Raychem ALK (Airport Lighting Kit) Splice Sealing Kit



Raychem ALK Splice Seal Kit
Heat-Shrink Airport Lighting Kit

 These environmental Raychem ALK Splice Sealing Kits enhance the ability of type L-823 plug and receptacle connectors to meet FAA specifications. 

MRS Repair Sleeves



MRS Repair Sleeves

   MRS Repair Sleeves are heat-shrink wraparound flame-retardant sleeve which is rated to 2kV.  The MRS wraparound mining repair sleeve provides an efficient method of repairing insulation on flexible cables.  The MRS Repair Sleeve also repairs jacket damage on high-voltage cable where a splice is not required.  MRS Repair Sleeves are a specially formulated, flame retardant, flexible wraparound sleeve which installs with a low profile quickly and easily which means the cable can be returned to service in minutes.  The MRS Repair Sleeve is ideal for use on trailing cable as well as flexible-construction cables and conduits. 

Kits contain a wraparound MRS Repair Sleeve and stainless steel channel closure.  MRS Repair Sleeves are precoated with adhesive. 

MSHA approved.

Rayvolve RVS Splice Covers




Rayvolve RVS Splice Cover

 

Raychem's Rayvolve RVS Splice Cover kit is a cold applied splice which are the easy "roll-on" way to insulate and seal 1/C cable connections up to 1000V.  The Rayvolve RVS Splice Cover utilizes the gripping force of the specially formulated EPDM elastomer combined with the high-performance sealant to form a water-resistant insulating sleeve.  The Rayvolve RVS Splice Cover is UL listed and CSA certified for direct burial application over in-line compression connectors. 

The Rayvolve RVS Splice Cover features a dual wall design with an entrapped lubricant, making installation fast and simple.  The Rayvolve RVS Splice Cover rolls onto the cable with minimal effort, even at temperatures below -15°F (-25°C).  The cable can be energized immediately.  It is ideal for use where gas or electric heating devices are not approved.

The Rayvolve RVS Splice Cover is RUS accepted for use as a secondary tap or splice cover and is for use on standard poly- or elastomeric-insulated cables. Use the Rayvolve RVS Splice Cover to insulate and seal in-line compression connectors or to seal terminal lugs. 

Rayvolve RVS Splice Covers Sizes are shown below:

Catalog No   Conductor Size (AWG/kcmil)

RVS-11        #8-2/0 AWG                

RVS-12        1/0-250 kcmil               

RVS-13        250-600 kcmil              

RVS-14        600-1000 kcmil            

 Note:  Confirm selection with Cable OD dimensions
 to assure proper sizing 

Each Kit contains one Rayvolve RVS Splice cover sleeve and sealant strip.  Kits do not contain connectors.  For stub connection, see Rayvolve RVC Splice Cover kit.

WCSM Tubing

For specific product information about WCSM tubing and sizing, we have set up a WCSM dedicated domain.  Go take a look if that sounds like something that might answer some of your questions.  www.wcsmtubing.com

Gel In-Line Splice Kit (GILS)



Gel In-Line Splices (GILS)

The Gel In-Line Splice Kit (GILS) is a water resistant splice kit for power cable rated to 1000V.  Gel In-Line Splice (GILS) kits offer a state-of the-art sealed splice for both underground, buried and overhead applications.  Gel In-Line Splice (GILS) closures offer a fast and simple method for splicing, insulating, and environmentally sealing low-volage cable splices. 

The Gel In-Line Splice (GILS) closure, with PowerGel sealant, covers and seals the splice quickly and easily, saving both time and effort.  PowerGel sealant is rated to 95°C.  The Gel In-Line Splice (GILS) closure is simple to re-enter because the PowerGel sealant pulls away leaving a clean connection.  The only tools required to install the Gel In-Line Splice (GILS) closure in the field are a 5/16" allen wrench or a torque wrench and a knife. 

Small housings allow for installation of the Gel In-Line Splice (GILS) to be installed in cramped location and is water tight for use in all locations.  The connector provided with the Gel In-Line Splice (GILS) accomodates copper and/or aluminum cables. Also, Gel In-Line Splices (GILS) are UV resistant and qualified for temperatures from -40°C to 90°C.

The Gel In-Line Splice (GILS) is supplied in two sizes.

 Gel In-Line Splice - GILS-4/0 for conductor size #2-4/0

Gel In-Line Splice -GILS- 350 for conductor size #1/0-350



Gel In-Line Splice Kit (GILS) diagram



GelWrap Splice Closures

 

Gelwrap Splice

 

GelWrap Splice Closures is a cold-applied water resistant wraparound splice closure.  The GelWrap Splice Closure quickly insulates and seals buried electrical connections rated up to 1000 volts.  GelWrap Splice Closures are designed to handle harsh environments of direct burial and manhole applications and is also suitable for insulation and jacket repair. 

GelWrap Splice Closures are simple to install with a factory cured PowerGel silicone sealant in the Gelwrap Splice Closure which encapsulates the connection.  The gel is easily stretched and very sticky which forms around the cable, connector and itself which blocks moisture from entering the splice. 

