[Federal Register Volume 61, Number 102 (Friday, May 24, 1996)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 26073-26078]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 96-12834]



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DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
Rural Utilities Service

7 CFR Part 1755


RUS Specification for Aerial Service Wires

AGENCY: Rural Utilities Service, USDA.

ACTION: Final rule.

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SUMMARY: The Rural Utilities Service (RUS) amends its regulations on 
Telecommunications Standards and Specifications for Materials, 
Equipment and Construction, by codifying the RUS Specification for 
Aerial Service Wires. The new specification sets forth the engineering 
and technical standards that are required by RUS in outside plant 
environments.

DATES: Effective date: June 24, 1996.
    Compliance date: Borrowers may purchase aerial wire service 
products already produced or currently in the process of manufacturing 
under previous Bulletin 345-36 until February 24, 1997.
    Incorporation by reference: Incorporation by reference of certain 
publications listed in this final rule is approved by the Director of 
the Federal Register as of June 24, 1996.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Charlie I. Harper, Jr., Chief, Outside 
Plant Branch, Telecommunications Standards Division, Rural Utilities 
Service, room 2844, AG Box 1598, South Building, U.S. Department of 
Agriculture, Washington, DC 20250-1598, telephone number (202) 720-
0667.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Executive Order 12866

    This final rule has been determined to be not significant and 
therefore has not been reviewed by the Office of Management and Budget.

Executive Order 12778

    This final rule has been reviewed under Executive Order 12778, 
Civil Justice Reform. If adopted, this final rule will not:
    (1) Preempt any State or local laws, regulations, or policies;
    (2) Have any retroactive effect; and
    (3) Require administrative proceedings before parties may file suit 
challenging the provisions of this rule.

Regulatory Flexibility Act Certification

    The Administrator of RUS has determined that this final rule will 
not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small 
entities, as defined by the Regulatory Flexibility Act (5 U.S.C. 601 et 
seq.). This final rule involves standards and specifications, which may 
increase the direct short-term costs to RUS borrowers. However, the 
long-term direct economic costs are reduced through greater durability 
and lower maintenance cost over time.

Information Collection and Recordkeeping Requirements

    The reporting and recordkeeping requirements contained in the final 
rule were approved by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) 
pursuant to the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U.S.C. Chapter 35, 
as amended) under control number of 0572-0059.
    Send questions or comments regarding this burden or any other 
aspect of these collections of information, including suggestions for 
reducing the burden, to F. Lamont Heppe, Jr., Deputy Director, Program 
Support Staff, Rural Utilities Service, Ag Box 1522, Washington, DC 
20250-1522.

[[Page 26074]]

National Environmental Policy Act Certification

    The Administrator of RUS has determined that this final rule will 
not significantly affect the quality of the human environment as 
defined by the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 
4321 et seq.) Therefore, this action does not require an environmental 
impact statement or assessment.

Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance

    The program described by this final rule is listed in the Catalog 
of Federal Domestic Assistance programs under No. 10.851, Rural 
Telephone Loans and Loan Guarantees; and No. 10.852, Rural Telephone 
Bank Loans. This catalog is available on a subscription basis from the 
Superintendent of Documents, the United States Government Printing 
Office, Washington, DC 20402.

Executive Order 12372

    This final rule is excluded from the scope of Executive Order 
12372, Intergovernmental Consultation, which may require consultation 
with State and local officials. A Notice of Final Rule titled 
Department Programs and Activities Excluded from Executive Order 12372 
(50 FR 47034) exempts RUS and RTB loans and loan guarantees, and RTB 
bank loans, to governmental and nongovernmental entities from coverage 
under this Order.

