Thorne & Derrick Appointed 3M Electrical Kitting Partners

PR | Uploaded 18.7.2024 by Chris Dodds - Sales Marketing Manager at Thorne & Derrick

Thorne & Derrick have been appointed as the Approved Medium Voltage Kitting Partner for 3M Electrical – this significantly strengthens our ability to lead the market through the innovation and delivery of cable-customised Joints & Terminations for MV applications.

Our Kitting Partnership facilitates the design and distribution to customers on short lead-times of 11kV, 33kV and 66kV Cable Accessories, utilising Cold Shrink Technology developed by 3M Electrical over 40 years ago.

Cold Shrink Technology is track-record proven to deliver the highest levels of electrical reliability and safety for the jointing, termination, abandonment and repair of Low, Medium & High Voltage Cables – ensuring optimum uptime through resilient power cable systems with a safe flame-free installation and a component design that reduces the scope for installer error to the absolute minimum.

“We are delighted to welcome Thorne & Derrick as a new kitting partner and look forward to continued joint success and growth. Being a kitting partner enables tailored solutions for our end customers, which allows us all to meet demands for specifications and react more quickly to dynamic timeframes” Jenny Swindells | Regional Division Leader, Northern Europe


Customisation, As Standard

As a leading UK Specialist Distributor of MV Cable Accessories, Thorne & Derrick deliver from stock the most extensive range of industry standard Joints & Terminations to connect and energise cables to oil, air or gas insulated switchgear, transformers, motors and overhead lines up to 66kV.

The Renewable Revolution and Digital Economy have accelerated pressure on industry to develop project specific Cable Accessories compatible with diverse and evolving cable specifications – our Kitting Partnership with 3M empowers Thorne & Derrick to design tailored MV Connection solutions to the electrical power industry.

This includes customer specific MV Joints & Terminations to UK DNO, National Grid, TfL and Network Rail engineering requirements.

You can now work with us to overcome challenging supply-chain bottlenecks; we keep pace with your project programme and connection commitments so together we energise on-time, everytime.


Resilient & Reliable HV Power Systems

Thorne & Derrick’s EPC Framework Agreements and our Approved Vendor Listing with major project delivery contractors has led to outstanding growth in the Renewables, BESS, Rail, Data-Centre and Explosive Atmosphere sectors.

T&D & 3M

Jonny Hewitt & Allan Russell

Pictured | Jonny Hewitt (Sales Engineer | Medium & High Voltage Projects) pictured with Allan Russell (3M Trainer) having successfully completed and achieved 3M Authorised Trainer Certification up to 66kV.


MV Kitting CTA

Kitting & Stocking Commitment | Thorne & Derrick have expanded existing stock lines and introduced products into stock across the 3M Electrical Product range from LV to HV. From Scotch Tapes for 600V repair to QTEN for 66kV termination – we hold the deepest and broadest selection of 3M Scotch, Scotchcast and ColdShrink cable accessories in UK stock.

3M Train The Trainer

Rail Electrification Innovation | The next-generation of 25/45/52kV Network Rail PADS ColdShrink Joints with Concentric Neutral, stocking at Thorne & Derrick.


5 Steps 

Thorne & Derrick with 3M Electrical have identified and introduced 5 Steps to the industry to redefine customer-service excellence.

Our shared objective is a “best-in-industry” service provision to customers.

We are Electrifying your Power.

3M 5 Steps

 


Thorne & Derrick are Specialist Distributors to EPC’s & Contractors working on the design, construction and maintenance of UK, European and international projects supplying an extensive range of LV HV Cables, Accessories Jointing, Substation & Electrical Eqpt – this includes Hazardous Area (ATEX & IECEx Certified) Equipment to provide Power, Heating & Lighting to the Potentially Explosive Atmospheres industries.

Based in the UK, we are highly customer responsive and absolutely committed to providing a world-class service.

Since 1985, we have provided expert technical support and express delivery from extensive UK stocks to world-wide destinations.

Did you know 3M has some of the industry's most outstanding performance metrics: Cold Shrink Reliability Record Low Failure Rates*: – 0.067% for Cold Shrink Cable Joints/Splices – 0.022% for Cold Shrink Terminations.*Data based upon U.S. failure data of U.S. manufactured 3M Cold Shrink Medium & High Voltage Cable Accessories between 2009 and 2012.

Did you know 3M has some of the industry’s most outstanding performance metrics? Cold Shrink Reliability Record Low Failure Rates*: – 0.067% for Cold Shrink Cable Joints/Splices – 0.022% for Cold Shrink Terminations. *Data based upon U.S. failure data of U.S. manufactured 3M Cold Shrink MV HV Cable Accessories between 2009 and 2012.

 

Thorne & Derrick

Kitting Partner | 3M Medium Voltage Cable Joints & Terminations

 

3M Electrical Tape

Sheath Repairs for Cables | Electrical Tapes Distributed from Stock 


Tape Repairs for Damaged Cables

Safe and reliable electricity distribution depends upon the integrity of power cables and the monitoring and maintenance of cable condition to ensure service is not disrupted by cable failure – the early warning indication of potential power problems is the condition of the Cable Sheath.

3M Electrical and Scotch brand tapes provide high specification and performance repairs to damaged cable sheaths and jackets for power systems, 600V to 66kV – this can include minor sheath nicks and more substantial deeper damages caused during the transportation, cable pulling or operational service of the cable circuit.

Scotch Electrical tape repairs from 3M provide durable sheath re-instatement to LV MV HV cables located in underground or outdoor locations providing excellent protection against moisture and contaminant penetration into the cable construction and consequently compromising cable circuit integrity and power system uptime.