Other common uses for GelWrap Splice Closures: LV cable repair splices, MV cable repair, MV splice rejacketing, Elbow sealing sleeve, 

Commonly used GelWrap Splice Closure sizes: 

GelWrap-18/4-100

GelWrap-18/4-150

GelWrap-18/4 -200

GelWrap-18/4-250

GelWrap-18/4-300

GelWrap-33/10-150

GelWrap-33/10-200

GelWrap-33/10-250

GelWrap-33/10-300

GelWrap-33/10-350

GelWrap-50/20-200

GelWrap-50/20-250

GelWrap-50/20-300

GelWrap-50/20-350

GelWrap-50/20-400

UL Listed GelWrap Splice Closure Sizes

 (which includes stainless steel cable tie wraps):

GelWrap-18/4-150UL

GelWrap-18/4 -200UL

GelWrap-18/4-250UL

GelWrap-18/4-300UL

GelWrap-18/4-350UL

GelWrap-18/4-400UL

GelWrap-18/4-450UL

GelWrap-18/4-500UL

GelWrap-18/4-550UL

GelWrap-18/4-600UL

Easy Installation Instructions for GelWrap Splice Closures (no tools required):

   


Center GelWrap Splice Closure sleeve over connector.



Wrap GelWrap Splice Closure around connector and shut
snap locks over entire length of sleeve.



Install cable ties at outermost notches of snap lock. 
GelWrap Splice is now complete.



Tyco Electronics Product List

Tyco Electronics / Tyco Connectivity / Tyco Energy is a manufacturer of electronic components for consumer and industrial products.  They offer a broad range of products designed to be used to seal, protect, connect and insulate cable and electrical applications.

Tyco Electronics has such a wide range of products available that it is pointless to list any here.  Instead, we will just list the categories here:

Low Voltage Splices and Taps 

Gelwrap, GILS, Rayvolve, MWMT, WCSM, FCSM, CRSM, CRSM CT, MRS, ALK, LVSA-3, LV-MSK, GelCap, RVC, MCK, GTAP, Gelcap SL, GHFC, Gelport, Smart Limiter

Medium Voltage Cable Accessories 

HVS-500, HVSA-500, HVS-J, HVS-C-RJ, HVS-C-1520S, HVS-S-1520S, HVS1/C, TECK Splice, HVS-Shim, HVS-3, HVS-3/C Mod Kit, HVS/HVSR, HVS-3-1590S, HVS-T, HVS/HVSA-3, HVSY, HVSH, HVES, HV-MSK, CSJA, CSJG, HVT-50, HVT-Z, TFT-R, TFT-E, MOD-3, GelCap, MCK-5, ELB, Deadbreak Stand-off Plug, ESA

High Voltage Cable Accessories and Insulators 

EHVS, EHVT, OHVT, PHVS/PHVT, Link Boxes, EHVT Mounting Bracket, HVIA Cable Stripper

Tubing and Molded Parts 

RNF-100, MWTM, WCSM, FCSM, LVIT, ESC Sealing Caps, CFTS Seals, CBR Breakout Boot

Tapes and Sealants 

Electrical PVC Tape, CRPS, FSTW, MVFT, LVBT, HVBT

Asset and Wildlife Protection 

HVBT, BBIT, BPTM, HVIS, RRBB, HVBC, BISG, BCAC, BCIC, MVFT, MVCC, BCIC, MVLC, HVCE, HVBS, RRGS

Fastest Way to Splice Low Voltage Cable?

Question:  What is the fastest way to splice low voltage cable?

Answer:  GHFC.  No question.

It is reliable, it is proven, it is simple.  No special tools.  No training required.  Approved for direct bury.  If you aren't using this product; what are you using instead?  How much labor is being wasted?  Watch this video and estimate it for yourself. 

In Line Cold Splice for a #16 Cable

Question:  I love using the GHFC.  It is incredibly fast, easy and reliable.  Do you have a GHFC size that will work with #16 cable?

Answer:  Unfortunately, the #16 wire is just barely outside of the use range for the GHFC-1-90.  The GHFC-1-90 is approved for use on a #14 cable (.0641" diameter) and a #16 cable has a diameter of .0508".  This is obviously incredibly close with a difference of only 13 thousands of an inch, but still - it just can't be sanctioned.  The simplest solution in a case like this would be to purchase some additional GelTek tape.  Even a single wrap around the wire would get its diameter on par with the #14 (or greater) and the GHFC could then be used.  One extra step, but now you can go back to using the simple and easy GHFC inline splice.

CFTS Heat Shrink Cabinet Feed Through

     How do you size CFTS?

     CFTS (stands for heat shrink cabinet feed through seal) is available in 5 different sizes.  Simply enough; these are CFTS-1, CFTS-2, CFTS-3, CFTS-4 and CFTS-5.  They are generally sized by the minimum and maximum cable diameter that can be used with them.