Background

    RUS issues publications titled ``Bulletin'' which serve to guide 
borrowers regarding already codified policy, procedures, and 
requirements needed to manage loans, loan guarantee programs, and the 
security instruments which provide for and secure RUS financing. RUS 
issues standards and specifications for the construction of telephone 
facilities financed with RUS loan funds. RUS Bulletin 345-36, ``RUS 
Specification for Parallel Conductor Drop Wire,'' PE-7, dated January 
25, 1983, presently contains the engineering and technical requirements 
for aerial service wires that are considered necessary for satisfactory 
performance in outside plant environments. Because of the technological 
advancements made in aerial service wire designs over the past eleven 
years, RUS is rescinding Bulletin 345-36 and codifying these standards 
in 7 CFR part 1755.700 through 7 CFR part 1755.704, RUS Specification 
for Aerial Service Wires.
    The specification allows aerial service wire designs consisting of 
one pair through six pairs. The specification also allows aerial 
service wire designs containing copper coated steel and nonmetallic 
reinforcing members.
    The specification contains mechanical, electrical, and 
environmental requirements, and test methods for evaluation of these 
aerial service wire designs.
    This action establishes RUS requirements for a wider range of 
aerial service wires without affecting current designs or manufacturing 
techniques. This wider selection of aerial service wires will afford 
RUS telephone borrowers the opportunity to increase subscriber services 
in an economical and efficient manner through enhanced wire designs 
brought about by technological advancements made during the past eleven 
years.
    On December 29, 1995, RUS published a proposed rule (60 FR 67340) 
to codify the RUS Specification for Aerial Service Wires. Comments on 
this proposed rule were due January 29, 1996. No comments were received 
by this due date.

List of Subjects in 7 CFR Part 1755

    Incorporation by reference, Loan programs--communications, 
Reporting and recordkeeping requirements, Rural areas, Telephone.

    For the reasons set out in the preamble, RUS amends chapter XVII of 
title 7 of the Code of Federal Regulations as follows:

PART 1755--TELECOMMUNICATIONS STANDARDS AND SPECIFICATIONS FOR 
MATERIALS, EQUIPMENT AND CONSTRUCTION

    1. The authority citation for part 1755 continues to read as 
follows:

    Authority: 7 U.S.C. 901 et seq., 1921 et seq., 6941 et seq.

    2. Section 1755.98 is amended by adding a new entry to the table in 
numerical order to read as follows:


Sec. 1755.98  List of telephone standards and specifications included 
in other 7 CFR parts.

* * * * *

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               Section                                 Issue date                                                  Title                                
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                                                                        
                   *                  *                  *                  *                  *                  *                  *                  
1755.700 through 1755.704............  June 24, 1996.............................  RUS Specification for Aerial Service Wires.                          
                                                                                                                                                        
                                                                                                                                                        
                   *                  *                  *                  *                  *                  *                  *                  
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    3. Sections 1755.700 through 1755.704 are added to read as follows:


Sec. 1755.700  RUS specification for aerial service wires.

    Secs. 1755.701 through 1755.704 cover the requirements for aerial 
service wires.


Sec. 1755.701  Scope.

    (a) This section covers the requirements for aerial service wires 
intended for aerial subscriber drops.
    (b) The aerial service wires can be either copper coated steel 
reinforced or nonmetallic reinforced designs.
    (c) For the copper coated steel reinforced design, the reinforcing 
members are the conductors.
    (1) The conductors are solid copper-covered steel wires.
    (2) The wire structure is completed by insulating the conductors 
with an overall extruded plastic insulating compound.
    (d) For the nonmetallic reinforced design, the conductors are solid 
copper individually insulated with an extruded solid insulating 
compound.
    (1) The insulated conductors are either laid parallel (two 
conductor design only) or twisted into pairs (a star-quad configuration 
is permitted for two pair wires).
    (2) The wire structure is completed by the application of 
nonmetallic reinforcing members and an overall plastic jacket.
    (e) All wires sold to RUS borrowers for projects involving RUS loan 
funds under Secs. 1755.700 through 1755.704 must be accepted by RUS 
Technical Standards Committee ``A'' (Telecommunications). For wires 
manufactured to the specification of Secs. 1755.700 through 1755.704, 
all design changes to an accepted design must be submitted for 
acceptance. RUS will be the sole authority on what constitutes a design 
change.
    (f) Materials, manufacturing techniques, or wire designs not

[[Page 26075]]

specifically addressed by Secs. 1755.700 through 1755.704 may be 
allowed if accepted by RUS. Justification for acceptance of modified 
materials, manufacturing techniques, or wire designs must be provided 
to substantiate product utility and long term stability and endurance.


Sec. 1755.702  Copper coated steel reinforced (CCSR) aerial service 
wire.

