used, if available. When the grapnel rope size is determined,
then Section 4.1, Table 4.1(c) is used to find the length of grapnel rope to be paid out to
ensure that the grapnel(s) will be dragged across the bottom correctly, and the distance
behind the ship to the grapnel(s).
Broadly speaking, the 8x3 grapnel rope is the most commonly used as its extra strength allows
for wear and tear, 6x3 grapnel rope is the next most commonly used, with 9x5 used for heavy
grappling on cable ships with cable engines of 50 ton - 51 tonnes pull. The 3x3 grapnel rope
can be used for light grappling if care is taken, but only in shallow water.
Figure 3.1.3.2(a) shows a typical grappling rig fully deployed with components shown.
Table 3.1.3.2 (a)
Minimum Breaking Strength and Weight in Water

for Grapnel Ropes ( New Rope )
Rope Minimum breaking Weight in water

Size strength lbf - Kgf lbs/100 ft - Kg/100 m
9x5 105 000 - 47 727 136.7 - 203.8

9x4 80 000 - 36 363 109 - 162.5
8x3 56 000 - 25 454 72.5 - 108
7x3 47 000 - 21 363 63.3 - 94.4
6x3 40 300 - 18 318 54.2 - 80.8
4x3 26 000 - 11 818 35.3 - 52.6
3x3 20 100 - 9 136 26.3 - 39.2
Strengths to MIL-W-19460B (SHIPS)

Grapnel(s)
Underwater swivels Underwater swivel

35 ton 35 ton
as required
Chain 60 ft - 18 m.
Shackles , round screw
pin, C.S. long, joining Wear piece - grapnel rope
grapnel ropes and grapnel 600 ft - 183 m
Grapnel rope
rope to swivels
3000 ft - 914m lengths
as required
Cable
Line of grappling
Fig. 3.1.3.2(a) Arrangement of rig for grappling.

Page 45
Page 46
3.1.3.3 Technique.
Before beginning the grappling runs, it is sometimes desirable to lay a mark buoy to provide a
visual and radar reference or mark a boundary for grappling, if for example another cable was
nearby. Originally the mark buoy was used because the navigation aids were not accurate
enough for determining the ships position during the grappling runs. Laying of a mark buoy
is covered in Section 4.3.2.
The cable ship commences grappling by positioning herself on the line of grappling, sufficient
distance from the cable track to allow the grapnel to be operating properly when it crosses the
cable track.
The grapnel is then lifted outboard of the bow sheaves and lowered slowly and, if necessary,
stopping to join the lengths of grapnel rope or insert swivels. When the grapnel touches the
bottom, the ship gets underway and the grapnel rope is paid out to the calculated length for
the conditions. The ship continues along the line of grappling until the grapnel has crossed
the cable track, using the value from Volume 2, Section 4.1 for the distance of the grapnel
behind the ship to determine the ship's position when this has happened.
The ship now stops and the grapnel is recovered, slowly, to ensure that undue stress is not
induced in the cable, if it has been caught . If possible, as the grapnel rope is picked up, a
tend to starboard can be maintained then the grapnel rope will be able to be coiled down more
easily.
During the picking up of the grapnel rope, the ship should back slowly to come over the cable
track, so that loads in the cable will be minimized, as shown in figure 3.1.3.3(a). Even with
these precautions, it is still likely that the bight may part as it is lifted, particularly if the
cable is externally armored and has been subject to corrosion and wear. On the other hand, if
an end is being grappled for, too high a load could pull the end through the grapnel. To
minimize the possibility of the cable end being pulled through the grapnel, the point at which
the grapnel contacts the cable should be about 2.5 times the water depth from the end,
assuming that the position of the end is known. Similarly if grappling for a recovery rope at
the end of a previously laid cable section ( an alternative to buoying the end ).
If no cable has been caught in the runs the ship proceeds along the line of grappling turns
around and carries out the operation again. Continued unsuccessful runs may indicate the
need to change grapnels, or use two different grapnels, to improve penetration, if practical, or
to reconsider the position at which grappling is being done, If grappling is too close to the
cable ends the normal tensions can pull the end through the grapnel.
Ship speed during grappling should be between 1 to 2 knots in deep water, but not more than
0.5 knot in shallow water. In deep waters the large catenary shape of the suspended grapnel
rope forms a "spring" which lessens the load on the cable when it is caught by the grapnel. In
shallow voter, this spring is very small and the grapnel can easily cut through even large
cables if its speed is too high.
To aid grappling the dynamometer can be used to watch the tension in the grapnel rope. If the
cable is caught, the tension will rise as the grapnel pulls a bight of cable out along the bottom,
Another more sensitive technique is for a man to sit on the grapnel rope inboard of the bow
sheaves. It is possible to feel the grapnel moving across the bottom and the catching of the
cable. For safety, the dynamometer should be watched so that if the tension rises to high
values, the man can move to a safer area. Obviously, if it considered that the cable has been
caught then recovery would begin immediately, instead of waiting until the grapnel had
crossed the cable track.
Page 47
Tension at ship
increasing Cable
Bight of cable being pulled
out along bottom by grapnel
Cable ship over

cable track
Grapnel being raised

with cable in prongs
Cable
Fig. 3.1.3.3(a) Capturing cable in a grapnel and

subsequent raising to surface.
Page 48
3.1.4 Grappling with Cutting Grapnels.
Cutting grapnels are rigged in the same way as a normal grapnels though the cutting grapnel is
always used by itself.
If a powered cutting grapnel is used, then it should armed just prior to lifting outboards if
possible.
Safety pins or similar, should be left in until the grapnel is outboard of the bow sheaves and
ready to be lowered.
After lowering, the grappling proceeds in the same manner as for normal grapnels, except that
it is not necessary to bring the grapnel to the surface after every run. However, on the
completion of a run, the grapnel should be raised clear of the bottom while the ship turns
around.
When the cable is caught by one of the prongs on the grapnel, the tension will rise until the
cable is cut through, when it will fall sharply back to the normal value for the grapnel
dragging on the bottom. This process is illustrated in figure 3.1.4(a). In the case of
explosively powered grapnels, the action of the cutting knife sometimes can be heard on a
hydrophone. For hydraulically powered grapnels, the onboard pinger will indicate a cut. After
the cut is believed to have been made, the cutter grapnel is recovered and drives are then made
for each end with normal grapnels.
If after several runs, there has been no obvious cutting actions then the grapnel should be
recovered and checked. Failure to obtain evidence of cutting after several sets of runs
indicates the need to try, if possible a different type of cutter grapnel with deeper
penetration. If there is still no indication of cutting after this, a drive for the cable should
then be made with normal grapnels, as it is possible that the cable was too weak to activate the
cutter even though it was still cut through.
3.1.5 Grappling with Cut and Hold Grapnels.
Cut and hold grapnels are rigged in the same way as normal grapnels, though the cut and hold
grapnel is always used by itself.
The standard cut and hold grapnel is the cut and hold one end, though there is a cut and
hold both ends grapnel, which appears to be no longer used. With modern cables only the cut
and hold one end type can be used as there is insufficient excess slack to raise a bight to the
surface when both ends are held.
The cut and hold both ends requires that a bight of cable can be lifted to the surface, which
can be determined using the method in Volume 2, Section 4.2. As this grapnel holds both ends,
drives for the cable can be made from either side in the same manner as for normal grapnels,
with the grapnel being recovered after each run to check if the cable has been captured.
The cut and hold one end can be used even if a bight cannot be lifted to the surface. As it is
set up to hold a specified ends drives for the cable must be made from one side only, with the
grapnel being recovered at the end of each run to check if the cable has been captured and to
allow a speedy return across the cable track for the next run. If it does not matter which end
is to be brought to the surface first, then runs can be made both ways, but the grapnel should
be checked after each run. Some cut and hold grapnels have a pinger to indicate its status.
Cut and hold grapnels should be armed just prior to lifting outboard of the bow sheaves, if
possible. Safety pins, or similar, should be left in until the grapnel is ready to be lowered. If
Page 49
Tension
increasing
Cable caught
by prong
Bight of cable being pulled out by cutting grapnel

across bottom
Tension
drops
quickly
Cable cut
Cutting grapnel cuts through bight of cable
Fig. 3.1.4(a) Action of a cutting grapnel.

Page 50
on recovery after a run, the grapnel is found to have been tripped without capturing the cable,
it must be brought inboard for resetting. Similar precautions must be taken when recovering
the grapnel to those for normal grapnels, in order to prevent breaking the cable if it has been
captured.
3.1.6 Grappling for Plowed-in Cable.
Grappling for plowed-in cable, or cable that has become buried due to sediment
transportation, in shallow water is essentially the same as for normal grapnels in shallow
water, except the bottom tension with detrenching type grapnels is normally much higher. If
the cable ship can develop sufficient pull to counteract these high forces, then the procedure
is the same as for normal shallow water grappling. Because of the higher loads, this type of
grappling should only be done in calm conditions. The disadvantage of this method is that for
lighter armored, or armorless, cables, it is highly likely that the grapnel will cut through the
cable without pulling it out of the bottom. The alternative of using a ROV in these cases needs
to be considered.
Many cable repair ships do not have sufficient pull for the larger detrenching grapnels. To
overcome this, it is possible to use a mooring to provide the additional pull as outlined below.
After the track of the plowed-in cable has been accurately located and the point where
grappling is to be done decided, it can be advantageous to install a mark buoy on the line of
grappling to provide a good visual reference, even with modern navigation aids.
Next the mooring is installed, using a rig similar to that for the deep mooring described in
Volume 5, Section 19. The distance the anchor must be from the cable track must be
determined from trials, so that the anchor will not be pulled out of the bottom at the end of the
run. This installation is shown in figure 3.1.6(a).
On completion of the mooring installation, the cable ship backs across the cable track, paying
out mooring rope, until she is far enough on the other side of the cable track so that the
grapnel will be operating correctly when it crosses the track,
The grapnel is then lowered to the bottom, as shown in figure 3.1.6(b) and the run commenced,
using full ship's power ahead and pulling in on the mooring using one cable engine. The other
is used for the grappling. The speed should be less than half a knot during the run. This is
shown in figure 3.1.6(c). The length of grappling rope to ensure effective grappling is. as
before, determined from Volume 2, Section 4.1 of the handbook.
When the grapnel has crossed the cable track, it is recovered to check if the cable has been
caught. If necessary, mooring rope is paid out to keep the grapnel rope vertical to reduce loads
on the bight of cable possibly being raised, to a minimum, as shown in figure 3.1.6(d). If the
run is not successful it is repeated.
It should be noted that forces in grappling for plowed-in cable can be well above those in
normal grappling and extra care must be taken.
Plowed-in
cable track
Mooring Line of
rope grappling
Mark
buoy
Anchor
Fig. 3.1.6(a) Installation of Mark buoy and mooring.

Page 51
Page 52
Mooring Detrenching
rope grapnel
Plowed-in
cable track
Fig. 3.1.6(b) Lowering of grapnel in preparation for run.

Cable ship at
full ahead and
pulling in
mooring rope
against anchor
Cable being
pulled out
of bottom
by grapnel
Mooring
rope
Mark
buoy
Anchor
Fig. 3.1.6(c) Grappling run using mooring for additional pull.

Page 53
Page 54
Cable bight being lifted

with cable being pulled
out of bottom
Mooring
rope
Plowed-in
cable track
Fig. 3.1.6(d) Raising bight of plowed-in cable to surface.