CFTS-1 :  Min: .2"    Max:  .4"

CFTS-2 :  Min: ..25"    Max:  ..65"

CFTS-3 :  Min: .55"    Max:  1.0"

CFTS-4 :  Min: .80"    Max:  1.45"

CFTS-5 :  Min: 1.45"    Max:  2.40"

HVT Selection - Post 3

     So you've been through HVT Selection guide steps 1 and 2.

     We've already touched on the importance of knowing whether your cable is shielded or not.  We've also touched on the importance of knowing how many volts will be running through your cable.  Now we need to look at shielding types for the HVT and conductor size for the HVT-50.

     If you already know your cable is SHIELDED and you know the voltage; you are ready to look at shielding type.  Below is a list of the different shielding options and how that option is conveyed on the HVT nomenclature.

    Copper tape is indicated by a G or SG
    Wire shield, Lead sheath and Unishield are also indicated by a G or SG
    URD is indicated by a J or SJ
    Jacketed concentric neutral (JCN) is indicated as a J / SJ (as is concentric neutral and LC shield)

     If you already know that your cable is non-shielded (and you know the voltage is going to be less than 5000 volts; then you are comfortable on the HVT-50 heat shrink splice kit path.  Next up you need to know the conductor size.  The Raychem heat shrink sleeve splices are what actually seal up and protect the cable.  In order to be certain the proper seal will be attained; it is imperative that we know the dimensions of your cable and your conductors.

     Up next - step 4 in the HVT selection guide.

Shielded vs Non-Shielded Cable - High Voltage Termination

How to determine which Raychem components you need to complete your high voltage termination (greater than 1000 volts).  (Step 1 was here).

Step 2a:  Ok, your cable is shielded.  What is the voltage requirement?  

If it is 5 kV; you will be looking at the HVT-8 series

If it is 8 kV; you will be looking at the HVT-8 series

If it is 15 kV; you will be looking at the HVT-15 series

If it is 25 kV; you will be looking at the HVT-25 series

If it is 35 kV; you will be looking at the HVT-35 series

If it is 46 kV; you will be looking at the HVT-460 series

If it is 69 kV; you will be looking at the HVT-690 series

Step 2b:  Ok, your cable is non-shielded.  What is the voltage requirement?

If it is <1000 volts; you are going to be using a WCSM heat shrink sleeve

If it 1000 volts - 5000 volts; you are going to be looking at the HVT-50 family.

Up tomorrow:

Step 3a and 3b

High Voltage Terminations: Shielded vs Non-Shielded in Raychem Heat Shrink Sleeves

     When using Raychem high voltage terminations (meaning great than 1000 volts for the sake of this discussion) it is vital that we pair the correct Raychem termination kits so that it matches the cable type it is to be used with.  There are a few "tricks of the trade" that I will be discussing over the course of the next few weeks.

     Step 1:  We ask the customer, "is the cable shielded or non-shielded?"

     If the answer is 'shielded' - that tells us we will be following a line of questioning that will help us determine specifically which HVT product is correct for their application.

     If the answer is 'non-shielded' that tells us that our subsequent questions will help us determine specifically which of the HVT-50 series heat shrink sleeve terminations we will require.

Shielded = HVT
Non-Shielded = HVT-50

Stay tuned tomorrow for "Step 2"

Flame Retardant Heat Shrink Sleeve (FCSM)

Question:  Does Raychem have a flame retardant product?

Answer:  Absolutely.  The most commonly sold flame retardant heat shrink tubing is Raychem's FCSM product. It is very, very similar to the WCSM product; but flame retardant.  It is rated for use at 2000 volts.  FCSM is available either coated (with a sealant) or un-coated (no sealant).  

Available in 1200mm sticks (4 feet) FCSM and having a 3:1 shrink ration; FCSM is a very versatile product; capable of serving multiple duties. 

Raychem Sleeves -S vs -U. What do they mean?

Question:  I'm looking at some of the Raychem / Tyco Electronics part numbers.  How do I determine if I need the -S or the -U part?


Answer:  That part of the shrink sleeve nomenclature lets you know whether the part you are buying is internally coated with an adhesive sealant or not.  Uncoated shrink tubing would offer electrical insulation and physical protection; but would not offer a true seal (in the sense that it could be underground or underwater as examples). 

Coated tubing on the other hand is used far more often than uncoated tubing.  It provides a true seal; provides stress relief; provides physical protection and it provides electrical insulation.

If you do happen to have an application that will require no sealant, there is a decent chance (on a select group of products) that you might be able to get an uncoated version.  If that is the case; you could likely save a little bit on cost.  Check with us to find out!

What is TECK Cable?

     Question:  What is TECK Cable?

Answer:  It is a flexible armored cable.  It utilizes a design of flexible armor

along with two layers of PVC jacketing.  It was originally used in mining

but has since taken on a wide range of different electrical applications.  

At first glance, splicing a TECK cable might seem complicated; but it really isn't.