    (a) Conductors. (1) Each conductor shall comply with the 
requirements specified in the American National Standard Institute/
Insulated Cable Engineers Association, Inc. (ANSI/ICEA) S-89-648-1993, 
paragraphs 2.1 through 2.1.5. The ANSI/ICEA S-89-648-1993 Standard For 
Telecommunications Aerial Service Wire, Technical Requirements 
(approved by ANSI July 11, 1994) is incorporated by reference in 
accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. Copies of ANSI/ICEA 
S-89-648-1993 are available for inspection during normal business hours 
at RUS, room 2845, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Washington, DC 
20250-1500 or at the Office of the Federal Register, 800 North Capitol 
Street, NW., suite 700, Washington, DC. Copies are available from ICEA, 
P. O. Box 440, South Yarmouth, MA 02664, telephone number (508) 394-
4424.
    (2) Factory joints in conductors shall comply with the requirement 
specified in ANSI/ICEA S-89-648-1993, paragraph 2.1.6.
    (b) Conductor insulation. (1) The raw materials used for the 
conductor insulation shall comply with the requirements specified in 
ANSI/ICEA S-89-648-1993, paragraph 3.1.1.
    (2) The raw materials shall be accepted by RUS prior to their use.
    (3) The finished conductor insulation shall be free from holes, 
splits, blisters, or other imperfections and shall be as smooth as is 
consistent with best commercial practice.
    (4) The finished conductor insulation shall comply with the 
requirements specified in ANSI/ICEA S-89-648-1993, paragraphs 3.1.5 
through 3.1.5.4.
    (5) The insulation shall have a minimum spot thickness of not less 
than 0.9 millimeters (mm) (0.03 inches (in.)) at any point.
    (c) Wire assembly. (1) The two conductors shall be insulated in 
parallel to form an integral configuration.
    (2) The finished wire assembly shall be either a flat or a notched 
oval. Other finished wire assemblies may be used provided that they are 
accepted by RUS prior to their use.
    (3) The overall dimensions of the finished wire assembly shall be 
in accordance with the following requirements:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                    Dimensions          
                                         -------------------------------
                Diameter                    Minimum  mm     Maximum  mm 
                                               (in.)           (in.)    
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Major...................................      5.5 (0.22)      8.0 (0.31)
Minor...................................      3.0 (0.12)      5.0 (0.19)
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (d) Conductor marking. The insulated conductors of a finished wire 
shall be marked in accordance with the requirements specified in ANSI/
ICEA S-89-648-1993, paragraph 3.1.4.
    (e) Electrical requirements. (1) Conductor resistance. The direct 
current (dc) resistance of each conductor in a completed CCSR aerial 
service wire shall comply with the requirement specified in ANSI/ICEA 
S-89-648-1993, paragraph 7.1.2.
    (2) Wet mutual capacitance. The wet mutual capacitance of the 
completed CCSR aerial service wire shall comply with the requirement 
specified in ANSI/ICEA S-89-648-1993, paragraph 7.1.3.
    (3) Wet attenuation. The wet attenuation of the completed CCSR 
aerial service wire shall comply with the requirement specified in 
ANSI/ICEA S-89-648-1993, paragraph 7.1.4.
    (4) Wet insulation resistance. The wet insulation resistance of the 
completed CCSR aerial service wire shall comply with the requirement 
specified in ANSI/ICEA S-89-648-1993, paragraph 7.1.5.
    (5) Dielectric strength. (i) The wet dielectric strength between 
conductors and between each conductor of the completed CCSR aerial 
service wire and the surrounding water shall comply with the 
requirement specified in ANSI/ICEA S-89-648-1993, paragraph 7.1.6.
    (ii) The dry dielectric strength between conductors of the 
completed CCSR aerial service wire shall comply with the requirement 
specified in ANSI/ICEA S-89-648-1993, paragraph 7.1.7.
    (6) Fusing coordination. The completed CCSR aerial service wire 
shall comply with the fusing coordination requirement specified in 
ANSI/ICEA S-89-648-1993, paragraph 7.1.8.
    (7) Insulation imperfections. Each length of completed CCSR aerial 
service wire shall comply with the requirement specified in ANSI/ICEA 
S-89-648-1993, paragraph 7.1.9.
    (f) Mechanical requirements. (1) Impact test. (i) All CCSR aerial 
service wires manufactured in accordance with this section shall comply 
with the unaged impact test specified in ANSI/ICEA S-89-648-1993, 
paragraph 8.1.2.
    (ii) All CCSR aerial service wires manufactured in accordance with 
this section shall comply with the aged impact test specified in ANSI/
ICEA S-89-648-1993, paragraph 8.1.3.
    (2) Abrasion resistance test. All CCSR aerial service wires 
manufactured in accordance with this section shall comply with the 
abrasion resistance test specified in ANSI/ICEA S-89-648-1993, 
paragraph 8.1.4.
    (3) Static load test. All CCSR aerial service wires manufactured in 
accordance with this section shall comply with the static load test 
specified in ANSI/ICEA S-89-648-1993, paragraph 8.1.5.
    (4) Plasticizer compatibility test. All CCSR aerial service wires 
manufactured in accordance with this section shall comply with the 
plasticizer compatibility test specified in ANSI/ICEA S-89-648-1993, 
paragraph 8.1.8.
    (g) Environmental requirements. (1) Cold temperature handling test. 
(i) All CCSR aerial service wires manufactured in accordance with this 
section shall comply with the unaged cold temperature handling test 
specified in ANSI/ICEA S-89-648-1993, paragraph 8.2.1.
    (ii) All CCSR aerial service wires manufactured in accordance with 
this section shall comply with the aged cold temperature handling test 
specified in ANSI/ICEA S-89-648-1993, paragraph 8.2.2.
    (2) Light absorption test. All CCSR aerial service wires 
manufactured in accordance with this section shall comply with the 
light absorption test specified in ANSI/ICEA S-89-648-1993, paragraph 
8.2.3.
    (3) Low temperature separation test. All CCSR aerial service wires 
manufactured in accordance with this section shall comply with the low 
temperature separation test specified in ANSI/ICEA S-89-648-1993, 
paragraph 8.2.4.
    (4) Flammability test. All CCSR aerial service wires manufactured 
in accordance with this section shall comply with the flammability test 
specified in ANSI/ICEA S-89-648-1993, paragraph 8.3.
    (5) Wire listing. All CCSR aerial service wires manufactured in 
accordance with this section shall comply with the listing requirements 
specified in ANSI/ICEA S-89-648-1993, paragraph 8.4.
    (h) Identification marker. Each length of CCSR aerial service wire 
shall be identified in accordance with ANSI/ICEA S-89-648-1993, 
paragraph 9.1.4. When surface marking is employed, the color of the 
initial marking shall be either white or silver.
    (i) Length marking (optional). (1) Sequentially numbered length 
marking of the completed CCSR aerial service

