Connectors provide both structural support and electrical continuity for overhead lines in
transmission and distribution systems. Thus, they must withstand any mechanical forces
exerted on them via the conductors they connect. When new, it is anticipated that they will
withstand >95% of the rated breaking strength (RBS) of the conductor. Several NEETRAC
Baseline projects have focused on the electrical, and by consequence, the thermal
performance of connectors in a number of applications.
The mechanical performance, unfortunately, has generally not been studied because of the
many issues observed on the electrical side. This report provides the findings of a recent NEETRAC project to examine how
the strength of a span is affected by the number of connectors inserted into the conductor.
Notification for Those Accessing the NEETRAC Report Executive Summary
NEETRAC reports are proprietary and confidential to its members for internal use only except as provided in NEETRAC's Publication Policy. NRECA is making the reports and other NEETRAC information available to NRECA's members through permission by NEETRAC via our membership agreement.
By accessing (downloading/viewing) any NEETRAC report, the reader agrees to abide by the restrictions as to the use and sharing of information contained in said report. The reader acknowledges that the applicable restrictions are stipulated in the NEETRAC Bylaws along with the various Application Procedures as promulgated by the NEETRAC Management Board on a regular basis. These Bylaws and Applicable Procedures are posted on the member-restricted segment of the NEETRAC website. See neetrac.org and contact NEETRAC for more information.