That is, as long as you've got a Raychem TECK splice kit handy.  The TECK kit

utilizes multiple different Raychem shrink sleeves (WCSM and CRSM) in order

to recreate the same strength, thickness and electrical properties as the original cable had.  

TECK splices can be used on cable ranging from 1000 volts to 15kV.

What is Included in a CRSM-CT Kit?

     Question:  Ok, I need to purchase a CRSM-CT because I need to splice a cable tap.  That I know.  What I don't know is what is included in the kit that I'm buying.

     Answer:  I understand.  Here is what you will get.  For the purpose of this example; I'm using a CRSM-CT 34/10-150 but the components will not change if you need a 53/13 or an 84/20.

Possibly most importantly; each kit contains the instruction sheet!

The CRSM-CT shrink sleeve including stainless steel rail

Black cloth tape, sealant strip and cable ties.

    And there you have it.  All of the components of the CRSM-CT Cable Tap Splicing Kit.  You will need to supply your own propane torch and method for making sure the cable is clean (solvent/rag/etc). 

How Do I Seal Parallel Wires?

Question:  How do I seal up parallel, touching wires when dealing with a tap?

Answer:  It is probably a lot easier than you think.  Raychem's CRSM is designed for applications exactly like that.  Here is a diagram of what the tap looks like after installation:

Notice the parallel wires to the left

In this case, the CRSM-CT includes (as one of the components) a sealant strip that is wrapped (in a figure-8 pattern around and through the two wires that are touching.  This (along with the adhesive of the CRSM-CT shrink sleeve) acts to encapsulate that section of the two wires and protect the connection.

Shelf Life of Raychem (or Covalence) Heat Shrink Sleeves?

Question:  What is the shelf life of Raychem / Tyco Electronics / TE heat shrink sleeves / Covalence Seal for Life shrink sleeves?

Answer:  Let's take a long look at it first.  These are products that are designed to be installed and then offer corrosion protection or sealing for the life of the electrical system or pipeline.  So, these are manufactured as stable products that will require no updating for the systems' life. 

     The only stipulation is that these products must be stored properly prior to use.  Let's look at a worst case scenario.  Pretend you remove all sleeves and components from their packaging and lay them in your back yard for a year or two.  Over the course of those two years; you're likely to see the adhesives compromised as they become caked with dirt/mud/bugs/etc.  As a result - though the shrink sleeve will still shrink; the adhesive is going to be too filthy to bond to anything.  If a sealant doesn't bond properly - a seal will not properly form and as a result; the product will not work as intended.

     I'm in a unique position.  Our warehouse has been used to stock Raychem (and Covalence) heat shrink materials since 1989.  Over that time; we've seen products come and go; we've seen products changed and we've seen a few products become obsolete.  As a result; I've gotten the chance to install products (in demonstrations or for training) that have been sitting on a box; on our shelf; in an warehouse that is not temperature controlled (we are in Houston, Texas).  I've installed products that have been sitting for 25 years (stored "properly").  I've then had the chance to examine and evaluate those products.  They've performed just as well as if they were manufactured in the previous week. 

     So to sum up:  If you've properly stored the product and components - the shelf life is essentially indefinite.

Easiest Way to Seal a Cable Splice?

     Look no further than the GHFC!  This product is rated to 1000 volts and utilizes Raychem's patented Gel-Tek technology to assure a long lasting, water proof seal.  The GHFC can be used of low voltage cable taps or splices.  GHFC is also approved for underground splicing (to ANSI C119.1); for overhead cables and is ideally made for street lighting applications.

     Once the cable is crimped and prepared; the GHFC literally takes two seconds to install.  It is just as easy as snapping your fingers!

Available in four sizes:

GHFC-1-90 

GHFC-2-90

GHFC-2.5-90

GHFC 3-90

Contact us so that we can help you select the proper size.

See an installation video and product information HERE.

What is the Fastest and Easiest Way to Splice a Low Voltage Cable?

Question:  What is the fastest and easiest way to splice low voltage cable?

Answer:  No question.  Utilize Raychem's Gel technology.  It is available in multiple forms for multiple applications.  It is incredibly fast.  It is incredibly simple.  It is very economical.  

Why would you use anything else?

This technology is used in GILS (Gel Inline Splice), Gelwrap, Gelcap SL Covers for street lights, GHFC, Gelcap Splice Covers, Gtap Splice and Gelport.  

Watch this video to see just how simple using this product is.

How Do I Repair a Cable?

Question:  I have a damaged cable, how do I repair it?

Answer:  The first thing you're doing to need to do is get yourself a properly sized CRSM wrap around repair system for power cable oversheaths.  

Step 1:  Clean the damaged area on the cable and the adjacent (undamaged) PE jacket.  

Lightly abrading the PE will assure the strongest possible bond. 

Step 2:  Remove the release paper from the CRSM shrink sleeve

Step 3:  Wrap the CRSM sleeve in place

Step 4:  Secure the rail and channel closure system in order to hold the CRSM in the shape 

of a tube during the shrink process.