[[Page 26076]]

wire may be used at the option of the manufacturer unless specified by 
the end user.
    (2) When sequentially numbered length markings are used, the length 
markings shall be in accordance with ANSI/ICEA S-89-648-1993, paragraph 
9.1.5. The color of the initial marking shall be either white or 
silver.
    (j) Durability of marking. The durability of the marking of the 
CCSR aerial service wire shall comply with the requirements specified 
in ANSI/ICEA S-89-648-1993, paragraph 9.1.6.


Sec. 1755.703   Nonmetallic reinforced (NMR) aerial service wire.

    (a) Conductors. (1) Each conductor shall comply with the 
requirements specified in ANSI/ICEA S-89-648-1993, paragraphs 2.2 and 
2.2.1. The ANSI/ICEA S-89-648-1993 Standard For Telecommunications 
Aerial Service Wire, Technical Requirements (approved by ANSI July 11, 
1994) is incorporated by reference in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) 
and 1 CFR part 51. Copies of ANSI/ICEA S-89-648-1993 are available for 
inspection during normal business hours at RUS, room 2845, U.S. 
Department of Agriculture, Washington, DC 20250-1500 or at the Office 
of the Federal Register, 800 North Capitol Street, NW., suite 700, 
Washington, DC. Copies are available from ICEA, P. O. Box 440, South 
Yarmouth, MA 02664, telephone number (508) 394-4424.
    (2) Factory joints made in the conductors during the manufacturing 
process shall comply with the requirement specified in ANSI/ICEA S-89-
648-1993, paragraph 2.2.2.
    (b) Conductor insulation. (1) The raw materials used for the 
conductor insulation shall comply with the requirements specified in 
ANSI/ICEA S-89-648-1993, paragraphs 3.2 through 3.2.2.
    (2) The finished conductor insulation shall comply with the 
requirements specified in ANSI/ICEA S-89-648-1993, paragraph 3.2.3.
    (3) The dimensions of the insulated conductors shall comply with 
the requirements specified in ANSI/ICEA S-89-648-1993, paragraph 
3.2.3.1.
    (4) The colors of the insulation shall comply with the requirements 
specified in ANSI/ICEA S-89-648-1993, paragraph 3.2.3.2.
    (5) A permissible overall performance level of faults in conductor 
insulation shall comply with the requirement specified in ANSI/ICEA S-
89-648-1993, paragraph 3.2.4.6. The length count and number of faults 
shall be recorded. The information shall be retained for a period of 6 
months and be available for review by RUS when requested.
    (6) Repairs to the conductor insulation during manufacture are 
permissible. The method of repair shall be accepted by RUS prior to its 
use. The repaired insulation shall comply with the requirement 
specified in ANSI/ICEA S-89-648-1993, paragraph 3.2.3.3.
    (7) All repaired sections of insulation shall be retested in the 
same manner as originally tested for compliance with paragraph (b)(5) 
of this section.
    (8) The colored insulating material removed from or tested on the 
conductor, from a finished wire shall comply with the requirements 
specified in ANSI/ICEA S-89-648-1993, paragraphs 3.2.4 through 3.2.4.5.
    (c) Identification of pairs and layup of pairs. (1) The insulation 
shall be colored coded to identify:
    (i) The tip and ring conductor of each pair; and
    (ii) Each pair in the completed wire.
    (2) The colors to be used in the pairs together with the pair 
numbers shall be in accordance with the table specified in ANSI/ICEA S-
89-648-1993, paragraph 4.1.1.
    (3) The insulated conductors shall be either layed parallel (two 
conductor design only) or twisted into pairs.
    (4) When using parallel conductors for the two conductor design, 
