In the large and complex system of electrical connections, devices, wiring and equipment, we have countless small and big parts that are essential for the safe function of electrical and electronics goods. Cold Shrinkable Termination is one of the essential components used in electrical systems. It is a power cable accessory that ensures a safe connection of the cable with other cables and equipment. We at Yamuna Densons are an internationally recognized brand of providing power cable joining accessories of up to 66 kV. In this blog, we are sharing our valuable expertise in this domain to enlighten you about the various aspects of cold shrink.
Understanding Cable Termination and Joints
Before exploring the cold shrinkable termination, let’s understand what terminations and joints are. We all know that power cables are used to carry electricity from one end to another. When the cables are connected to the transformer, substations, machines or terminals, it is called terminations. On the other hand, when the two cables are connected to carry forward the supply of electricity, such as in an underground power cable, it is termed a joint. The cables are insulated throughout with PVC or XLPE, but at the terminal and joints, they are vulnerable and unsafe. So, termination and joining techniques are employed to provide a secure connection between the cable and other cables or equipment.
How Cold Shrinkable Termination Works
Cold shrinkable termination is a popular method developed in the late 1960s. In this method, an insulating material is used to seal the joints or terminations. It is termed cold shrink because no heat is involved. So how does the material get shrunk onto the cable, you may ask? In this accessory, an elastic sleeve or tube is already pre-stretched, and when the plastic core is removed, the material gets in its initial shrunk state.
The elastomeric material that shrinks may be made of silicon or EPDM. To apply it, the kit is positioned on the cable and then the core is removed. The shrinkable material contracts into tighter dimensions.
Benefits of Cold Shrinkable Termination
A cold shrinkable termination is beneficial in many ways. Here are some of its major benefits:
- Since there is no heat gun or similar source involved, the method is safe, especially in areas with flammable materials.
- It requires less skill compared to other termination methods.
- No risk of injuries and damages.
- Takes half the time than the heat shrink termination method.
- No flashover or erosion due to tracking.
- Suitable for a wide range of cable sizes and voltage classes.
- Provides sufficient mechanical strength to avoid excessive tension at the ends.
Conclusion
Security is vital to maintain the safety of power transmission, and the cold shrinkable termination is widely used for insulating and giving mechanical strength. At Yamuna Densons, we provide cold-shrink cable termination kits for up to 33 kV cable. We are certified by IS, IES, VDE and Cenelec standards. All our products are tested in the independent labs of CPRI and IPH. If you want to buy our accessories, reach out to our support team and share your specific needs.