Step 5:  Fire up your propane torch or industrial hot air gun and begin shrinking the sleeve; starting in the middle and moving your heat source circumstantially around the shrink sleeve.

Step 6:  Continue shrink the CRSM sleeve; working your way to one edge; 

then back to the middle; then out to the other edge.

Step 7:  Check to see that you have adhesive flow on both ends of the shrink sleeve (along the cable).  This is your seal.  If that adhesive is there; and the CRSM sleeve is conformed to the cable;

 you are finished.  Simple and easy!

How Do I Shrink a Raychem (Tyco Electronics) Heat Shrink Sleeve?

Question:  How do I shrink a Raychem heat shrink sleeve?

Answer:  You've got a couple of options.  First and foremost it is important to know that the backing of the sleeve will begin to shrink once it reaches a temperature in the vicinity of 267F (there is a generalization as some Raychem sleeve backings do shrink at higher or lower temperatures than this).

In any case; the question now becomes; how do I get the backing to reach that 267F temperature?  This can be done easily with a small propane (or other) torch.  You want to make sure that you have a torch that puts out a 'bushy', broad flame.  Acetylene or welding torches will not work well in this role.

Bernzomatic torches do an excellent job of shrinking our Raychem heat shrink sleeves.

An industrial hot air gun can also be used to excellent results.

 Otherwise, you also have the option of using a hot air gun of some kind to do the job.  It could possibly take a bit longer (depending on the air gun) but ultimately you will achieve the same exact result.

CRSM Cable Repair Sleeves

     CRSM (Cable Repair Sleeves) are a multi-function heat shrink sleeve system used for a wide variety of cable repairs and low (1000 volt) splicing.  Utilizing a rail and channel mechanical closure system (which has been around since the 1960's), this product utilizes a high expansion backing and a thick adhesive sealant to cover many, many varieties of electrical repair/splice requirement.

     CRSM was invented in the 1970's.  Some might read that and think "wow; what an ancient technology; surely there is something newer out there."  Others (like me) would look at that and say "wow - 40 years of use and this product is still a leader in its field.  If there were problems with this product; they would certainly have been discovered by now."

     This product is available in a number of different sizes and widths.  The nomenclature is as follows:  the first number is the supplied ID of the tube (once the rail and channel is in place).  The second number is the fully recovered ID of the shrink sleeve.  The third number is the 'length' (some would say width) of the tube - or the coverage of the sleeve along the cable. 

Standard Sizes:

CRSM 34/10-200
CRSM 34/10-1200

CRSM 53/13-200

CRSM 53/13-1200

CRSM 84/20-750

CRSM 84/20-1200

CRSM 107/29-1000

CRSM 107/29-1200

CRSM 143/36-1200

CRSM 198/55-1200

Call or email today for pricing:  936/321-3333 or stacey@jsicoatings.com

WCSM Sizing Change

     WCSM Heavy Wall Sealant Coated Tubing has recently gone through a sizing adjustment.  In almost every case, this is an incredibly minor change as the tubing has simply been expanded a little bit more and re-named.  In every case the tubing recovers down to the very same dimension.

What used to be WCSM 9/3-1200-S is now WCSM 12/3-1200-S 

This simply means that the WCSM shrink sleeve used to be supplied with a 9mm ID (.354")

but is now supplied with an ID of 12MM (.47").  

This change has effectively modified this WCSM (and all WCSM sizes) to cover 

a larger range of wire and connector sizes.

What used to be WCSM 13/4-1200-S is now WCSM 16/4-1200-S 

This simply means that the WCSM shrink sleeve used to be supplied with a 13 mm ID (.51") but is now supplied with an ID of 16 mm (.629")

 What used to be WCSM 20/6-1200-S is now WCSM 24/6-1200-S 

This simply means that the WCSM shrink sleeve used to be supplied with a 20 mm ID (.787") but is now supplied with an ID of 24 mm (.94")

What used to be WCSM 33/8-1200-S is now WCSM 34/8-1200-S

This simply means that the WCSM shrink sleeve used to be supplied with a 33 mm ID (1.299") but is now supplied with an ID of 34 mm (1.338")

What used to be WCSM 43/12-1200-S is now WCSM 48/12-1200-S 

This simply means that the WCSM shrink sleeve used to be supplied with a 43 mm ID (1.692") but is now supplied with an ID of 48 mm (1.889")

 What used to be WCSM 51/16-1200-S is now WCSM 56/16-1200-S 

This simply means that the WCSM shrink sleeve used to be supplied with a 51 mm ID (2.00") but is now supplied with an ID of 56 mm (2.20")

What used to be WCSM 70/21-1200-S is now WCSM 70/20-1200-S 

In this case, the change means that the WCSM 70/20, when fully recovered 

is 1 mm smaller at .787" instead of .826"

What used to be WCSM 105/30-1200-S is now WCSM 110/30-1200-S 

This simply means that the WCSM shrink sleeve used to be supplied with a 105 mm ID (4.13") but is now supplied with an ID of 110 mm (4.33")

What used to be WCSM 130/36-1200-S is now WCSM 130/35-1200-S

In this case, the change means that the WCSM 130/35, when fully recovered 

is 1 mm smaller at 1.377" instead of 1.417"

WCSM Stock

It seems to come up an awful lot:  What stock do you have on WCSM?