the parallel conductors shall be designed to enable the wire to meet 
the electrical requirements specified in paragraph (g) of this section.
    (5) When twisted pairs are used, the following requirements shall 
be met:
    (i) The pair twists shall be designed to enable the wire to meet 
the electrical requirements specified in paragraph (g) of this section; 
and
    (ii) The average length of pair twists in any pair in the finished 
wire, when measured on any 3 meter (10 foot) length, shall not exceed 
the requirement specified in ANSI/ICEA S-89-648-1993, paragraph 4.1.
    (6) An alternative method of forming the two-pair wire is the use 
of a star-quad configuration.
    (i) The assembly of the star-quad shall be such as to enable the 
wire to meet the electrical requirements specified in paragraph (g) of 
this section.
    (ii) The star-quad configuration shall be assembled in accordance 
with ANSI/ICEA S-89-648-1993, paragraph 4.1.2.
    (iii) The average length of twist for the star-quad in the finished 
wire, when measured on any 3 meter (10 foot) length, shall not exceed 
the requirement specified in ANSI/ICEA S-89-648-1993, paragraph 4.1.
    (iv) The color scheme used to provide identification of the tip and 
ring conductors of each pair in the star-quad shall comply with the 
table specified in ANSI/ICEA S-89-648-1993, paragraph 4.1.2.
    (d) Strength members. The strength members shall comply with the 
requirements specified in ANSI/ICEA S-89-648-1993, paragraphs 6.1 and 
6.1.1.
    (e) Wire jacket. (1) The jacket shall comply with the requirements 
specified in ANSI/ICEA S-89-648-1993, paragraphs 5.1 and 5.1.1.
    (2) The jacket raw materials shall be accepted by RUS prior to 
their use.
    (f) Wire assembly. The finished wire assembly shall be in 
accordance with ANSI/ICEA S-89-648-1993, paragraph 5.1.3 and Figure 5-
1.
    (g) Electrical requirements. (1) Conductor resistance. The dc 
resistance of each conductor in a completed NMR aerial service wire 
shall comply with the requirement specified in ANSI/ICEA S-89-648-1993, 
paragraph 7.2.2.
    (2) Resistance unbalance. (i) The dc resistance unbalance between 
the two conductors of any pair in a completed NMR aerial service wire 
and the average resistance unbalance of all pairs in a Quality Control 
Lot shall comply with the requirements specified in ANSI/ICEA S-89-648-
1993, paragraph 7.2.3.
    (ii) The resistance unbalance between tip and ring conductors shall 
be random with respect to the direction of unbalance. That is, the 
resistance of the tip conductors shall not be consistently higher with 
respect to the ring conductors and vice versa.
    (3) Dry mutual capacitance. The dry mutual capacitance of the 
completed NMR aerial service wire shall comply with the requirements 
specified in ANSI/ICEA S-89-648-1993, paragraph 7.2.4, Type 1.
    (4) Pair-to-pair capacitance unbalance. The pair-to-pair 
capacitance unbalance as measured on the completed NMR aerial service 
wire shall comply with the requirements specified in ANSI/ICEA S-89-
648-1993, paragraph 7.2.5.
    (5) Attenuation. (i) The dry attenuation of the completed NMR 
aerial service wire shall comply with the requirement specified in 
ANSI/ICEA S-89-648-1993, paragraph 7.2.7.
    (ii) The wet attenuation of the completed NMR aerial service wire 
shall comply with the requirement specified in ANSI/ICEA S-89-648-1993, 
paragraph 7.2.8.
    (6) Insulation resistance. (i) The dry insulation resistance of the 
completed NMR aerial service wire shall comply with the requirement 
specified in ANSI/ICEA S-89-648-1993, paragraph 7.2.9.

