Everything You Need to Know About Heat Shrink Terminations Kits
Most of us may know about cable insulation- a method to insulate conducting cables so that the current or voltage doesn’t leak outside the insulated layer. However, in power distribution, heavy machinery and communication networks, only insulation doesn’t guarantee safety. The connections need to be secured by special methods so that the joints or terminal ends are joined tightly with cables. This can be done using various methods and devices. Heat Shrink Terminations Kits are one of the most reliable and secure tools for cable insulation and termination. In this blog, we will cover as many aspects of these kits for you to gain a comprehensive understanding of the topic.
What
is Heat Shrink Termination Kit
Heat
Shrink Terminations kits are a set of tools that terminate power cables by
shrinking under the influence of high heat. These have significant value in LV,
MV and HV applications because they ensure electrical insulation, protection
against abrasion and wear, moisture, and prevent breakage under stress at the
termination point. The heat-shrinkable material creates a seal around the cable
when shrunk. These kits apply to PVC/XLPE/PILC insulated cables used in power
distribution, industrial grid, telecommunication, and other low to high-tension
systems.
The
key benefits of these kits are:
➔
Reliable
and long-lasting cable termination and insulation
➔
Resistance
against corrosive elements like moisture, chemicals and UV rays
➔
Compact
design and unlimited shelf life
➔
Ensures
the industry complies with electrical safety norms
Inside
Heat Shrink Termination Kits
Heat Shrink terminations kits usually contain an
electrolytic conductor of 1-core, 3-core, and 4-core for various types of
cables. In a standard kit, you will find:
●
Heat Shrink tubes that shrink on cable
when heat is applied to them. These protect and seal the cable from
environmental stress.
●
Stress control tubes distribute stress evenly
and avoid failure due to concentration.
●
Lugs that connect cable
conductors to the equipment or terminal distribution system.
●
Sealing Mastic creates a waterproof seal
and enhances moisture resistance.
●
Anti-tracking tubes to resist surface
current leakage, especially outdoors.
●
Cleaning wipes are used to clean the
cable insulation before termination.
How
Heat Shrinking Works
Here
is a simple explanation of how heat shrink terminations kits work:
➔
Cable
is stripped and cleaned with wipes.
➔
Lugs
on the terminal or equipment, and the cable are attached.
➔
Sealing
mastic is applied on the cable and termination point to relieve stress.
➔
The
material is shrunk using a heat gun or gas torch, creating an insulating layer.
➔
In
case of outdoor applications, anti-tracking tubes are installed.
➔
Ends
are sealed to protect against moisture, water and heat.
Last
Words
For
using heat shrink kits for termination, it is important to consider
compatibility and follow the instructions carefully. Although these are safe
and reliable tools, only expert professionals should perform heat shrinking. To
choose the right kit, professionals check the cable type, voltage class, no. of
core conductors, and conductor size for the correct lug size. They also
consider indoor and outdoor conditions. From power distribution in an
industrial setting to a utility transformer, the heat shrink terminations kits are a versatile tool for ensuring
safe cable connections.
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