Here is what we have at this exact moment: July 1, 2013
(does not include orders in process or in transit from the plant)

300 each WCSM 12/3-1200-S
450 each WCSM 16/4-1200-S
1850 each WCSM 20/6-1200-S
250 each WCSM 34/8-1200-S
200 each WCSM 48/12-1200-S
100 each WCSM 56/16-1200-S
75 each WCSM 70/20-1200-S

Call us today for pricing!  We accept Visa or Mastercard (in many cases) and offer Net 30 once we've gone through your standard credit application form.

WCSM 24/6-1200-S IN STOCK 6/28/13

     I understand that through some kind of unlikely chain of events, the plant is currently unable to supply WCSM 24/6-1200-S for 5-6 weeks.  I can also understand what a huge problem this can be for many customers out there.

     We currently have this part available and ready to ship.  Actually, we have the previous size (WCSM 20/6-1200-S) available to ship (I think I have ~1800 pieces - all 4 feet long; so 7200 feet of material).

     The only difference between the WCSM 24/6 and the WCSM 20/6 is that the 20/6 is supplied with a 4mm smaller ID.  It will still work exactly the same and shrink down to the same wire sizes.  WCSM 20/6 was the standard part for many, many years until Tyco decided to supply the tube a little larger a few months back.  So - call us today - 936/321-3333 for a quote.

How do I Splice a Medium Voltage Cable?

     How Do I Splice a Medium Voltage Cable?

     Boy, you would really think this was a simple question to answer.  It's not.  The first problem is that there are a number of different types of 'medium voltage' cable; and each can have different components (and thus different splicing requirements).  Let's look through a few of those.

1. Cable can be 'jacketed' or 'non-jacketed' (explanation here).
2. Cable can be 1/C or 3/C (explanation here).
3. Cable can be Armored (or not - explanation here).
4. Cable can contain 'concentric neutral cables' or 'copper tape shield' (explanation here).
5. Cable can be designed for anything between 5kV and 35kV.

     There may even be other different cable configurations.  The key though, is that when making a cable splice, the goal is to recreate the structure of the cable in the splice.  So, if your cable is 3/C Armored - then you need to be sure you are purchasing a splice kit which will be able to splice three conductors and be armored.

     As an example here in this post, I will look at the installation steps for splicing a 1/C, jacketed, concentric neutral cable at 25 kV. 

1. Make sure the HVS Medium Voltage Splice Kit you've purchased is correctly sized for your cable!
2. Remove the cable jacket to the dimensions shown on the installation sheet.
3. Fold back the neutral wires on 'side 1' and trim the neutral wires on the other side.
4. Use a tie wrap to keep unneeded concentric wires out of the way (to avoid damaging them)
5. Abrade insulation (abrading the PE improves the bond of the HVS)
6. Place heat shrink tube over cable and then install connector.
7. Apply SRM at semi conductor cutback (Stress Relief Material)
8. Apply SRM over connector
9. Apply Silicone Grease (SG)
10. Put black stress control tube in place and shrink with a gas torch.
11. Apply red sealant butted up against the black stress control tube on the semi-con.
12. Position black/red triple layer tube in place and shrink.  Begin shrinking in the middle and move toward one end of tube.  Then come back to middle and work toward other end.
13. Connect and splice neutral wires and bend them to splice.
14. Install shielding mesh by spiral wrapping.
15. Position the wrap around shrink sleeve and secure the channel (to hold it in place).
16. Shrink the sleeve.
17. Congratulations, you've done it! 

What is Copper Tape Shield Cable?

     Most medium voltage cable is shielded some how.  One of the methods for shielding the cable is to utilize a copper table (can also be aluminum). As I've said elsewhere, if a cable has a copper tape shield, then it is beyond important that any splice simulate a copper shield as well.  You do not want to 'lose' hundreds of feet of wire because one foot splice wasn't properly completed!

What is Concentric Neutral Cable?

Question:  What is Concentric Neutral Cable?

The "concentric neutral" is the right most wires in this photo.

Answer:  In concentric neutral cable, the concentric neutral wires primarily serve two purposes:

1.  They act as the neutral (shocking revelation!)

2.  They  act as the ground; disbursing the current throughout the length of the cable if needed. 

Why is this important when selecting a medium voltage splice?  Because the splice area needs to have this same concentric neutral set up that the cable itself (as manufactured) has.  If the concentric neutral isn't recreated in the splice area then it can lead to a failure of the entire cable in a catastrophic event.  

When dealing with the electrical world; the devil really is in the details...so don't overlook them!

Raychem Elite Distributor

     Joint Specialists is an Elite Distributor for Raychem heat shrinkable products.  This means that, due to our high volume buying history, our product commitment, our product expertise and our financial commitment to keeping a stock of Raychem material on hand; we are treated as a valued piece of the world wide Raychem shrink sleeve distribution network. 
 