Page 55
3.2 Grappling from a Lighter or Barge.
3.2.1 Technique.
Grappling from a lighter, or barge, is best suited to shallow, sheltered waters. Because it is a
somewhat adhoc arrangement dependent on the layout of the lighter, and whether the lighter is
powered or a tug will be needed to provide propulsion, it is not possible to provide a
definitive method as for a cable ship. For handling the grappling and working the cable, a
portable cable engine should be used, and there should be a powered capstan to aid in the
work. A bow sheave will be needed to work the grapnel rope and cable over the bow of the
lighter, and should be of a wide flat form so that the grapnel and cable can come inboard. The
following procedure should be considered only as a guide.
The grappling rig should consist of 3-1/2 or 4 inch circumference manila rope, to which is
attached a short length of 1/2 inch chain, which in turn is shackled to the grapnel. The lighter
gets underway and the rope is paid out over the bow sheave and when sufficient slack is paid
out so that about half the chain is in contact with the bottom, the cable engine is stopped, as
shown figure 3.2.1(a). After the grapnel crosses the cable track it should be recovered to
check if the cable has been caught, before commencing the next run.
If the cable is hooked, the rope should be slowly picked up while the lighter is allowed to
move back to a position where the rope will lift the cable vertically off the bottom. This will
result in the minimum tension in the rope and the cable as the bight is lifted to the surfaces
as shown in figure 3.2.1(b).
If the tension rises quickly during a run, the rope should be paid out a bit as the cable, or
perhaps a rocky bottom, may have been hooked, thus reducing the possibility of the loss of the
grapnel or breaking of the rope due to the sudden increase in tension. If the tension continues
to rise then the lighter should be brought to a stop and the grapnel recovered, so that the
situation can be assessed.
When the cable is brought to the bow sheave, it should be possible to bring it inboard and
attach stoppers prior to commencing the repair or recovery operations. Applying stoppers
outboard of the bow sheave should be avoided if possible, due to the low freeboard of a lighter.
If the cable cannot be bought inboard then it should be cut and each end recovered separately.
3.2.2 Selection of Grapnel.
A useful grapnel for all round use in light grappling is a small Rennie, made up with only two
sets of prongs. If a larger type of cable has to be grappled for, and the prongs on a Rennie are
not large enough, then a Boat's Centipede should be used ( see figure 3.2.2(a) ), in which case
there should not be much slack in the rope or this grapnel will continually hook up.
3.2.3 The Tug and the Lighter.
If a tug is used to propel the lighter ( or barge ) it should be lashed alongside the lighter for
grappling, as shown in figure 3.2.1(a). The tug should be of conventional design, that is, with
the screws at the stern, not of the vertical propeller or tractor type. The lighter should not be
towed ahead, unless the sea conditions do not allow laying alongside. The grappling should be
done as slowly as possible, that is less than half a knot, by continually stopping and starting
the tug if she cannot maintain very low speeds.
Page 56
Tug ( if lighter not self propelled )
Linear cable
engine Lighter or barge
Powered capstan
or similar
Bow sheave
Swivel 10 ton Grapnel
1/2 in. chain

3-1/2 or 4 in. circ. 20 ft - 6 m (typ )
Manila rope
Fig. 3.2.1(a) Arrangement of rig for grappling from a lighter or barge.

Page 57
Cable
Bight of cable being

Tension at lighter pulled out along
increasing bottom by grapnel
Bow of lighter
over cable track
Grapnel being
raised with cable
in prongs
Cable
Fig. 3.2.1(b) Capturing cable in grapnel and subsequent

raising to surface using lighter.
Page 58
3.2.4 Grappling from a Tug.
If it is necessary to grapple from the tug, the grapnel can be shackled directly to the end of
the tug's anchor chain ( after removing the anchor ). When the cable is brought to the surface,
a rope from the bow sheaves of the lighter can be made fast to the cable and the operation
continued on the lighter.
3.2.5 Grappling from a Boat.
If grappling in very shallow water with a boat only, and using oars, grappling should be done
over the stern, and there should be very little slack out. When a cable is caught, it should be
carefully lifted inboard over the stern to prevent capsizing. If the cable is too heavy, then it
should be buoyed and a more stable vessel found to provide a working platform.
72 in - 183 cm
( Typ )
Fig. 3.2.2(a) Boats Centipede ( Small

sliding prong grapnel )
Page 59
4. Cable Buoys and Moorings.
This chapter contains data on cable buoys, mooring components, mooring configurations and
calculations. The working of cable buoys from cable ships is described in Volume 5.
4.1 Usage.
Cable buoys are extensively used in survey, system installation, and cable repair. They are
used in two roles, as a Mark Buoy for navigation and as a Cable End Buoy to allow recovery of a
cable end without grappling.
The normal cable buoy used on cable ships is the Balloon Buoy, a specialized buoy developed
for cable work. The mooring for this buoy is also made up of specialized fittings and ropes,
which allow efficient working of the buoy and the mooring using the cable ship's cable
machinery. This allows balloon buoys to be moored in all water depths and be used with all
types of ocean cables.
For local repairs, using lighters, barges, etc., cable buoys of a barrel or cylindrical form are
normally used with a mooring commonly made up of locally available fittings and ropes. These
cable buoys are only used in very shallow water for short term moorings.
4.2 Mooring Components.
4.2.1 Cable buoys.
The standard buoy used in the laying and repair of ocean cables is the balloon buoy, however
in very shallow water for local repairs, cable buoys of a barrel or cylindrical form may be
used,
Balloon buoys are available in a range of sizes to accommodate the weight of moorings in
different water depths, and are classified by a number ( 0-0, 0, ---- , 7 ) or by a mean working
load ( 6-1/2 ton, 4 ton, ---- , 1-1/2 cwt. ).
The components of a fully rigged balloon buoy are shown in figure 4.2.1(a). There are
variations between balloon, or cable, buoys used by the various cable ship operators, some in
the areas of such as mast configuration, battery stowage ( for light ), and riding irons, while
others have a different shape for the buoy.
Figures 4.2.1(b) to 4.2.1(j) show the principal dimensions of typical balloon buoys and their
drafts at minimum and maximum working loads, with general data and usage given in table
4.2.1(a). Balloon buoy sizes 0-0, 0, 1, 2, 3. and 4 are normally carried on ocean going cable-
ships capable of working in all water depths, sizes 5, 6, and 7 are normally carried on
auxiliary cable ships working in shallower water. However with the use of synthetic rope in
the scopes, smaller balloon buoys can be used in deeper water.
The arrangement of a standard barrel buoy is shown in figure 4.2.1(k) with data given in table
4.2.1(b). Buoys of this type do not normally carry a mast or other fittings and can be used
from a variety of craft in very shallow water.
Page 60
Table 4.2.1(a).
Typical Balloon Buoys - General Data and Usage.
Size Type Weight Working Load Usage - grapnel rope as scope

________________________________________________________________________
0-0 6-1/2 ton 4350 lb 8250 - 13000 lbf Mark buoy
6.62 tonnes 1977 Kg 3750 - 5909 Kgf deep water
0 4 ton 3250 lb 6250 - 8250 lbf Cable end

4.07 tonnes 1477 Kg 2840 - 3750 Kgf deep water

3.05 tonnes 1318 Kg 2045 - 2840 Kgf up to 12600 ft - 3840 m

2.04 tonnes 900 Kg 1250 - 2045 Kgf up to 9600 ft -2930 m
3 1-1/4 ton 1250 lb 1500 - 2750 lbf Cable end

4 13 cwt. 950 lb 800 - 1500 lbf Cable end

5 7-1/2 cwt. 730 lb 500 - 800 lbf Cable end



________________________________________________________________________
Table 4.2.1(b).
Barrel Buoy - General Data.
Weight Load at 1/2 draft Usage

_______________________________________________
240 lb 310 lbf Local repairs
109 Kg 140 Kgf up to 240 ft - 73 m
_______________________________________________
Page 61
Buoy
lamp
Radar
reflector
Mast
Mast
support
Mast
mounting
Cap
Recovery
ring
Slip
hook (2)
Bumper
Body
Lower
baffle
Skirt
Riding
iron
Fig. 4.2.1(a) Typical Balloon Buoy components.

Page 62
206 in -
25.5 in - 90 in - 523 cm 65 in -
64.8 cm 229 cm 165 cm
274 cm
108 in -
Fig. 4.2.1(b) Cable buoys - No. 0-0 ( 6-1/2 ton ) Balloon Buoy.
min. draft, 8250 lbf - 3750 Kgf
max. draft, 13000 lbf - 5909 Kgf
193 in -
25.5 in - 82 in - 490 cm 57 in -
64.8 cm 208 cm 145 cm
92 in -
234 cm
Fig. 4.2.1(c) Cable buoys - No. 0 ( 4 ton ) Balloon Buoy.

max. draft, 8250 lbf - 3750 Kgf
Page 63
Page 64
179 in -
25.5 in - 78 in - 455 cm 50 in -
64.7 cm 198 cm 127 cm
80 in -
203 cm
Fig. 4.2.1(d) Cable buoys - No. 1 ( 3 ton ) Balloon Buoy.

171 in -
25.5 in - 75 in - 434 cm 42 in -
64.8 cm 191 cm 107 cm
72.5 in -
184.2 cm
Fig. 4.2.1(e) Cable Buoys - No. 2 ( 2 ton ) Balloon Buoy.

Page 65
Page 66
144 in -
13.5 in - 59 in - 366 cm 38.5 in -
34.3 cm 150 cm 97.8 cm
163.2 cm
64.25 in -
min. draft,
1500 lbf - 682 Kgf
max. draft,
2750 lbf - 1250 Kgf
Fig. 4.2.1(f) Cable buoys - No. 3 ( 1-1/4 ton ) Balloon Buoy.

129 in -
13.5 in - 54 in - 328 cm 27.5 in -
34.3 cm 137 cm 69.9 cm
54.5 in -
138.4 cm
min. draft,
800 lbf - 364 Kgf
max. draft,
1500 lbf - 682 Kgf
Fig. 4.2.1(g) Cable buoys - No. 4 ( 13 cwt. ) Balloon Buoy.

Page 67
Page 68
106 in -
69.25 in -
12 in - 42 in - 269 cm 28 in -
176.5 cm
10 in - 56 in - 30.5 cm 107 cm 71 cm
25 cm 142 cm
42 in -
184 cm
91 cm
36 in -
min. draft, min. draft,
350 lbf - 159 Kgf 500 lbf - 227 Kgf
max. draft, max. draft,
500 lbf - 227 Kgf 800 lbf - 364 Kgf
Fig. 4.2.1(h) Cable buoys - No. 5 ( 7-1/2 cwt. ) Balloon Buoy.
Fig. 4.2.1(i) Cable buoys - No. 6 ( 4-1/2 cwt. ) Balloon Buoy.

Page 69
100 lbf -45 Kgf
170 lbf - 77 Kgf

max. draft,
min. draft,
37 in -
94 cm
48.25 in -
122.5 cm
26.5 in -
20 cm
8 in -
67.3 cm
Fig. 4.2.1(j) Cable buoys - No. 7 ( 1-1/2 cwt. ) Balloon Buoy.

310 lbf - 189 Kgf
draft,
30 in -
76 cm
42 in -
107 cm
Fig. 4.2.1(k) Cable buoys - barrel buoy.

