MIL-DTL-915/8 Types DSS, TSS, FSS, and 7SS Shipboard Cable

Mil-Spec Military part number MIL-DTL-915/8 is comprised of four cable-type designations: DSS, TSS, FSS, and 7SS. The cable is rated for 600 volts and can be categorized by the Standard Identification Code using Method 3. All 915/8 cords are constructed with the required number of conductors insulated with synthetic rubber cabled together with rubber fillers as needed to make a firm, round assembly. The assembly is then wrapped by a belt of synthetic rubber which is enclosed in a 34 AWG tin-coated copper braid, then jacketed either with Polychloroprene (also known as Neoprene) or chlorosulfonated polyethylene. This cable is watertight and offers flexing service. The cord is constructed with the required number of conductors along with fibrous fillers and optional binder tape. Watertight cables can operate in a wide variety of situations, including through bulkheads and between decks.

What does the cable designation DSS mean?

In the cable designation for DSS, the letter D refers to two conductors, S refers to shielding, and the second S refers to flexing service.

What does the cable designation TSS mean?

In the cable designation for TSS, the letter T refers to three conductors, S refers to shielding, and the second S refers to flexing service.

What does the cable designation FSS mean?

In the cable designation for FSS, the letter F refers to four conductors, S refers to shielding, and the second S refers to flexing service.

What does the cable designation 7SS mean?

In the cable designation for 7SS, 7 refers to seven conductors, S refers to shielding, and the second S refers to flexing service.

M915/8 Construction:

• • Conductors: Tin-coated copper with class B stranding
  • Insulation: Synthetic Rubber
  • Jacket: Polychloroprene (also known as Neoprene) or chlorosulfonated polyethylene

M915/8 Ratings and Approvals

• • Mil-Spec 915/8
  • MIL-DTL-915
  • Navy Shipboard Spec:
    • DSS (two conductors)
    • TSS (three conductors)
    • FSS (four conductors)
    • 7SS (seven conductors)
  • 600 volts

Features and Benefits of M915/8 Cords

• Watertight cables can operate in a wide variety of situations, including through bulkheads and between decks.
• Synthetic rubber is especially valued as an insulation material because of its resistance to electricity, impermeability, and toughness.
• Polychloroprene (also referred to as Neoprene) is valued in submarine cabling due to its inherent resistance to oil, grease, acids, and acetonic solvents, its ability to resist damage from abrasion, flexing, and twisting, as well as its ability to withstand temperatures as low as −50°C, exposure to weathering, ozone, and water immersion.
• Chlorosulfonated Polyethylene provides excellent resistance to ozone, oxidation, and adverse weather condition. Similar to other polyethylenes, it is resistant to oil, but at much higher temperatures.
• Portable cords with flexing service permit use in applications where repeated use may require flexing without damaging the cord’s internal conductors