     Unfortunately, there are a lot of "resellers" out there who do nothing more than attempt to act as a commodity broker; offering anything that any customer might request.  We do not believe this is the best way to run a business - and we do not believe this sort of approach will truly benefit the product line (or the customers) over the long term. 

     It is really incredible to hear the shock in someone's voice when they have called us requesting pricing on a part.  The conversation might go something like this:

Customer:  "Wait, you know what I'm talking about?? You've heard of this product?"

Joint Specialists:  "Yes, we stock that product.  I've currently got 2000 sitting on the shelf."

Customer:  "Are you serious!?!  I've been looking for this stuff all over the place and no one has ever even heard of it."

Joint Specialists:  "Well, I've got it right here and I can ship some out today..."

Customer:  "Oh man; I wish I'd found you two weeks ago!"

     So, what are you waiting for?  Call us today.  Let us help you.  Let us make your life easier.  Let us save you headaches and problems.  Let us get your material on its way to you so that you can focus on the other 47 items you're trying to track down!

What is Armored Cable?

     Another question you must answer when trying to purchase a Raychem medium voltage splice of some kind is:  do you have armored cable?  An easier question to answer if you know what 'armored cable' is! 

     Well, it is exactly what it sounds like.  Armored cable is a cable with 'armor' built into it.  This armor gives the cable extra physical protection from potential physical damage; thus (in theory) increasing the expected life of the cable.  Here is a photo:

What do 1/C and 3/C Mean When Ordering Raychem Heat Shrink?

Question:  Looking through some of the medium voltage heat shrink splice options in your catalog; I see a designation for 1/C and 3/C.  What do those mean?

Answer:  This one is fairly simple!  The 'C' stands for conductors, so a 1/C cable has only one conductor in it.  A 3/C on the other hand has..........yes; three conductors.  See photos below in case you need it spelled out even further.

A one conductor cable.

A three conductor cable.

     It probably isn't difficult to understand why it is important to know whether you have a 1/C or a 3/C cable prior to ordering a splice kit.  Clearly, the 3/C splice kit will essentially be '3 splice kits in one' (plus some other components). 

Jacketed versus Unjacketed Cable

     When looking at the different Raychem heat shrink kit options for medium voltage cable splicing, it quickly becomes apparent that there are a number of possible cable configurations in the market today...and that knowing which cable configuration you have is an absolute necessity when attempting to select the correct Raychem Medium Voltage Splice kit for your specific job.

     Over the next few days, I will be looking at some of these different 'options'.  These details are incredibly important.  When making a medium voltage splice (or any splice for that matter), the goal is recreate the structure of the manufactured cable in the splice area.  We want the cable configuration to be identical, whether looking at a manufacture portion or at the spliced section.

     Today I'm looking at what is probably the simplest one, jacketed cable and unjacketed cables.  This is most easily demonstrated through photos:
T

This is a jacketed cable; notice multiple cables all surrounded by an outer PE jacket.

This is an unjacketed cable; notice that though the individual cables do have a PE jacket; they are not all housed within a single, outer PE jacket.

     Which ever type of cable you have, you want to make sure you purchase the correct corresponding Raychem splice kit in order to be sure you have all of the components you will need.

Low Voltage Heat Shrink, Medium Voltage Heat Shrink & High Voltage Heat Shrink

     Q:  How does Raychem (Tyco Electronics) define low, medium and high voltage levels?

     A:  As follows:

Low Voltage Heat Shrink is generally rated in the 1000 to 2000 volts range

Medium Voltage Heat Shrink is generally rated in the 5kV to 35kV range

High Voltage Heat Shrink is generally rated up to 230kV!  Yikes.

Within each category there are a number of products.  Please always check with us to be certain you know the exact voltage rating of any Raychem product you purchase.

Wire Sizing Chart

A handy reference (which I might use more than anyone else ever does) giving diameters of different wire sizes.  Diameters are given in millimeters.  I have listed AWG sizes, some Aught sizes and a few MCM sizes.

#14 - 1.63mm

#13 - 1.83mm

#12 - 2.05mm

#11 - 2.30mm

#10 - 2.59mm

#9 -  2.91mm

#8 -  3.26mm

#7 -  3.66mm

#6 -  4.12mm

#5 -  4.62mm

#4 -  5.19mm

#3 -  5.83mm

#2 -  6.54mm

#1 -  7.35mm

1/0 - 8.25mm

2/0 - 9.27mm

3/0 - 10.40mm

4/0 - 11.68mm

250 MCM - 12.7mm

500 MCM - 17.96mm
1000 MCM - 25.4mm

1500 MCM - 31.11mm

2000 MCM - 35.92mm

MCK - Motor Connection Kit

     So, you want to buy a Motor Connection Kit?  The first thing you need to know is whether you will have a 'stub configuration' or an 'in-line configuration':

An in-line motor connection kit configuration (Type L)

 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

A stub motor connection kit configuration (Type V)

     Once you've got that figured out, you need to know the motor feeder size, the bolt length and the connection length.  In addition, it is important to note that stub type (V) motor connection kits are typically sold in standard box quantities of five pieces.