Page 70
4.2.2 Chain Assemblies.
Chain assemblies are used to attach the scope of the mooring to the cable buoy and to aid in
the recovery of the mooring.
For balloon buoys, the chain assembly consists of the riding leg, the bridle and the buoy
chain. The length, sizes and weights of standard assemblies are given in figure 4.2.2(a) and
table 4.2.2(a).
Barrel or cylindrical buoys normally have only a buoy chain, consisting typically of 3/4 inch
alloy chain with egg links each end, 8 ft - 2.4 m long and weighing 48 lbs - 22 Kg in air and 42
lbs - 19 Kg in water.
Table 4.2.2(a)
Weight of Typical Alloy Chain Assemblies for Balloon buoys.
Id Size Use Weight lb - Kg Used on

No inch in air in water balloon buoy
__________________________________________________________
1 3/4 Riding 120 - 55 105 - 48 4, 3
2 3/4 Bridle 180 - 113 155 - 71 4, 3
3 3/4 Buoy 355 - 161 305 - 139 4, 3
4 7/8 Riding 150 - 68 130 - 59 2, 1
5 7/8 Bridle 225 - 102 195 - 89 2, 1
6 7/8 Buoy 440 - 200 380 - 173 2, 1
7 1 Riding 195 - 89 170 - 99 0-0, 0
8 1 Bridle 295 - 134 255 - 116 0-0, 0
9 1 Buoy 585 - 266 505 - 230 0-0, 0
___________________________________________________________
4.2.3 Buoy Rope ( Main Section of Scope ).
Unless in very shallow water where the scope can consist entirely of chain, the main section of
the scope is made up of buoy rope, either the smaller sizes of grapnel rope or synthetic double
braided Nylon rope. This section of the scope is between the chain assemblies on the buoy and
the ground chain.
Grapnel rope can be used for the entire length of this section as it is tough enough to
withstand wear on the bottom. The synthetic double braided Nylon rope however can only be
used in the section of the scope that will not come in contact with the bottom with grapnel rope
being used in the lower section to provide the necessary wear resistance as shown in figure
4.2.3(a).
The advantage of the synthetic double braided Nylon rope is that its lighter weight in water
allows a lighter mooring to be installed and it is easier to work and stow than grapnel rope.
The strengths and weights of standard lengths of grapnel and double braided Nylon rope are
given in tables 4.2.3(a) and 4.2.3(b). The 3x3 and 4x3 sizes of grapnel rope are normally used
for buoy moorings, however the heavier sizes are sometimes used for mark buoys and wear
pieces on rough bottoms.
Assemblies
Trade Outside Inside

Length
No. size large end large end Use
large end links ft -m
inch link color link color
coupling links 1 3/4 20 - 6.1 Blue Red Riding
2 3/4 30 - 9.1 Green Red Bridle
3 3/4 60 - 18.3 White Red Buoy
4 7/8 20 - 6.1 Blue Black Riding
common links 5 7/8 30 - 9.1 Green Black Bridle
length 6 7/8 60 - 18.3 White Black Buoy
7 1 20 - 6.1 Blue Yellow Riding
E C 8 1 30 - 9.1 Green Yellow Bridle
C
9 1 60 - 18.3 White Yellow Buoy
Table of Sizes
F Trade Common Coupling links Large end links Weight Working

size links lb/ft load
inch C C D E F C D E F Kg/m lbf - Kgf
1/4 3/8 1/4
7/8 1 1 3 1 1 2 5 5.90 - 23000 -
3/4 25/32
2.68 10450
D 7/8 7/8 1 13/16 17/16 31/2 11/8 11/2 21/2 53/4 7.30 - 28750 -
3.32 13060
end and coupling links common links
1 11/8 13/8 15/8 4 11/4 15/8 21/2 61/2 9.65 - 38750 -
1
4.39 17610
Fig. 4.2.2(a) Typical alloy chain assemblies for use with Balloon Buoys.
Page 71
Page 72
It is often an advantage to use a shorter length of grapnel rope at the bottom of the mooring as
a wear piece, rather than wearing out the ends of full lengths of grapnel rope.
Part of scope not

subject to wear
( Typ. 40 ft - 12 m )
buoy in waves
for motion of
Allowance
Part of
scope subject
to wear
Fig. 4.2.3(a) Configuration of scope showing part subject

to wear on bottom.
Page 73
Table 4.2.3(a).
Weight and Strength of Grapnel ( Buoy ) Rope.
Rope Approx. weight lb/100 ft - Kg/100 m Proof load

size in air in water lbf - Kgf
__________________________________________________
3x3 45.7 - 68.0 26.3 - 39.2 new 20100 -
22.3 - 33.3 old 9136
4x3 58.3 - 87.0 35.0 - 52.2 new 26800 -
28.0 - 41.7 old 12180
6x3 103 - 15354.2 - 80.8 new 40300 -

48.7 - 72.6 old 18320
7x3 117 - 174 60.0 - 89.5 new 47000 -
57.7 - 86.0 old 21360
8x3 137 - 204 72.5 - 108 new 56000 -
64.7 - 96.4 old 25450
__________________________________________________
Table 4.2.3(b).
Weight and Strength of Typical Double Braided Nylon Rope.
( Samson 2-in-1 Super Strong Nylon )
Rope size Approx. weight lb/100 ft - Kg/100 m Strength

circ. in. in air in water lbf - Kgf
_____________________________________________________________
3-3/4 41.0 - 61.1 31.5 - 47.0 44200 - 20090
5 74.0 - 110.3 64.9 - 96.8 78200 - 35540
6 106.0 - 158.0 93.0 - 138.7 111000 - 50450
8-1/2 212.0 - 316.1 186.0 - 277.3 218000 - 99090
_____________________________________________________________
4.2.4 Ground Chain.
The ground chain is used at the bottom of the scope to provide the main wear resistance,
provide attachment to the anchors and if a cable end buoy, to the cable, and to increase the
holding power of the anchors.
Two types of chain can be used, an open link chain and a stud link chain. For moorings that
will be left for a considerable time, stud link chain should be used.
Page 74
Tables 6.2.4(a) and 6.2.4(b) give weights and strengths of standard sizes of the two types of
chain.
Table 4.2.4(a)
Weight and Strength of Open Link Alloy Chain to ASTM Spec A391-65
Size Max. working Weight lb/10 ft - Kg/10 m

inch load lbf - Kgf in air in water
____________________________________________________
3/4 22600 - 10270 55.6 - 82.8 48.2 -71.9
1 35800 - 16270 97.6 - 145.4 84.7 - 126.2

____________________________________________________
Table 4.2.4(b)
Weight and Strength of Stud Link Alloy Chain ( Grade 3 )
Size Breaking Weight lb/10 ft - Kg/10 m

inch load lbf - Kgf in air in water
___________________________________________________
1-1/4 184000 - 83640 150 - 224 130 - 194
1-1/2 262000 - 11910 215 - 321 186 - 277

___________________________________________________
4.2.5 Anchors.
The standard anchor used in cable work is the mushroom anchor. Two sizes are normally used,
the 1 cwt. and the 4 cwt. and are used either singly or in pairs. They are normally attached to
the ground chain by an anchor chain, typically 5/8 inch alloy chain, 30 ft - 10 m long with egg
links each end. The weights and holding power of the mushroom anchors is given in table
4.2.5(a). The anchor chain weighs 118 lb - 54 Kg in air and 102 lb - 46 Kg in water for the 5/8
inch size.
For mark buoys a Danforth or Lightweight anchor can be used, particularly in strong currents
where an anchor of high holding power and weight is required. Table 4.2.5(b) gives the weight
and holding power for the two commonly used sizes.
Page 75
Table 4.2.5(a)
Weight, Holding Power and Usage of Mushroom Anchors.
Type Weight lbs - Kg Holding power Used for

in air in water lbf - Kgf balloon buoy
_________________________________________________________________
1 cwt. 125 - 57 108 - 49 250 - 114 3, 4
4 cwt. 450 - 205 390 - 177 900 - 409 0-0, 0, l and 2

_________________________________________________________________
Table 4.2.5(b)
Weight and Holding Power of Danforth/Lightweight Anchors.
Anchor weight lbs - Kg Holding power lbf - Kgf

in air in water Mud Sand
_______________________________________________________
1000 - 455 870 - 395 6200 - 2818 45000 - 20455
5000 - 2273 4340 - 1973 15000 - 6818 110000 - 50000

_______________________________________________________
4.2.6 Underwater Swivels.
Underwater swivels are used in the mooring to allow components to rotate relative to one
another, preventing effects such as hockling and birdcaging which would reduce the strength
and life of the mooring or damage the cable on a cable end buoy.
The standard type of underwater swivel used is the sealed, pressure compensated ball bearing
design, with table 4.2.6(a) giving working loads and weights for Miller swivels of this types,
and table 4.2.6(b) for Tridente SKL type.
Page 76
Table 4.2.6(a)
Weight and Working Load for Miller Swivels.
Model Working load Weight lbs - Kg ( in air/in water)

tons lbf - Kgf Clevis ends Eye ends
________________________________________________________________________
B 1.5 3360 - 1527 2.0/1.7 - 0.9/0.8 2.0/1.7 - 0.9/0.8
C 3 6720 - 3055 5.0/4.2 - 2.3/1.9 5.0/4.2 - 2.3/1.9
D 5 11200 - 5090 10.0/8.4 - 4.5/3.8 10.0/8.4 - 4.5/3.8
EE 8.5 19050 - 8659 16.0/13.4 - 7.3/6.1 15.0/12.5 - 6.8/5.7
GG 15 33600 - 15270 43.0 /36.0 - 19.5/16.4 43.0/36.0 - 19.5/16.4
HH 35 78300 - 35590 85.0 /70.8 - 38.6/32.2 79.0/65.8 - 35.9/29.9
________________________________________________________________________
Table 4.2.6(b)
Weight and Working Load for SKL Swivels.
Model Maximum load Weight lbs - Kg

tonnes lbf - Kgf ( in air)
_______________________________________________________
SKL - 7/8-8 2.0 4400 - 2000 1.3 - 0.6
SKL - 10-8 3.2 7040 - 3200 2.6 - 1.2
SKL - 13-8 5.4 11880 - 5400 4.6 - 2.1
SKL - 16-8 8.0 17600 - 8000 10.1 - 4.6
SKL - 18/20-8 12.5 27500 - 12500 14.1 - 6.4
_______________________________________________________
Page 77
4.3 Mooring Configurations.
4.3.1 Rigging of Cable ( Balloon ) Buoys.
Independent of the function of the mooring, the rigging of the chain assemblies on a balloon
buoy for attachment to the scope remains the same. This arrangement, shown in figure 4.3.1(a),
allows the mooring to be transferred from the buoy to the cable ship during recovery, without
the need for the buoy to to carry the weight of the mooring while it is released from the buoy.
Recovery is by attaching a rope from the cable ships bow sheaves onto the bridle and then
slipping the riding leg, thus transferring the mooring from the buoy to the cable ship and
allowing recovery of the mooring to be done using the cable machinery. The buoy is then
recovered independently onto the buoy skids.
The size of the chain assemblies and shackles for the different balloon buoys is given in table
4.3.1(a). To ensure the integrity of this part of the mooring, all chain assemblies should be
checked prior to use and on recovery for wear and replaced if the wear is above the prescribed
amount. All shackles used in the mooring should be moused to prevent screw pins coming
undone under the oscillating mooring forces.
If the buoy is to be left for a considerable time, the bridle and riding leg should be served
with manila to prevent wear and puncturing the buoy.
For recovery using the ship's boat, no further rigging is required. For deck recovery, a
recovery line is required. The rigging of this is shown in figure 4.3.1(b). It should be noted
that if the buoy is to be left for a long period or will be in waters where interference is
possible, the recovery line should not be used and recovery done using the ship's boat.
The rigging of barrel or cylindrical buoys is simpler with only a buoy chain used. Recovery is
by an eye on the top of the buoy with the buoy being hoisted out of the water to recover the
mooring. Figure 4.3.1(c) shows a barrel buoy rigged with a buoy chain,
Table 4.3.1(a)
Size of Chain Assemblies and

Screw Pin Anchor Shackles for Balloon Buoys.
Buoy Chain assembly Shackle size

size size inch inch
______________________________
0-0 2 2
0 2 2
1 7/8 1-1/2
2 7/8 1-1/2
3 3/4 1-1/2
4 3/4 1-1/2
5 3/4 1
6 3/4 1
7 3/4 1
______________________________
Page 78
Bridle stopped to
mast support and
Slip hook recovery ring
Bridle or
lazy leg
Riding leg
or rider -
through
riding iron
to slip hook
Shackle
Buoy
chain
Fig. 4.3.1(a) Rigging of chain assemblies to balloon buoy.

