Avoid These Mistakes When Using Heat Shrinkable Cable Termination

 Cables are connected to various fixtures like meter boxes, isolators, power sources, and control panels through a special method known as termination. It is a necessary way by which the connection is secured. At high voltage transmission, the potential of the charge travelling through the cable is very high, which can lead to short circuits and overvoltage through the air when the conductors are unprotected. Moreover, when the cables are connected to devices like a bus bar, the strain on them is quite high, which cannot be handled by the cable because of its low mechanical strength. Therefore, Heat Shrinkable Cable Termination is used to protect cables and make them survive various environmental conditions for a long period.

But heat shrink is not an unskilled method. It requires sufficient knowledge and skills to carry out the process safely. Here are the common mistakes that one must avoid while using heat-shrinkable cable termination:

Poorly Prepared Cable

Before applying the connector and the shrink tube, the cable is prepared for the termination. In this, a part of the insulation layer is removed by stripping and cutting the cable with the cutter to the correct length. Any dirt, grease, or dust present on the conductor should be removed. If the cores are not properly aligned, it can lead to discharge.

Uneven Heating

The heat that is being applied needs to be even. That’s why an industrial heat gun or other similar source needs to be used; otherwise, the tubing may develop bubbles and gaps due to uneven heating of the shrink. Use of lighter or other makeshift tools must be avoided.

Incomplete Shrinking

Poor quality shrinking of heat shrink cable termination can be caused by several factors. Poor crimping of cable, air, or contamination getting trapped inside the tubing during installation and incomplete shrinking are the key reasons that lead to long-term defects. This can create poor termination, and the entire material of the kit gets wasted in the process.

Unfavorable Surrounding

The unfavorable surroundings can be a too moist, wet or dusty environment of the place where the termination is being carried out. The moisture and dirt can get into the shrink tubes and damage the tubing after a while.

Selecting the Wrong Heat Shrink

Choosing the right heat-shrinkable cable termination is the main part of the process. The right insulation, voltage compatibility, and other parts of the kits must be appropriate for terminating the cable. Check the compliance with EN and IS standards for quality assurance.

Conclusion

When joining cables or terminating a cable at an electrical joint, common mistakes must be avoided. The termination must be carried out in a suitable environment. Its crimping and preparation must be done properly. The heat that is being applied should be even by using a heat gun. And lastly, make sure you choose the heat-shrinkable cable termination from a reliable manufacturing brand.