Motor Connection Kit Sizing Information

MCK-1V (stub)

Motor Feeder Size:  #14-#10

Bolt Length (Max): .625"

Connection Length (Max):  2.0"

Heat Shrink Cap Length (inches):  2.5"

MCK-2V (stub)

Motor Feeder Size:  #12-#4

Bolt Length (Max):  .75"

Connection Length (Max):  2.5"

Heat Shrink Cap Length (inches):  3.4"

MCK-3V (stub)

Motor Feeder Size:  #2-4/0

Bolt Length (Max): 1"

Connection Length (Max):  3.5"

Heat Shrink Cap Length (inches):  4.5"

MCK-4V (stub)

Motor Feeder Size:  250-500

Bolt Length (Max):  1.5"

Connection Length (Max):  4.5"

Heat Shrink Cap Length (inches):  6.5"

MCK-1L (in-line)

Motor Feeder Size:  #8-4/0

Bolt Length (Max):  1.25"

Connection Length (Max):  5.0"

Heat Shrink Sleeve Length (inches):  9.0"

MCK-2L (in-line)

Motor Feeder Size:  250-1000

Bolt Length (Max):  1.25"

Connection Length (Max):  8.0"

Heat Shrink Sleeve Length (inches):  12.0"

* Shielded cable must be terminated before installing MCK.

* These products are designed for single hole connectors and include caps and sealant strips for three connections.  Connectors are not included in kits.

WCSM Wire and Connector Sizing

Question:  All I have is a connector size and a wire size; which WCSM shrink tubing do I use?
For sizes in inches (supplied and fully recovered) go here.

WCSM 12/3-1200-S

Minimum Cable Size: #14

Maximum Cable Size: #6

Maximum Connector OD:  .29"

WCSM 16/4-1200-S

Minimum Cable Size:  #8

Maximum Cable Size:  #2

Maximum Connector OD:  .41" 

WCSM 24/6-1200-S

Minimum Cable Size:  #6

Maximum Cable Size:  #4/0

Maximum Connector OD: .69"

WCSM 34/8-1200-S

Minimum Cable Size:  #2

Maximum Cable Size:  500

Maximum Connector OD: 1.06"

WCSM 48/12-1200-S

Minimum Cable Size:  #2/0

Maximum Cable Size:  750

Maximum Connector OD: 1.3"

WCSM 56/16-1200-S

Minimum Cable Size:  250

Maximum Cable Size:  1000

Maximum Connector OD: 1.5"

WCSM 70/20-1200-S

Minimum Cable Size:  500

Maximum Cable Size:  1500

Maximum Connector OD: 1.84"

WCSM 110/30-1200-S

Minimum Cable Size:  800

Maximum Cable Size:  2000

WCSM 130/35-1200-S

Minimum Cable Size:  1500

Maximum Cable Size:  2500

WCSM - Heavy Wall Tubing

   

WCSM Tubing is available in a variety of sizes

    WCSM is one of the most commonly used Raychem (Tyco Electronics) products.  It is a versatile, heavy wall tubing that can be used for anything from jacket repair to splice sealing.  WCSM is rated for use at 1000 volts when in direct contact with the splice (rated to 35 kV for jacket repair).
    In spite of the fact that it looks complicated, the nomenclature for WCSM is actually very easy to interpret.  The first number is the supplied ID of the tubing in millimeters.  The second number is the fully recovered ID of the tubing in millimeters.  The third number is the length of the tubing as supplied (it can be cut to any length fairly easily in the field or in your own shop).  The final "-S" simply indicates that the tubing is internally coated with an adhesive sealant (as opposed to being 'uncoated').

     Below is a listing of the different WCSM sizes (smallest to largest) along with a manual conversion from mm to inches.  In a future post, I will address the WCSM sizes in relation to cable and connector ranges.  For dimensions of cable sizes and connection size; go here.

WCSM 12/3-1200-S (supplied at .47"; shrinks to .118")

WCSM 16/4-1200-S (supplied at .63"; shrinks to .157")

WCSM 24/6-1200-S (supplied at .944"; shrinks to .236")

WCSM 34/8-1200-S (supplied at 1.339"; shrinks to .315")

WCSM 48/12-1200-S (supplied at 1.89"; shrinks to ..472")

WCSM 56/16-1200-S (supplied at 2.204"; shrinks to ..629")

WCSM 70/20-1200-S (supplied at 2.756"; shrinks to ..787")

WCSM 110/30-1200-S (supplied at 4.330"; shrinks to 1.118")

WCSM 130/35-1200-S (supplied at 5.118"; shrinks to 1.377")

     Keep in mind when selecting a WCSM size that you must have 'room' to slide the tube into place.  As an example, the WCSM 12/3 would not work for a substrate that is exactly .47" as there would be no room to slide the tube into place.