Page 79
Rope reeved Inflatable balloon floats

through ( or fishing floats )
recovery ring
Polypropylene rope
1/2 in dia - 13 mm dia
typically 60 to 90 ft -
18 to 27 m long
Rope shackled
to riding iron 3x3 grapnel rope or
6x19 wire rope 7/16 or 1/2 in
- 11 to 13 mm dia
typically 90 ft - 27 m long
Fig. 4.3.1(b) Rigging of balloon buoy for deck recovery.

Page 80
Barrel
buoy
Buoy chain
typically
8 ft - 2.4 m
long
3/4 in alloy
Fig. 4.3.1(c) Rigging of buoy chain to barrel buoy.

Page 81
4.3.2 Mark Buoy Rigging.
The mark buoy is used to provide a reference point for navigation, and hence the mooring must
be such that the excursions of the buoy from the datum are the minimum practical under the
prevailing conditions.
The mooring configuration is shown in figure 4.3.2(a). If the mooring is in deep water,
additional underwater swivels should be included, spaced out along the scope about every
1000 ft - 300 m. In deep water the number 0-0 balloon buoy is traditionally used, but in
shallower water, or if double braided Nylon rope is used in the scope, smaller balloon buoys
may be more practical.
When strong currents exist, the mushroom anchors should be replaced with Danforth or
Lightweight anchors.
As the excursion, that is the watch circle, of a mark buoy must be minimal, the length of the
scope should ideally be equal to the water depth., In practice, allowance must be made for the
motion due to the sea and wind and current drags so the scope will be slightly more than the
water depth, For a chain scope ( very shallow water ) or a grapnel rope scope there is very
little stretch, but if synthetic double braided Nylon rope is included, the scope can be
shortened and the elasticity of this rope used to provide the allowance for the motion of the
buoy.
Page 82
Buoy chain
Side rope ( if required ) grapnel

or double braided nylon rope
Underwater swivel
Scope - main section -

chain, grapnel or double
braided nylon rope
Ground chain 60 ft - 18 m long
Anchor - mushroom,
Danforth or Lightweight
Fig. 4.3.2(a) Mooring configuration for mark buoy.

Page 83
4.3.3 Cable End Buoy Rigging.
The cable end buoy is used to allow access to a cable end during system installation or repair,
without the need to grapple it up from the bottom. Two systems of buoying the end can be used,
the cable can be attached to the buoy and act as the scope, or a proper mooring can be laid with
the cable end attached to the bottom end of the moor.
The buoying of the cable end with the cable used as scope, shown in figure 4.3.3(a), is the
simplest of the two configurations and is readily deployed or recovered. However, there are
several disadvantages to this configuration, as there are no anchors the cable can be dragged
across the bottom causing wear and possibly damage thus making it unsuitable for leaving in
place for any considerable time.
It is not well suited to ocean cables susceptible to low cycle fatigue, such as armorless coaxial
cables and optical fiber cables, and is best suited to armored multiconductor cables. For
system reliability, when the buoy is recovered, a length of cable equal to at least twice the
water depth should be cut from the cable end to exclude possibly damaged cable from the
system installation or repair.
The rigging of the cable end to the buoy ( figure 4.3.3(a) ) is relatively straight forward,
Double stoppers should be used to provide a degree of safety to allow for the jerking loads
applied by the buoy as it moves in the ocean waves.
Care must be taken to check that the ocean cable has adequate strength to support itself as a
mooring. A safety factor of at least 3 on ' wh' would appear advisable,
The buoying of the cable end with a proper mooring, shown in figure 4.3.3(b), is more complex
but provides a robust mooring and minimizes the chance of damage to the cable. The only
disadvantage is the longer time to deploy or recover and the need to handle anchors,
The mooring can be adjusted to suit all ocean cables and water depths and can be left in place
for a considerable time, making it not only suitable for repair but for buoying an end during
system installation, while the cable ship returns to port to load another section of the system.
The rigging of the mooring ( figure 4.3.3(b) can be broken into four sections: the buoy and
chain assemblies, the main section of the scope, the ground tackle and the attachment to the
cable. The rigging of the cable buoy and chain assemblies is given in section 4.3.1.
The main section of the scope in very shallow water ( less than 20 fathoms ) can consist of
chain with no side rope, An underwater swivel is still required and this is attached between
the buoy chain and the chain in the main section of the scope,
For deeper water the main section of the scope consists of grapnel rope or double braided
Nylon rope and grapnel rope. A side rope is normally used to allow easier handling of the
mooring during deployment. An underwater swivel is used either between the buoy chain and
the side rope or between the side rope and the main section of the scope. In deep water,
additional underwater swivels should be included, typically between every second length of
rope, that is every 6000 ft - 1829 m.
The ground tackle consists of the ground chain, normally 60 ft - 18 m long, to which are
attached one or two mushroom anchors with anchor chain. These anchors are normally attached
at about the mid point of the ground chain. The use of two mushroom anchors is normally only
done in areas where strong currents exist or where the bottom does not provide good holding
power for anchors.
Page 84
Buoy chain
Side rope, grapnel or double

braided Nylon rope
Underwater swivel
Preventer 20 ft - 6 m long
7/8 in chain or 3/4 in dia wire rope
Stoppers
BTL or Preformed
Cable
Fig. 4.3.3(a) Mooring configuration for cable end buoy

with cable as scope.
Page 85
The cable is attached to the end of the ground chain by stoppers, swivel and a length of
grapnel rope. Two stoppers are normally used for safety, with a preventer joining them
together. The swivel is shackled to the end stopper and the preventer, and ensures that any
rotation of the mooring during deployment or recovery is not transmitted to the cable. The
length of the grapnel rope varies from as short as 120 ft - 36 m for a short term mooring
during repair to 1 n. mile for moorings left for a considerable period. The advantage of the
longer length is that if the buoy mooring fails, the grapnel rope can be grappled for thus
reducing the amount of damage done to the cable.
The total length of the scope of the mooring ( chain assemblies, side rope, main section of the
scope, and ground chain to anchors ) varies with water depth. In shallow water the length
should be between 2 and 3 times the water depth ( greater in stronger currents ) while in deep
water, greater than 1 n. mile the length should be reduced to between 1.25 and 1.5 times the
water depth.
Page 86
Buoy chain
Side rope - grapnel or

double braided Nylon rope
Underwater swivel
Scope - main section- chain, grapnel

or double braided Nylon rope
Preventer
Ground chain 30 ft - 9 m long
60 ft - 18 m long 7/8 in chain or
3/4 in dia wire rope
Grapnel rope
Cable
Anchor chain(s) Underwater

30 ft - 9 m long swivel Stoppers
BTL or Preformed
Mushroom
anchor(s)
Fig. 4.3.3(b) Mooring configuration for cable end buoy.

Page 87
4.4 Mooring Calculations.
4.4.1 Mooring Weight and Strength.
The primary calculation for cable buoy moorings is the weight of the mooring, which must be
within the range specified for the buoy size. The secondary calculation is the check of the
strength of the mooring.
The weight of the mooring includes the chain assemblies, the scope, the ground chain and
anchors. The normal practice is to select components considered suitable for the mooring, find
their weight and select a suitable buoy. After this is done components are checked to see if
they are compatible with the buoy, if not, they must be changed and the weight checked again.
The strength of the components in the mooring should be compatible with the buoyancy of the
buoy at submergence ( see table 4.4.2(c) ).
Example: It is required to buoy a cable end in one n. mile depth of water. Find suitable
components for the mooring using grapnel rope for the scope.
Initial components for the scope:
a. Riding leg, bridle, buoy chain 3/4 inch, total length in scope 80 feet.
b. Side rope 3x3 grapnel, length 110 feet.
c. Main section of scope 3x3 grapnel length ? ( X ).
d. Ground chain 1 inch alloy length in scope 30 feet.
Total length of scope = 220 + X feet
Water depth = 1 n. mile = 6076 feet.
Length of scope to water depth = 1.25 to 1.5
Determine length of grapnel rope required to complete scope:
Total scope length 7595 to 9114 feet.

Main section of scope 7375 to 8894 feet.
Using 3000 feet lengths of 3x3 plus 1500 foot wear piece at bottom.
= 2 lengths of 3000 feet plus 1500 feet = 7500 feet.
Calculate weights with one 4 cwt. mushroom anchor:
Component weights:
a. Chain assemblies 3/4 inch

Riding leg = 105 lbs
Bridle = 155 lbs
Buoy chain = 305 lbs
Total = 565 lbs
Page 88
b. Side rope 3x3 grapnel

= 40 lbs
c. Main section of scope 2x3000 feet + lX 1500 feet 3x3 grapnel ( table 4.2.3(a) )
= 2.5 x 790
= 1975 lbs
d. Ground chain 60 feet 1 inch alloy ( table 4.2.4(a) )

= 762 x 2/3
= 508 lbs
e. Anchor lx4 cwt. mushroom plus 30 feet 1 inch chain ( table 4.2.5(a) )
= 390 + 102
= 492 The
f. Miller swivels 2 off ( table 4.2.6(a) )

= 2 x 31
= 62 lbs
Total weight of mooring excluding shackles

= 565+40+1975+508+492+62
= 3642 lbs
Balloon buoy size ( table 4.2.1(a) )

= No. 2 ( 2750 - 4500 lbs )
However a No. 2 balloon buoy requires 7/8 inch chain assemblies: redo weight.
Chain assemblies 7/8 inch

Riding leg = 130 lbs
Bridle = 195 lbs
Buoy chain = 380 lbs
Total = 705 lbs
Revised weight of mooring

= 3782 lbs
This is still within No. 2 balloon buoy weight range.
Check strength - No. 2 balloon buoy at submergence has buoyancy ( table 4.4.2(c) )
= 8000 lbf
All components in mooring are stronger than 8000 lbf hence mooring is as originally
selected except for 3/4 inch chain assemblies being replaced by 7/8 inch chain
assemblies.
Page 89
4.4.2 Estimation of Drag on Balloon Buoys and Moorings.
The estimation of the drag on balloon buoys and mooring due to currents is used to check that
the holding power of the anchors used is sufficient. The following is a quick method for times
when a more accurate method is not available.
The estimation of drag is split into the drag of the balloon buoy and chain assemblies and, to
keep the calculations simple, only the drag of the section of the mooring in the surface current
is considered.
'The approximate factor f = 12 ! CD A for current speed V in knots is given in tables 4.4.2(a)
and 4.4.2(b) for balloon buoys and chain assemblies, and for mooring ropes, respectively.
Table 4.4.2(a)
Approximate Factor f = 12 ! CD A with V in Knots for Drag

of Balloon Buoys with Chain Assemblies.
Buoy Factor f for

size Drag in lbf Drag in Kgf
_________________________________
0-0 197 90
0 176 80
1 148 67
2 141 64
3 115 52
4 108 49
5 102 46
6 99 45
7 94 43
_________________________________
Table 4.4.2(b)
Approximate Factor f = 12 ! CD A with V in Knots for Drag

of 100 ft. - 100 m. Length of Mooring Ropes.
Rope Factor f for

size Drag in lbf Drag in Kgf
_________________________________
4x3 grapnel 38.5 57.4
3x3 grapnel 30.0 44.6
3-3/4 Nylon 38.5 57.4