[[Page 26077]]

    (ii) The wet insulation resistance of the completed NMR aerial 
service wire shall comply with the requirement specified in ANSI/ICEA 
S-89-648-1993, paragraph 7.2.10.
    (7) Wet Dielectric strength. The wet dielectric strength between 
conductors and between each conductor of the completed NMR aerial 
service wire and the surrounding water shall comply with the 
requirement specified in ANSI/ICEA S-89-648-1993, paragraph 7.2.11.
    (8) Fusing coordination. The completed NMR aerial service wire 
shall comply with the fusing coordination requirement specified in 
ANSI/ICEA S-89-648-1993, paragraph 7.2.13.
    (9) Crosstalk loss. (i) The output-to-output far-end crosstalk loss 
(FEXT) for any pair of completed NMR aerial service wire shall comply 
with the requirement specified in ANSI/ICEA S-89-648-1993, paragraph 
7.2.14.
    (ii) The input-to-input near-end crosstalk loss (NEXT) for any pair 
of completed NMR aerial service wire shall comply with the requirement 
specified in ANSI/ICEA S-89-648-1993, paragraph 7.2.14.
    (h) Mechanical requirements--(1) Impact test. (i) All NMR aerial 
service wires manufactured in accordance with this section shall comply 
with the unaged impact test specified in Sec. 1755.702(f)(1)(i).
    (ii) All NMR aerial service wires manufactured in accordance with 
this section shall comply with the aged impact test specified in 
Sec. 1755.702(f)(1)(ii).
    (2) Abrasion resistance test. All NMR aerial service wires 
manufactured in accordance with this section shall comply with the 
abrasion resistance test specified in Sec. 1755.702(f)(2).
    (3) Static load test. All NMR aerial service wires manufactured in 
accordance with this section shall comply with the static load test 
specified in Sec. 1755.702(f)(3).
    (4) Elongation test. All NMR aerial service wires manufactured in 
accordance with this section shall comply with the elongation test 
specified in ANSI/ICEA S-89-648-1993, paragraph 8.1.7.
    (5) Plasticizer compatibility test. All NMR aerial service wires 
manufactured in accordance with this section shall comply with the 
plasticizer compatibility test specified in Sec. 1755.702(f)(4).
    (i) Environmental requirements. (1) Cold temperature handling test. 
(i) All NMR aerial service wires manufactured in accordance with this 
section shall comply with the unaged cold temperature handling test 
specified in Sec. 1755.702(g)(1)(i).
    (ii) All NMR aerial service wires manufactured in accordance with 
this section shall comply with the aged cold temperature handling test 
specified in Sec. 1755.702(g)(1)(ii).
    (2) Light absorption test. All NMR aerial service wires 
manufactured in accordance with this section shall comply with the 
light absorption test specified in Sec. 1755.702(g)(2).
    (3) Flammability test. All NMR aerial service wires manufactured in 
accordance with this section shall comply with the flammability test 
specified in Sec. 1755.702(g)(4).
    (4) Wire listing. All NMR aerial service wires manufactured in 
accordance with this section shall comply with the listing requirements 
specified in Sec. 1755.702(g)(5).
    (j) Ripcord (optional). (1) A ripcord may be used in the NMR aerial 
service wire structure at the option of the manufacturer unless 
specified by the end user.
    (2) When a ripcord is used it shall comply with the requirements 
specified in ANSI/ICEA S-89-648-1993, paragraphs 4.2 through 4.2.3.
    (k) Identification marker. Each length of NMR aerial service wire 
shall be identified in accordance with ANSI/ICEA S-89-648-1993, 
paragraphs 9.1 through 9.1.4. When surface marking is employed, the 
color of the initial marking shall be either white or silver.
    (l) Length marking (optional). (1) Sequentially numbered length 
marking of the completed NMR aerial service wire may be used at the 
option of the manufacturer unless specified by the end user.
    (2) When sequentially numbered length markings are used, the length 
markings shall be in accordance with in accordance with 
Sec. 1755.702(i)(2).
    (m) Durability of marking. The durability of the marking of the NMR 
aerial service wire shall comply with the requirements specified in 
Sec. 1755.702(j).


