10 Tips for Installing Distribution Connectors in the Icy Conditions

Each utility has a set of guidelines for weather conditions in their area which takes into consideration ice and wind loading. If distribution connectors are installed properly (per manufacturer instructions) then everything should work as designed.

Here are 10 installation tips to ensure automatic splices and automatic deadends can withstand winter weather conditions.

1. Make sure to apply momentary tension at installation
   • If the line has 15% or more of the conductor Rated Breaking Strength (RBS), then momentary tension is not needed
   • If less than 15%, need to apply momentary tension by pulling onto the conductor after installation.  Once momentary tension has been applied onto the splice, line tension can drop lower than 15% without affecting splice performance
2. All automatic splices are rated at a minimum of 95% of RBS so they will be able to handle added weight created by ice and wind loading
3. If temperature is below -20 Celsius, keep splices inside truck to prevent inhibitor from freezing. This will ease installation
4. Splices must not be installed in slack span applications where line tension is less than 5% of RBS.
5. Follow installation instructions most importantly wire brush conductor
6. Make sure conductor is straight, in lay and free from burrs
7. Do not use knife to mark the conductor
8. If you used tape to mark conductor, make sure to remove after installation
9. Pull onto the conductor after installation and before releasing hoist to make sure it is seated and installed correctly
10. Conductor info and range are printed onto the splice

Blog: Winter Tips for Handling Substation and Transmission Components