_________________________________
Page 90
Example: Find the approximate bottom drag of a Number 2 balloon buoy moored in a depth of
1 n. mile with a surface current of 2 knots down to a depth of 0.1 n. miles. Check that a single
4 cwt. mushroom anchor is sufficient, mooring rope is 3x3 grapnel.
Drag of balloon buoy and chain assemblies:
Db =V 2 " f
= 2 2 "141
= 564 lbf
Depth to bottom of buoy chain:
= 80 ft. ( approximately )
Length of 3x3 grapnel rope in surface current
= 600 # 80
= 520 ft.
Drag of section of mooring in surface current:
Dm =V 2 " f " 520 100

= 2 2 " 30" 5.2
= 624 lbf
Total bottom drag:
Dt = Db + Dm
= 564+ 624
= 1188 lbf
Holding power of 4 cwt. mushroom anchor neglecting the ground chain = 900 lbf. Hence a
single 4 cwt. mushroom anchor is inadequate and two 4 cwt. mushroom anchors must be used.
If the calculations are done using a 2 dimensional surface mooring program, the total bottom
drag is approximately 780 lbf, that is, the above method for this case will overestimate the
bottom drag by 50%. Hence this method will overestimate the bottom drag of a balloon buoy
mooring, which is to be desired.
The other consideration is the possibility that the balloon buoy may be submerged by the
current. If the mooring meets the calculations done in section 4.4.1, this is unlikely. The most
likely result if the current is higher than expected, is that the buoy will drag its anchor(s).
Page 91
4.5 IALA Maritime Buoyage System Relating to Cable Buoys.
Under the IALA Maritime Buoyage System cable buoys are categorized as "Special Marks".
The color of cable buoys is yellow, with the buoy lamp giving a yellow light. The rhythm of the
lamp may be any, other than those for white lights of Cardinal, Isolated Danger and Safe Water
marks. Permitted examples are: group occulating, single flashing, group flashing with a group
of 4 or 6 flashes, composite group or Morse code group,
Appendices.
Page A1
A. Characteristics of Grapnel and Buoy Ropes.
A.1 General.
The following description of the characteristics of grapnel and buoy ropes is based on the U.S.
Military Specification MIL-W-19460B(SHIPS). This specification is typical of most grapnel
and buoy ropes. However, it should be noted that some grapnel and buoy ropes use a different
covering on the wires which has a greasy feel and results in a lower coefficient of friction with
the cable machinery, particularly drum type cable engines. This may require an additional
turn on the drum, or a higher holdback/draw-off tension to prevent slipping.
The size designation of grapnel and buoy ropes is given in table A.1(a).
Table A.1(a)
Rope Size Designations.
Rope Size Designation Strands Wires per Approximate Diameter

Strand Inches
Grapnel 9 by 5 5 9 2-3/8
9 by 4 4 9 2-3/32
8 by 3 3 8 1-5/8
7 by 3 3 7 1-1/2
6 by 3 3 6 1-3/8
Buoy 4 by 3 3 4 1-1/8
3 by 3 3 3 7/8
A.2 Construction.
A.2.1 General.
Grapnel and buoy ropes are compound stranded, with each strand containing full diameter,
high tensile wires, each wire being separately covered in Manila yarn.
Grapnel and Buoy ropes are normally supplied in standard lengths of 600 feet, 1200 feet, and
3000 feet, without splices, welds or joints of any kind.
At each end of a length of grapnel and buoy rope there is fitted an end link-thimble assembly.
These fitting are spliced onto the rope by a loop or eye splice. The splice has at least three
tucks with the whole strand, and two with half the wires cut from each strand, and laid under
and over against the lay of the rope. The splice is served with tarred hemp round line.
Page A2
A.2.2 Steel Wires.
The wires used in all sizes of grapnel rope are 0.106 inches in diameter, high tensile steel.
They are galvanized or zinc coated and conform to the following requirements:
Tensile strength - 2150 lbf, minimum breaking strength.

Elongation - 5 percent minimum, in 10 inches after fracture.
A.2.3 Link-Thimble Assemblies.
The end links are made of heat treated forged steel. The thimbles are made from cast steel. The
proof loads for the link-thimble assemblies is given in table A.2.3(a).
Table A.2.3(a)
Proof Loads for Link-Thimble Assemblies.
Rope Size Proof Loads

Designation lbf.
9 by 5 105,000
9 by 4 80,000
8 by 3 56,000
7 by 3 47,000
6 by 3 40,300
4 by 3 26,800
3 by 3 20,100
A.2.4 Fiber Parts.
Manila yarn is used to cover the individual wires. It is typically No. 18 yarn with a breaking
strength of not less than 300 lbf., and is untanned, free from tars, oils and grease.
Jute is used as the stand core. It is long fiber, acid free and of sufficient density to support
the wires of the strands of each rope. Table A.2.4(a) shows the makeup of the cores.
Page A3
Table A.2.4(a)
Jute Strand Core.
Rope Size Cores

Designation
9 by 5 11 ply, 180 lbs.
9 by 4 11 ply, 180 lbs.
8 by 3 11 ply, 180 lbs.
7 by 3 3/8 in. dia., 3 strand
6 by 3 9 ply, 180 lbs.
4 by 3 5/32 in. dia., 3 strand

3 by 3 No core
A.2.5 Detail Construction.
Each wire is separately and completely covered with five manila yarns, tightly and evenly laid
with a left lay of approximately 3 inches. The wires are laid with a right hand lay to form the
strands, and the stands are laid up in a left hand lay to form the rope. The length of the lay for
the wires and stands is shown in table A.2.5(a). Except for the 3 x 3 rope, all ropes have a jute
care, as shown in table A.2.4(a). The 9 by 4 and the 9 by 5 construction also have a 3-strand
jute core in each rope strand.
The finished ropes have a breaking strength not less than that shown in table A.2.5(b).
Table A.2.5(a)
Length of Lay ( Pitch ).
Length of Turn
Rope Size
Designation Rope Strand Yarn
inches inches inches
9 by 5 16-1/2 10 3
9 by 4 15-1/2 10 3
8 by 3 9 7 3
7 by 3 11-1/2 8-1/4 3
6 by 3 8 6 3
4 by 3 7-1/2 4-1/2 3
3 by 3 6-1/2 5-1/4 3
Page A4
Table A.2.5(b)
Minimum Rope Breaking Strengths.
Minimum
Rope Size Breaking
Designation Strength
lbf.
9 by 5 105,000
9 by 4 80,000
8 by 3 56,000
7 by 3 47,000
6 by 3 40,300
4 by 3 26,800
3 by 3 20,100
Page A5
B. Balloon Buoys and Mooring Characteristics.
B.1 General.
The following values are for the balloon buoys and components described in Chapter 4. They
are for use in mooring calculations.
B.2 Balloon Buoys
The dimensions. working loads and approximate submergence loads, length of release to draft
and form drag coefficient are given in tables B.2(a), B.2(b), B.2(c) and B.2(d) respectively.
The form drag coefficient is based on cylinder projecting from wall with an aspect ratio ( a/r )
of 1.0 - 1.7. It is also used for submergence form drag coefficient as no other information is
available. Wave making drag is not determined, both for a lack of data, and because the major
drag effects are on the mooring.
Table B.2(a)
Balloon Buoy Dimensions.
Nominal Mean Reference a/r = Reference

Size Draft Dia. Area Draft/ Area - Submerged
ft.- m. ft.- m. sq. ft.- sq. m. Mean Dia. sq. ft.- sq. m.
_____________________________________________________________________
0-0 8.0 - 2.44 7.0 - 2.13 56.0 - 5.21 1.14 87.0 - 8.09
0 7.0 - 2.13 5.8 - 1.77 40.6 - 3.77 1.21 63.0 - 5.86
1 6.4 - 1.95 5.0 - 1.52 32.0 - 2.97 1.28 49.0 - 4.55
2 6.0 - 1.83 4.5 - 1.37 27.0 - 2.51 1.33 41.0 - 3.81
3 4.8 - 1.46 4.0 - 1.22 19.2 - 1.78 1.2 30.0 - 2.79
4 4.2 - 1.28 3.5 - 1.07 14.7 - 1.37 1.2 23.0 - 2.14
5 4.1 - 1.25 2.6 - 0.79 10.7 - 0.99 1.6 16.0 - 1.49
6 3.4 - 1.04 2.5 - 0.76 8.5 - 0.79 1.4 12.0 - 1.12
7 2.0 - 0.61 1.8 - 0.55 3.6 - 0.33 1.1 5.5 - 0.51
_____________________________________________________________________
Page A6
Table B.2(b)
Working Loads, Approx. Submergence Load.
Working Load Approx. Submergence

Size Min. Max. Load
lbf.- Kgf lbf.- Kgf. lbf.- Kgf.
___________________________________________________
0-0 8250 - 3750 13000 - 5909 25000 - 11363
0 6250 - 2840 8250 - 3750 15500 - 7045
1 4500 - 2045 6250 - 2840 11000 - 5000
2 2750 - 1250 4500 - 2045 8000 - 3636
3 1500 - 682 2750 - 1250 5300 - 2409
4 800 - 364 1500 - 682 3000 - 1364
5 500 - 227 800 - 364 1500 - 682
6 350 - 159 500 - 227 950 - 432
7 100 - 45 170 - 77 340 - 155
___________________________________________________
Table B.2(c)
Length from Release to Draft.
Size Length
ft.- m.
_______________
0-0 10.8 - 3.29
0 9.2 - 2.80
1 8.4 - 3.42
2 8.0 - 2.44
3 6.6 - 2.01
4 5.6 - 1.71
5 5.0 - 1.52
6 5.4 - 1.65
7 3.6 - 1.10
_______________
Table B.2(d)
Form Drag Coefficient.
Cdf
___
0.55
___
Page A7
B.3 Chain Assemblies ( Alloy Chain Grade 3 ).
The characteristics of the chain assemblies, lengths for mooring and normal drag coefficient
are given in tables B.3(a). B.3(b), and B.3(c) respectively.
Table B.3(a)
Characteristics of Alloy Chain Grade 3.

( Baldt )
Size Diameter Weight Proof Load

Air Water
inch in. - ft. - m. lb./ft.- Kg/m. lb./ft.- Kg/m. lbf - Kgf
__________________________________________________________________
1 3-9/16 - 0.30 - 0.091 9.56 - 14.25 8.29 - 12.36 83600 - 38000
7/8 3-1/2 - 0.26 - 0.079 7.33 - 10.93 6.36 - 9.48 64400 - 29270
3/4 2-5/8 - 0.22 - 0.067 5.33 - 7.95 4.62 - 6.89 47600 - 21640
__________________________________________________________________
Note: diameter is the width of a link ( Baldt )
Table B.3(b)
Chain Assembly Lengths.
Size Total length from release Length

( Riding a plus Buoy ) Bridle
inch ft. - m. ft. - m.
____________________________________
1 80 - 24.4 30 - 9.1
7/8 80 - 24.4 30 - 9.1
3/4 80 - 24.4 30 - 9.1
____________________________________
Table B.3(c)
Normal Drag Coefficient.
CDn
___
1.3
___
Note : Normal drag coefficient from Program NOYFB.