Sec. 1755.704   Requirements applicable to both CCSR and NMR aerial 
service wires.

    (a) Acceptance testing. (1) The tests described in Secs. 1755.700 
through 1755.704 are intended for acceptance of wire designs and major 
modifications of accepted designs. What constitutes a major 
modification is at the discretion of RUS. These tests are intended to 
show the inherent capability of the manufacturer to produce wire 
products having long life and stability.
    (2) For initial acceptance, the manufacturer shall:
    (i) Certify that the product fully complies with each paragraph in 
Secs. 1755.700 through 1755.704;
    (ii) Agree to periodic plant inspections by RUS;
    (iii) Certify whether the product complies with the domestic origin 
manufacturing provisions of the ``Buy American'' requirements of the 
Rural Electrification Act of 1938 (7 U.S.C. 903 note), as amended (the 
``REA Buy-American provision'');
    (iv) Submit at least three written user testimonials concerning 
field performance of the product; and
    (v) Provide any other nonpropriety data deemed necessary by the 
Chief, Outside Plant Branch (Telecommunications).
    (3) In order for RUS to consider a manufacturer's request that a 
product be requalified, the manufacturer shall certify not later than 
June 30 of the year in which requalification is required, that the 
product:
    (i) Fully complies with each paragraph in Secs. 1755.700 through 
1755.704; and
    (ii) Does or does not comply with the domestic origin manufacturing 
provisions of the REA Buy American provisions.The required 
certifications shall be dated within 90 days of the submission.
    (4) Initial and requalification acceptance requests should be 
addresses to: Chairman, Technical Standards Committee ``A'' 
(Telecommunications), Telecommunications Standards Division, Rural 
Utilities Service, AG Box 1598, Washington, DC 20250-1598.
    (b) Extent of testing--(1) Tests on 100 percent of completed wire. 
(i) Each conductor in the completed CCSR and NMR aerial service wire 
shall be tested for continuity in accordance with ANSI/ICEA S-89-648-
1993, paragraphs 7.1.1 and 7.2.1, respectively. The ANSI/ICEA S-89-648-
1993 Standard For Telecommunications Aerial Service Wire, Technical 
Requirements (approved by ANSI July 11, 1994) is incorporated by 
reference in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. Copies 
of ANSI/ICEA S-89-648-1993 are available for inspection during normal 
business hours at RUS, room 2845, U.S. Department of Agriculture, 
Washington, DC 20250-1500 or at the Office of the Federal Register, 800 
North Capitol Street, NW., suite 700, Washington, DC. Copies are 
available from ICEA, P. O. Box 440, South Yarmouth, MA 02664, telephone 
number (508) 394-4424.
    (ii) Each conductor in the completed CCSR and NMR aerial service 
wire shall be tested for shorts in accordance with ANSI/ICEA S-89-648-
1993, paragraphs 7.1.1 and 7.2.1, respectively.
    (iii) Each length of completed CCSR and NMR aerial service wire 
shall be

[[Page 26078]]