Page A8
B.4 Side Rope
The characteristics of side ropes are given in tables B.4(a) and B.4(b).
Table B.4(a)
Grapnel Rope Characteristics.

( MIL-W-19460B(SHIPS) )
Size Diameter Weight Proof Load Normal Drag

in Water Coefficient
in. - ft. - m. lbs/ft - Kg/m lbf - Kgf CDn
_________________________________________________________________________
3x3 7/8 - 0.073 - 0.022
0.26 - 0.39 ( new ) 20100 - 9136 1.44
0.22 - 0.33 ( old )
4x3 1-1/8 - 0.094 - 0.029 0.35 - 0.52 ( new ) 26800 - 12180 1.44
0.28 - 0.42 ( old )
_________________________________________________________________________
Note: Normal drag coefficient from NCSC TM 471-87.
Table B.4(b)
Double Braided Nylon Rope Characteristics.


in Water ( SRT ) Coefficient
inch in. - ft. - m. lbs/ft - Kg/m lbf - Kgf CDn
_________________________________________________________________________
3-3/4 1-1/4 - 0.104 - 0.0320.41 - 0.61 ( air ) 44200- 20090 1.3
0.041 - 0.061 ( water )
_________________________________________________________________________

Page A9
B.5 Main Section of Scope.
The characteristics of main section of the scope are given in tables B.5(a) and B.5(b).
Table B.5(a)


_________________________________________________________________________
3x3 7/8 - 0.073 - 0.022
0.26 - 0.39 ( new ) 20100 - 9136 1.44
0.22 - 0.33 ( old )
4x3 1-1/8 - 0.094 - 0.029 0.35 - 0.52 ( new ) 26800 - 12180 1.44
0.28 - 0.42 ( old )
_________________________________________________________________________
Table B.5(b)
Double Braided Nylon Rope Characteristics.


in Water ( SRT ) Coefficient
inch in. - ft. - m. lbs/ft - Kg/m lbf - Kgf CDn
_________________________________________________________________________
3-3/4 1-1/4 - 0.104 - 0.0320.41 - 0.61 ( air ) 44200- 20090 1.3
0.041 - 0.061 ( water )
_________________________________________________________________________

Page A10
B.6 Wear Piece.
The characteristics of wear piece is given in table B.6(a).
Table B.6(a)


_________________________________________________________________________
3x3 7/8 - 0.073 - 0.022
0.26 - 0.39 ( new ) 20100 - 9136 1.44
0.22 - 0.33 ( old )
4x3 1-1/8 - 0.094 - 0.029 0.35 - 0.52 ( new ) 26800 - 12180 1.44
0.28 - 0.42 ( old )
_________________________________________________________________________
B.7 Ground Chain ( Alloy Chain Grade 3 ).
The characteristics of the ground chain and its normal drag coefficient are given in tables
B.7(a) and B.7(b), respectively.
Table B.7(a)
Characteristics of Alloy Chain Grade 3.

( Baldt )
Size Diameter Weight Proof Load

Air Water
inch in. - ft. - m. lb./ft.- Kg/m. lb./ft.- Kg/m. lbf - Kgf
__________________________________________________________________
1 3-9/16 - 0.30 - 0.091 9.56 - 14.25 8.29 - 12.36 83600 - 38000
7/8 3-1/2 - 0.26 - 0.079 7.33 - 10.93 6.36 - 9.48 64400 - 29270
3/4 2-5/8 - 0.22 - 0.067 5.33 - 7.95 4.62 - 6.89 47600 - 21640
__________________________________________________________________
Note: diameter is the width of a link ( Baldt )

Page A11
Table B.7(b)
Normal Drag Coefficient.
CDn
___
1.3
___
B.8 Anchor Chain - Mushroom Anchors.
The characteristics of the anchor chains for the mushroom anchors is given in table B.8(a).
Table B.8(a)
Anchor Chain Characteristics.
Size Length Weight

inch ft. - m. lb. - Kg.
_________________________________
5/8 30 - 9.15 118 - 53.6 ( air )
102 - 46.4 ( water )
_________________________________
Page A12
B.9 Anchors.
The characteristics of mushroom and Danforth/Lightweight anchors is given in table B.9(a).
Table B.9(a)
Characteristics of Anchors.
Type Size Weight Holding Power

lbs - Kg lbf - Kgf
_____________________________________________________________
Mushroom 1 cwt 125 - 57 ( air ) 250 - 114
108 - 49 ( water ) 900 - 409
Mushroom 4 cwt 450 - 205 ( air )
390 - 177 ( water )
Danforth/ 1000 lbs 1000 - 455 ( air ) 6200 - 2818 ( mud )

Lightweight 870 - 395 ( water ) 45000 - 20454 ( sand )
Danforth/ 5000 lbs 5000 - 2273( air ) 15000 - 6818 ( mud )

Lightweight 4350 - 1977 ( water ) 110000 - 50000 ( sand )
_____________________________________________________________
Page A13
C. Splicing Grapnel and Buoy Rope.
C.1 Introduction.
This chapter contains the methods for splicing grapnel and buoy ropes, suitable for ship
board use.
C.2 Splicing Grapnel and Buoy Rope ( Wire Construction ).
C.2.1 Introduction.
Grapnel ( and buoy ) rope is one of the hardest ropes to splice and for this reason it is normal
to have most grapnel ropes spliced at the rope factory. However, it is sometimes necessary to
splice grapnel rope on the cable ship and this can be done successfully as long as care is
taken. The only splice for grapnel rope is the eye splice. The method described is for a three
strand grapnel rope ( 3x3, 4x3, 6x3, 7x3 and 8x3 ). For the grapnel ropes with more strands (
9x4 and 9x5 ), the method is essentially the same, though the jute strand core must be cut off
just before the throat.
Note: The method described is for a three stranded left hand lay rope, as are all grapnel
ropes. For more strands the method is the same but with more tucks. ( For right hand lays, the
order of selection of the strands is reversed. )
C.2.2 Equipment.
Type Description
Portable Requires tungsten carbide blade for wires in grapnel rope.

bandsaw
Fid Tubular fid to suit grapnel rope.
Rigger's vise Special vise to suit grapnel rope with bench.
Link-thimble To suit grapnel rope.

assembly
Other equipment required includes small blocks and tackle, serving mallets, knife, serving
yarn and lashing wire.
Page A14
C.2.3 Procedure.
Stage 1. Figure C.2.3(a).
The point where the link-thimble is to be spliced is marked on the rope. The link-thimble and
grapnel rope are placed in the rigger's vise and the jaws tightened to form the rope around the
thimble.
The short tail is then cut off with the bandsaw, allowing adequate length for six tucks. The
short tail is unraveled and its ends bound.
Because of the very springy and tough nature of grapnel rope, care should be exercised in
setting the rope around the thimble in the rigger's vise. This may be made easier if the rope is
first bent into a larger soft eye and the throat lashed to hold it in place before putting it into
the riggers vise.
Link
Short tail
Thimble ( unraveled )
Long tail
Clamp on
Rigger's vice
( Rest of vice
omitted for
clarity )
Fig. C.2.3(a).
Page A15
Page A16
Stage 2. Figures C.2.3(b) and C.2.3(c).
Select from the unraveled short tail the strand which will lie easiest across the top of the long
tail. Now select one strand on the top ot the long tail close to the throat, but not so close as to
prevent opening the strands. Mark these strands.
Now using a whipping around the long tail, and a block and tackle ( or a special tool ), twist
the strands in the long tail to open them. Take the tubular fid and push it under the selected
top strand ( and over the other two), until it is about halfway through.
The selected strand on the short tail is pushed into the fid as far as it will go, and then both
are pushed through the long tail until the fid is clear. The short tail strand is now pulled
through the long tail, though not fully so that slack remains to allow working of the other
strands. It may be necessary to use a block and tackle to pull the strand through.
Twist tail to
open strands
Tubular fid inserted

through top strand
Fig. C.2.3(b).
Page A17
Page A18
Pull short tail

strand under the
strand on long tail
Fig. C.2.3(c).
Page A19
Stage 3. Figure C.2.3(d).
Take the tubular fid and insert it under the next strand in the long tail. This strand is the one
in the clockwise direction from the previous one, looking along the long tail towards the
thimble. It may be necessary to open the strands in the long tail further to allow the fid to
enter.
Now take the next strand in the short tail ( in the clockwise direction) and insert it into the
fid and pull it through the long tail, as for the first strand.
Page A20
Insert this
Tubular fid inserted stand into fid
Hollow under next strand in
end long tail ( clockwise )
Fig. C.2.3(d).
Page A21
Stage 4. Figures C.2.3(e) and C.2.3(f).
Insert the tubular fid under the third strand in the long tail and take the last strand in the
short tail under the long tail and up into the end ot the fid and then pull through as before.
To finish the first tuck, all strands in the short tail are now pulled tight and seated into the
long tail. In order to accomplish this, it may be necessary to use a serving mallet and a block
and tackle.
Note that this third strand comes around under the long tail before going under the strand in
the long tail.
Page A22
Take last strand

under long tail
and insert into fid
Tubular fid
inserted under
third strand
in long tail
Fig. C.2.3(e).
Pull all three short
tail strands tight
to ensure snug fit
in throat
Fig. C.2.3(f)
Page A23
Page A24
Stage 5. Figure C.2.3(g).
To form the second tuck, take the first strand used from the short tail over the next strand
then under the the following in the long tail, using the tubular fid as before. It may be
necessary to further twist the long tail to open up the strands.
Repeat for the other two strands in the short tail, then pull all three strands tight and work
them so that they are symmetrical.
Repeat the operation again for completes the section of the splice the third tuck. This is which
takes the load.
Take short tail strand
over next long tail
strand then under
Twist long tail

to open strands
Fig. C.2.3(g).
Page A25
Page A26
Stage 6. Figure C.2.3(h).
After completing the third tuck, take each of the strands of the short tail where they protrude
from the long tail, open the strands and cut oft approximately halt the wires in as symmetrical
manner as possible, using the bandsaw. Now reduce the size ot the jute core and remake the
strand.
No wire should be cut off closer than one inch from the end of the third tuck. It may be
advantageous to stagger the reduction of the wires in the strands to obtain a smoother taper.
First three tucks
completed
Taper short
tail strands
Fig. C.2.3(h).
Page A27
Page A28
Stage 7. Figure C.2.3(i).
Complete three more tucks with the tapered strands. Then cut off the tapered strands and bury
them into the long tail to complete the splice.
If desired, the splice can be whipped to give a smoother outer surface and provide additional
protection to the splice.
Complete three tucks of tapered
strands and bury ends in long tail
Fig. C.2.3(i).
Page A29
Page A30
C.3 Splicing Buoy ( Braided) Rope.
C.3.1 Introduction.
The splicing of braided rope is relatively straightforward for smaller sizes, becoming more
difficult as the size of the rope increases. The splices normally used in this class of ropes are
the eye splice and the end for end splice. For moorings of cable buoys and other cable working
uses, these ropes are normally made up with a link-thimble in the eye splice.
The method descried below can be used with both single and double braided ropes.
C.3.2 Tools Needed.
C.3.2.1 Rope Diameters 1 inch - 25 mm. and Smaller.
For each size of rope there is a different sized tubular fid. The fid along with the pusher is
used to insert the cover into the core and vice versa. The fid is also the measuring device. The
scribe marks indicate the short section of the fid.
Figure C.3.2.1(a) shows the tubular fid, pusher and method ot inserting cover or core into fid.
Short Sect. Pinch

Fid of Fid taped end
to insert
in fid
Pusher
Tape
Fig. C.3.2.1(a) Tubular fid, pusher and method for

inserting cover or core into fid.
C.3.2.2 Rope Diameters 1 inch - 25 mm. and Over.
For splicing ropes of larger diameters, only a metal wire fid is used, a pusher is not needed.
As with the tubular fid, there is a different sized fid for each size of rope. Cover and center
measurements are made with the wire fid in the same manner as the tubular fids. However, to
keep wire fids to a reasonable size, they are made in 1/2 and 1/3 size and the measurements
using them must be multiplied by 2 or 3, as the size dictates.
Page A31
C.3.2.3 Use of Wire Fid.
Figure C.3.2.3(a) shows the wire fid. To insert the wire fid, tightly tape the end of the braided
cover or core, after extraction; press prongs of fid into cover or core just behind the tape, as in
figure C.3.2.3(b).
Tape the wire fid to the braid by wrapping in a tight, smooth, spiral, starting on the braid and
wrapping in the direction of the round tip ot the fid. Keep tape smooth and avoid bunching as
it will be easier to pass the fid through the braid. See figure C.3.2.3(c).
The round end of the fid can then be inserted and pushed without a pusher.
Short section
Fig. C.3.2.3(a) Wire fid.
Tape
Cover or core
Fig. C.3.2.3(b) Inserting fid into cover or core.
Cover or core
Fig. C.3.2.3(c) Taping cover or core to fid.

Page A32
C.3.3 Standard Eye Splice.
Form Figure C.3.3(a).
The standard eye splice can be performed on new and used rope. This is an all-purpose splice
technique designed for people who generally splice used rope as frequently as new rope. It
retains up to 90% of the average new rope strength and in used rope up to the same proportion
of residual used rope strength. Before splicing, the Special Tips in Section C.3.5 should be
studied, particularly if a link-thimble is to be used in the eye.
Fig. C.3.3(a) Standard eye.
Stage 1 Making the measurements - Figure C.3.3{b).
Tape end to be spliced with one thin layer of tape. Then, measure one tubular fid length ( two
wire fid lengths because wire fid is 1/2 size) from end of rope and mark. This is Point R (
Reference ). From R form a loop the size of the eye desired and mark. This is Point X where you
extract the core from inside the cover. If using a thimble, form the loop around the thimble. (
See Special Tips section C.3.5 for more information on installing thimble ). Tie a tight slip
knot approximately five fid lengths from X. This must be done.
Form loop to
Core must be extracted
desired size
from cover at this point
X
1 layer of tape
1 fid length
or 2 wire fids
Tie a slip knot about

5 fid lengths from X
Fig. C.3.3(b)
Page A33
Stage 2 Extracting the core - Figure C.3.3(c).
Bend rope sharply at X. With the pusher or any other sharp tool such as a marlin spike, spread
the cover strands to expose core. First pry, then pull the core completely out of cover from X
to taped end of rope. Put one layer only of tape on end of core. To assure correct positioning of
the Mark 1, do the following: Holding the exposed core, slide cover as far back towards the slip
knot as you can. Then, firmly smooth the cover back from the slip knot towards taped end.
Smooth again until all cover slack is removed. Then mark the core where it comes out of the
cover. This is Mark 1.
Prying out
the core
X Cover
1 layer of tape
on ends
Mark 1 Core
Fig. C.3.3(c).
Stage 3 Marking the core - Figure C.3.3(d).
Again slide cover toward slipknot to expose more core. From Mark 1, measure along core
towards X a distance equal to the short section of tubular fid ( 2 short sections with wire fid )
and make two heavy marks. This is Mark 2.
From Mark 2 measure in the same direction one fid length plus another short section of the
fid, ( with wire fid double measurements ) make 3 heavy marks. This is Mark 3.
2 short sections
with wire fid
Cover
X Mark on fid
Mark 3 Mark 2 Mark 1
Core One fid length plus another short Short
section section of fid
Fig. C.3.3(d)
Page A34
Stage 4 Marking the cover for tapering - Figure C.3.3(e).
Note nature of cover braid. It is made up of strand pairs. By inspection you can see half the
pairs revolve to the right around the rope and half revolve to the left.
Beginning at R and working toward taped end of the cover, count 7 consecutive pairs ot cover
strands which revolve to the right ( or left ). Mark the 7th pair. This is point T. ( See insert ).
Make Mark T go completely around cover.
Starting as T and working toward the taped cover end, count and mark every second right pair
of strands for a totaL of 6. Again starting at T, count and mark every second left pair of
strands for a total of 6 ( see insert ) .
R T
Marking
cover strands
R T
Cover Follow instructions

X carefully
Mark 3 Mark 2 Mark 1
Core
Fig. C.3.3(e).
Stage 5 Performing the taper - Figure C.3.3(f).
First remove tape from cover end. Start with last marked pair of cover strands toward the end,
cut and pull them completely out ( see insert ). Cut and remove next marked strands and
continue with each right and left marked strands until you reach Point T. Do not cut beyond
this point. ( See insert). Retape tapered end.
R T Tapered cover
Cutting Removing
Cover pairs cut pairs
Mark 2 Mark 1
Mark 3
Core
Fig. C.3.3(f).
Page A35
Stage 6 Putting the cover inside core - Figure C.3.3(g).
Insert fid into core at Mark 2. Slide it through and out at Mark 3.
Add extra tape to tapered cover end; then jam it tightly into the hollow end of fid ( See insert
). Hold core lightly at Mark 3, place pusher into taped end, and push fid and cover through
from Mark 2 and out at Mark 3. With wire fid first attach cover to fid. Then after fid is on,
milk braid over fid while pulling through from Mark 2 to Mark 3.
Take the fid off the cover. Continue pulling cover tail through the core until Mark T on the
cover meets Mark 2. Then remove tape from end of tapered cover.
R T
Pinch Tapered cover

taped
end to
insert
Cover
X
Mark 3
Mark 2
Mark 1 Core
Fig. C.3.3(g).
Stage 7 Reinserting the core into cover- Figure C.3.3(h).
You are now ready to put core back into cover from T to X. Insert fid at T, jam the tapered core
end tightly into end of fid. With pusher, push fid and core around to, and through opening at
X. When using wire fid, attach fid to tapered core. After fid is on, milk braid over fid while
pulling through from T to X.
Depending on eye size, fid may not be long enough to reach from T to X in one pass. If not,
bring fid out through cover, pull core through and reinsert fid into exact hole it came out of.
Do this as many times as needed to reach X.
Reinsert fid and core at

same point it comes out
Insert core
into cover
Cover R at point T
Mark 3
X Mark 1
Mark 2 Core
Fid and end of core comes out at X
Fig. C.3.3(h)
Page A36
Stage 8 Burying the exposed core - Figure C.3.3(i).
By pulling on core tail at X, then on tapered cover at Mark 3, the crossover will be tightened
until opening in crossover is approximately equal to diameter of rope.
Tapered cover will disappear at Mark 3. With used rope, review stages 3, 4, 5 and 6 under
Special Tips ( Section C.3.5 ). Then on used rope cut core tail off close where it comes out at X.
Leave core tail on with new rope.
Hold rope at slipknot and with other hand milk cover toward splice, gently at first, then more
firmly. Cover will slide over Mark 3, Mark 2, the crossover, and R.
If bunching occurs at crossover on new rope preventing full burying, tug firmly on core tail
until bunching disappears. Then, on new rope or used rope, smooth smooth loop from T to X.
Continue burying until all cover slack between knot and loop has been removed.
Cover
Beginning at slipknot milk
cover by sliding hand
towards loop X Milk cover until
core is buried to
Mark 3 here R
T T
Tail of core
( Cut before burying ) Crossover
Fig. C.3.3(i)
Stage 9 Finishing splice - Figure C.3.3(j).
You should whip the eye splice near X, especially if rope is 1 inch diameter or larger.
Now untie the slipknot. If eye is correct size, cut off core tail at X. If eye is not the right size,
carefully check Stages 1 to 8 before cutting the core tail at X.
End of buried Tail of core

section disappears here
Crossover point
Whip
is buried here
Fig. C.3.3(j).
Page A37
If a hollow flat spot appears at the throat, do not worry or feel badly. The core tail was cut off
too short. This does not affect the splice performance nor its strength. Reason: the total load of
an eye splice is split between its own two legs. Therefore, each side of the splice has only to
support 50% of the total load. The braided cover alone can handle this load factor.
Warning: in single braided rope where the cover to core ratio is not equal, this is not so,
however the load is still shared.
It also may be advantageous to cross stitch the throat. Typically five stitches along one line,
each stitch about one half a rope diameter apart. Then come back with the same number of
stitches at 90 degrees to the first set, and then tie the two ends together.
Page A38
C.3.4 Standard End for End Splice.
Form Figure C.3.4(a).
The standard end-for-end splice can be performed on new and used rope. This is an a l l -
purpose splice technique designed for people who generally splice used rope as frequently as
new rope. It retains up to 85% of average new rope strength and in used ropes up to 85% of the
remaining used rope strength. Before splicing used rope, the Special Tips in sect ion 11.2.7
should be studied.
Fig. C.3.4(a) Standard End for End.
Stage 1 Making the measurements - Figure C.3.4(b).
Tape the end of each rope with one thin layer of tape. Lay two ropes to be spliced side by side
and measure one tubular rid length ( 2 wire fid length because wire fid is 1/2 size) from end
of each rope and make a mark. This is point R ( Reference ).
From R measure one short fid section length as scribed on the fid; then, mark again. This is
point X where you should extract core from inside cover. Be sure both ropes are identically
marked.
Tie a tight slip knot approximately 5 fid lengths from X.
Short
1 fid length or
section
2 wire fids
of fid
X R
Core must be extracted One layer of tape
from cover here
Tie a slipknot in each line

about 5 fid lengths from X
Fig. C.3.4(b).
Page A39
Stage 2 Extracting the cores - Figure C.3.4(c).
Bend rope sharply at X. With the pusher or any sharp tool such as a marlin spike, spread cover
strands to expose core. First pry, then, pull core completely out of cover from X to the end of
rope. Put one layer only of tape on end of core.
To assure correct positioning of Mark 1 do the following: Holding the exposed core, slide cover
as far back towards the slip knot as you can. Then, firmly smooth cover back from the slip
knot towards taped end. Smooth again until all cover slack is removed. Then, mark core where
it comes out of cover. This is Mark 1.
Do this to both ropes.
Prying out the core