tested for insulation imperfections in accordance with 
Sec. 1755.702(e)(7) and Sec. 1755.703(b)(5), respectively.
    (2) Capability tests. Tests on a quality assurance basis shall be 
made as frequently as is required for each manufacturer to determine 
and maintain compliance with:
    (i) Performance of the conductors;
    (ii) Performance of the conductor insulation and jacket material;
    (iii) Sequential marking and lettering;
    (iv) Mutual capacitance, capacitance unbalance, attenuation, and 
crosstalk;
    (v) Conductor resistance, resistance unbalance, and insulation 
resistance;
    (vi) Dielectric strength and fusing coordination;
    (vii) Impact, abrasion, static load, elongation, and plasticizer 
compatibility tests; and
    (viii) Cold temperature handling, light absorption, low temperature 
separation, and flammability tests.
    (c) Summary of records of electrical and physical tests. (1) Each 
manufacturer shall maintain suitable summary records for a period of at 
least 3 years of all electrical and physical tests required on 
completed wire as set forth in paragraph (b) of this section. The test 
data for a particular lot of aerial service wire shall be in a form 
such that it may be readily available to the purchaser or to RUS upon 
request.
    (2) Measurements and computed values shall be rounded off to the 
number of places or figures specified for the requirement according to 
ANSI/ICEA S-89-648-1993, paragraph 1.3.
    (d) Manufacturing irregularities. (1) Repairs to the insulation of 
CCSR aerial service wires are not permitted in wires supplied to end 
users under Secs. 1755.700 through 1755.704.
    (2) Repairs to the jacket of NMR aerial service wires are not 
permitted in wires supplied to end users under Secs. 1755.700 through 
1755.704.
    (e) Splicing. Splicing of completed CCSR and NMR aerial service 
wires shall comply with the requirement specified in ANSI/ICEA S-89-
648-1993, paragraph 8.1.1.
    (f) Preparation for shipment. (1) CCSR and NMR aerial service wire 
shall be shipped either in coils or on reels.
    (2) When CCSR and NMR aerial service wires are shipped on reels the 
following provisions shall apply:
    (i) The diameter of the drum shall be large enough to prevent 
damage to the wire from reeling or unreeling. The reels shall be 
substantial and so constructed as to prevent damage to the wire during 
shipment and handling;
    (ii) A waterproof corrugated board or other suitable means of 
protection accepted by RUS prior to its use may be applied to the reel. 
If the waterproof corrugated board or other suitable material is used 
for protection, it shall be suitably secured in place to prevent damage 
to the wire during storage and handling. The use of the waterproof 
corrugated board or other suitable means of protection shall be at the 
option of the manufacturer unless specified by the end user;
    (iii) The outer end of the wire shall be securely fastened to the 
reel head so as to prevent the wire from becoming loose in transit. The 
inner end of the wire shall be securely fastened in such a way as to 
make it readily available if required for electrical testing. Spikes, 
staples, or other fastening devices which penetrate the conductor 
insulation of the CCSR aerial service wire and the jacket of the NMR 
aerial service wire shall not be used. The method of fastening the wire 
ends shall be accepted by RUS prior to their use;
    (iv) Each length of wire shall be wound on a separate reel;
    (v) Each reel shall be plainly marked to indicate the direction in 
which it should be rolled to prevent loosening of the wire on the reel; 
and
    (vi) Each reel shall be stenciled or labeled on either one or both 
sides with the following information:
    (A) Customer order number;
    (B) Manufacturer's name and product code;
    (C) Factory reel number and year of manufacture;
    (D) Gauge of conductors and pair size of wire;
    (E) Length of wire; and
    (F) RUS designation letter ``K.''
    (3) When CCSR and NMR aerial service wires are shipped in coils the 
following provisions shall apply:
    (i) The diameter of the coil shall be large enough to prevent 
damage to the wire from coiling or uncoiling;
    (ii) The nominal length of the wire in a coil shall be 305 meters 
(1,000 feet). No coil shall be less than 290 meters (950 feet) long or 
more than 460 meters (1,500 feet) long; however, 25 percent of the 
total number of coils may be less than 305 meters (1,000 feet);
    (iii) The coils of wire shall be wound securely with strong tape in 
four separate evenly spaced places;
    (iv) The coils may be protected from damage by wrapping the coil 
with heavy paper, burlap, or other suitable material accepted by RUS 
prior to its use. The use of the heavy paper, burlap, or other suitable 
means of protection shall be at the option of the manufacturer unless 
specified by the end user; and
    (v) Each coil shall be tagged with the following information:
    (A) Customer order number;
    (B) Manufacturer's name and product code;
    (C) Year of manufacture;
    (D) Gauge of conductors and pair size of wire;
    (E) Length of wire; and
    (F) RUS designation letter ``K.''
    (4) In lieu of wrapping the coil with heavy paper, burlap, or other 
suitable material, the coil may be packaged in a moisture resistant 
carton.
    (5) When the coils are shipped in moisture resistant cartons, each 
carton shall be marked with the information specified in paragraphs 
(f)(3)(v)(A) through (f)(3)(v)(F) of this section.
    (6) Other methods of shipment may be used if accepted by RUS prior 
to their use.
    (7) When NMR aerial service wire is shipped, the ends of the wire 
shall be sealed in accordance with ANSI/ICEA S-89-648-1993, paragraph 
9.2.

    Dated: May 10, 1996.
Jill Long Thompson,
Under Secretary, Rural Development.
[FR Doc. 96-12834 Filed 5-23-96; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 3410-15-P