X R Cover
Cores 1 layer of tape
X
X R Cover
Fig. C.3.4(c).
Stage 3 Marking the cores - figure C.3.4(d)
Hold one core at Mark 1 and slide cover back to expose more core. From Mark 1, measure along
core towards X a distance equal to the short section of fid* and make two heavy marks. This is
Mark 2.
From Mark 2, measure in the same direction one fid length plus another short section* and
make three heavy marks. This is Mark 3. Mark the second core by laying it alongside the first
and using it as an exact guide.
* with wire fid double measurements.
X R
1 fid length plus another short section * Short section *
Mark 3 Mark 1
Mark second core using first as exact guide Mark 2
X R
* with wire fid double measurements
Fig. C.3.4(d).
Page A 40
Stage 4 Marking the covers for tapering- Figure C.3.4(e).
Note nature of the cover braid. It is made up of strand pairs. By inspection you can see that
half the pairs revolve to the right around the rope and half revolve to the left.
Beginning at R and working toward the taped end of cover, count 7 consecutive pairs of cover
strands which revolve to the right ( or left ). Mark the 7th pair. This is Point T ( See Insert ).
Make T go completely around cover.
Starting at T and working toward taped cover end count and mark every second right pair of
strands for a total of 6. Again, starting at T, count and mark every second left pair of strands
for a total of 6 (See insert ). Make both ropes identical.
X R T Cover
Marking
cover strands Core
Mark 3 Mark 1
R T Core Mark 2
X R T Cover
Read
instructions
carefully
Fig. C.3.4(e).
Stage 5 Performing the taper - Figure C.3.4(f).
First remove tape from cover end. Starting with last marked pair of cover strands toward the
end, cut and pull them completely out ( See Insert ). Cut and remove next marked strands and
continue with each right and left marked strands until you reach Point T. Do not cut beyond
this point. ( See Insert ). Retape tapered end.
Cut and remove marked strands on the other marked cover, again stopping at T. Retape tapered
end.
X R T
Cutting
pairs Tapered cover Mark 2
Mark 3 Mark 1
Tapered cover
Removing
X R T cut pairs
Fig. C.3.4(f).
Page A41
Stage 6 Repositioning the ropes - figure C.3.4(g).
Reposition the ropes for splicing according to the figure. Note how cover of one rope has been
paired off with core of opposite line. Avoid twisting.
Mark 1
Mark 2 Mark 3
Cover
Core X
R T Tapered
X cover T R
Core
Cover
Mark 3 Mark 2
Mark 1
Fig. C.3.4(g)
Stage 7 Putting the cover inside the core - Figure C.3.4(h).
Insert fid into one core at Mark 2 and bring it out at Mark 3. Add extra tape to tapered cover
end then jam it tightly into hollow end of fid ( See insert ). Hold core lightly at Mark 3, place
pusher point into taped end, pushing fid, with cover in it, from Mark 2 out at Mark 3. When
using wire fid, attach fid to cover, then pull fid through from Mark 2 to Mark 3. Pull cover tail
through core until Mark T on cover meets Mark 2 on core. Insert other cover into core in same
manner.
Mark 1
Tapered Cover Core
Mark 2
T R
Cover Pinch
taped
end to Core
insert Mark 3
R
Mark 2 T Cover
Core Mark 3 in
fid
Cover Core
Mark 1
Fig. C.3.4(h).
Page A42
Stage 8 Reinserting the core into cover - Figure C.3.4(i).
Now put core back into cover from T to X. Insert fid at T, jam taped core tightly into end of fid.
With pusher, push fid and core through cover bringing out at Point X. When using wire fid,
attach fid to taped core, then pull fid and braid through from T to X. Do this to both cores.
Remove tape from end of cover. Bring crossover up tight by pulling on core tail and on tapered
cover tail. Hold crossover tightly smoothing out all excess braid away from crossover in each
direction. Tapered cover tail will disappear at Mark 3. Cut core tail off close to Point X.
Core
Insert core
into cover at T
R T Tapered
cover
X Core
End of taper disappears here
X
Fid and end of core
comes out at X
R
T
Opening in crossover should be

Crossover no longer than diameter of rope
Fig. C.3.4(i).
Stage 9 Burying the exposed core - Figure C.3.4(j).
Hold rope at slipknot and with other hand milk cover toward the splice, gently at first, then
more firmly. The cover will slide over Mark 3, Mark 2, the crossover and R. Repeat with the
other side of the splice. Continue burying until all cover slack between the slipknot and the
splice has been removed.
Beginning at each slipknot, milk

cover by sliding hand toward
splice
X
Mark 2
R
T
Fig. C.3.4(j).
Page A43
Stage 10 Finishing the splice - Figure C.3.4(k).
The splice is done when all the cover slack has been removed and there is an opening in the
splice approximately equal in length to the diameter of the rope. If at the opening, one side of
the splice is noticeably longer than the other side, something is wrong. Check stages 1 to 9 and
remake it necessary. Now untie the slip knots.
End of buried Crossover point End of buried

section buried to approximately section
here
Fig. C.3.4(k).
Page A44
C.3.5 Special Tips.
C.3.5.1 Eye Splice with a Thimble.
Follow Stage 1 of the standard eye splice for determining the correct eye size. When burying
exposed core as in Stage 8, bury to crossover, then insert thimble into eye before milking
cover all the way. If using a thimble with ears, before inserting cover into core, as in Stage 6,
insert core through the ears and slide thimble beyond Mark 3. Then proceed to make the splice
according to instructions. To secure finished eye tightly around thimble, either whip throat or
dip the eye in hot water for several minutes. Hot water will shrink eye tightly around thimble.
C.3.5.2 Splicing Used Rope.
Splicing used rope can be made easier by first understanding the rope condition. Natural
shrinkage has occurred caused by water and heat. In addition, the cover yarns have often been
abraded. Therefore, by using the technique outlined in the standard eye or end-for-end splice
along with the following tips, you can splice used braided rope more easily and with better
results.
Stage 1.
Soak the section of rope to be spliced in water for several minutes - this helps lubricate and
loosen the fibers.
Stage 2. Figure C.3.5.2(a).
After marking the cover ( as shown in stage 2 of the splice) untape end of rope, grasp end of
core. and slide back cover pulling out core. This loosens and bunches up cover strands in the
area of Point X and makes it easier to open up cover strands for extraction. Also, thoroughly
loosen 3-4 strand pairs at X to assure a large and flexible hole for extraction, as shown in the
figure.
Fig. C.3.5.2(a).
Page A45
Stage 3.
Before burying the cover over the crossover:
A. Figure C.3.5.2(b).
Anchor loop of slipknot by tying it to a stationary object before starting to bury. You can then
use both hands and weight of body to more easily bury cover over core and crossover.
Figure C.3.5.2(c).
For burying process. with larger ropes. it is helpful to securely anchor slip knot. Attach a
small line to braided core at the crossover and mechanically apply tension with either a block
and tackle a capstan, a come-a-long, or a power winch. This tension will reduce the diameter of
core and crossover for easier burying.
B. Holding the crossover tightly. milk all the excess cover from R to X. Then cut off each core
tail at X.
Crossover Core
Pull
Cover
Fig. C.3.5.2(b).
Crossover
Small line Core
Mechanical Pull Firmly

tension secured
Cover
Fig. C.3.5.2(c).
Page A46
Stage 4. Flex and loosen the rope at the crossover point during the final burying process.
Hammering cover at Point X will help loosen strands.
Stage 5. Figure C.3.5.2(d).
The use of shock cord in a rolling hitch around the cover is useful to make final burying
easier and more complete. Pull on hitch toward the eye until all cover slack is removed.
Fig. C.3.5.2(d).
Stage 6.
On rope over 1 inch diameter, it is often easier to pass a spike or similar object through the
rope instead of of tying a slipknot.

Ocean Cable Engineering Handbook Vol4 Compiled by Ian S. Coote

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2.1 Types of Grapnels. 2

2.3.4 Cutting Flatfish Grapnel. 28

3.1 Grappling from a Cable Ship. 43

4. Cable Buoys and Moorings. 59

4.2.4 Ground Chain. 73

A. Characteristics of Grapnel and Buoy Ropes. A1

B. Balloon Buoys and Mooring Characteristics. A5

C. Splicing Grapnel and Buoy Rope. A13

C.1 Introduction. A13

C.3 Splicing Buoy ( Braided ) Rope. A30

2.2.2.2(a) 5-Prong round bottom common grapnels. 3

2.2.3.2(a) 5-Prong chisel and spear point grapnels. 5

2.2.4.2(a) Commercial flatfish grapnel. 7

2.2.5.2(a) Gifford grapnels - chain joining link pattern. 9

2.2.6.2(a) Vee-jaw Gifford grapnel. 11

2.2.7.2(a) Jamming grapnel. 13

2.2.8.2(a) Rennies grapnel. 15

2.2.9.2(a) Rouillard grapnel. 17

2.2.10.2(a) Sand grapnels. 19

2.2.11.2(a) Sliding prong grapnels. 21

2.3.1.2(a) Common cutting grapnel. 23

2.3.2.2(a) B>P>O> cutting grapnel. 25

2.3.3.2(a) B.P.O. cut and hold grapnel. 27

2.3.4.2(a) Combination flatfish grapnel 29

2.3.5.2(a) Powered cutting flatfish grapnel. 31

2.3.6.2(a) Lucas cut and hold grapnel. 33

2.4.1.2(a) 6-Prong detrenching grapnel 35

2.4.2.2(a) Batfish grapnel. 37

3.1.3.2(a) Arrangement of rig for grappling. 45

3.1.3.3(a) Capturing cable in a grapnel and subsequent raising to surface. 47

3.1.4(a) Action of cutting grapnel. 49

3.1.6(a) Installation of Mark buoy and mooring. 51

3.1.6(b) Lowering of grapnel in preparation for run. 52

3.1.6(c) Grappling run using mooring for additional pull. 53

3.1.6(d) Raising bight of plowed-in cable to surface. 54

3.2.1(a) Arrangement of rig for grappling from a lighter or barge. 56

3.2.1(b) Capturing cable in grapnel and subsequent raising to surface 57

3.2.2(a) Boats centipede ( Small sliding prong grapnel ). 58

4.2.1(a) Typical Balloon buoy components. 61

4.2.1(b) Cable buoys - No. 0-0 ( 6-1/2 ton ) Balloon Buoy. 62

4.2.1(c) Cable buoys - No. 0 ( 4 ton ) Balloon Buoy. 63

4.2.1(d) Cable buoys - No. 1 ( 3 ton ) Balloon Buoy. 64

4.2.1(e) Cable buoys - No. 2 ( 2 ton ) Balloon Buoy. 65

4.2.1(f) Cable buoys - No. 3 ( 1-1/4 ton ) Balloon Buoy. 66

4.2.1(g) Cable buoys - No. 4 ( 13 cwt. ) Balloon Buoy. 67

4.2.1(h) Cable buoys - No. 5 ( 7-1/2 cwt. ) Balloon Buoy. 68

4.2.1(i) Cable buoys - No. 6 ( 4-1/2 cwt. ) Balloon Buoy. 68

4.2.1(j) Cable buoys - No. 7 ( 1-1/2 cwt. ) Balloon Buoy. 69

4.2.1(k) Cable buoys - Barrel buoy. 69

4.2.3(a) Configuration of scope showing part subject to wear on bottom. 72

4.3.1(a) Rigging of chain assemblies to balloon buoy. 78

4.3.1(b) Rigging of balloon buoy for deck recovery. 79

4.3.1(c) Rigging of buoy chain to barrel buoy. 80

4.3.2(a) Mooring configuration for mark buoy. 82

4.3.3(a) Mooring configuration for cable end buoy with cable as 84

4.3.3(b) Mooring configuration for cable end buoy. 86

C.3.2.3(a) Wire fid. A31

C.3.2.3(b) Inserting fid into cover or core. A31

C.3.2.3(c) Taping cover or core to fid. A31

C.3.3(a) Standard eye. A32