  • Convenient tape solutions for service vans with reduced inventory, cost and disruption
  • Versatile field repairs from the roll with range-take for diameter cables
  • Ideal for repair of stress cracks and splits caused by exceeding cable bending radius
  • Quick and easy tape repairs requiring no flames, heating or gas torch for safe use in confined spaces and potentially explosive atmospheres with hazardous areas Zone 1/2
  • Flexibility and fast repair with excellent cable sheath adhesion

3M Cable Sheath & Jacket Repair Tape


Temporary & Permanent Repair of Field Damaged

Low & High Voltage Cable Using Electrical Tapes


Methods of Cable Sheath Repair

The different levels of cable damage are demonstrated below:

Methods of Cable Sheath & Jacket Repairs Methods of Cable Sheath & Jacket Repairs Methods of Cable Sheath & Jacket Repairs
Damage Level 1 Damage Level 2 Damage Level 3
Minor damages. Surface damages like scratches and grooves from sharp edges. More substantial damages with cable cores intact. Cuts and breakouts of the cable jacket. A new cable splice is required. Severe damages with damages cable cores. Punctures and deep damages affecting the inner layers of the cable. Further detection of the cable is necessary.

Task – Repair for Minor Damage Cables 

For repairing cable damage like scratches and grooves from sharp edges:

  • Clean the cable surface with a solvent and sandpaper – use 3M™ Cable Preparation Kit CC-3 or Scotch® 1626 Degreasing and Cleaners
  • Half-lap Scotch® Cable Jacket Repair Tape 2234 over the damaged jacket area
  • Overwrap each end with Scotch® Super 33+™ Vinyl Tape. This tape will add radial pressure to ensure optimum adhesion and sealing

Task - Repair for Minor Damage Cables 


Task – Repair for Substantial Damage Cables 

When dealing with more significant damage where a portion of the cable jacket is torn, first check if the inner layers of the cable are undamaged:

  • Remove the torn and damaged edges of the cable jacket
  • Clean the cable surface with a solvent and sandpaper – use 3M™ Cable Preparation kit CC-3 or Scotch® 1626 Degreasing & Cleaning Spray
  • Fill and seal voids with 3M™ Scotchfil™ Electrical Insulation Putty
  • Overwrap the whole repair length with Scotch® Cable Jacket Repair Tape 2234

Task - Repair for Substantial Damage Cables 


3M Cable Sheath Repair Video

Watch this short video on how 3M and Scotch Brand Tapes help reduce or mitigate downtime with reliable cable jacket repair tapes.


3M ELECTRICAL TAPES FOR CABLE JACKET REPAIR

Rubber Mastic tapes, manufactured by 3M, are the main components of cable jacket repair solutions. These flexible tapes are applied smoothly and bond instantly to achieve electrical cable repairs in the field. A mastic adhesive securely adheres to most power cable jacket and sheathing materials without loosening or separating, delivering a reliable seal that will maintain the integrity of the cable jacket in the long term.

3M Scotch 2228 Rubber Mastic Tape | Cable Sheath Repairs

3M SCOTCH 2228 MASTIC TAPE
  • 3M Scotch 2228 Tape is highly conformable and super-stretchy in all weather applications.
  • Tape resists UV rays, abrasion, corrosion, alkalies and acids.
  • Primary insulation for cable joints and splices up to 600V.
  • Max Temperature: 90°C / 194°F emergency overload of 130°C / 266°F.

3M Scotchfil Electrical Putty | Cable Sheath Repairs

 

3M SCOTCHFIL ELECTRICAL PUTTY
  • 3M Scotchfil Electrical Putty is a self-fusing, insulating putty in tape form.
  • Electrical insulation putties can be applied to the deep holes to seal and shape the surface and exclude water ingress.
  • Smooths over irregular shapes and pads sharp edges.
  • Max Temperature: 80°C / 176°F.

 

 

3M SCOTCH SUPER 33+ VINYL ELECTRICAL TAPE3M Scotch 33+ PVC Electrical Tape | Cable Sheath Repairs
  • Premium Vinyl tapes add mechanical protection and radial pressure to the repaired area.
  • 3M Scotch 33+ Tape is highly conformable and super stretchy in all weather applications
  • Resists UV rays, abrasion, corrosion, alkalies and acids.
  • Max Temperature: 105°C 221°F
  • Can be applied in cold environments down to -180C and is rated to operate in temperatures from 105° C to -40°C.

 

 

3M SCOTCH 2234 CABLE REPAIR TAPE3M Scotch 2234 Cable Jacket Electrical Tape | Cable Sheath Repairs
  • 3M Scotch 2234 Tape is designed specifically to repair damages on the cable jackets.
  • The outer layer of this tape is composed of vulcanised CSM rubber to provide outstanding resistance to abrasion, chemicals, tearing, and cut-through.
  • Max Temperature: 105°C / 221°F.

Temporary & Permanent Repair of Field Damaged Low & High Voltage Cable Using Electrical Tapes

T&D & 3M Electrical | Distributors of LV MV HV Cable Accessories

Further Reading

Thorne & Derrick Certificated by 3M for Medium Voltage Training

Cable Management

Cable Safety Equipment | Workplace Safety | UK & Export Sales


The Future of Cable Management

In the engineering landscape, staying ahead of things is crucial, especially when it comes to cable management. Thorne & Derrick together with CableSafe, have operations spanning the Netherlands and the USA, we’re dedicated to pioneering innovative solutions in cable safety, confined space safety, and dropped objects prevention. Let’s delve into the future of cable management, examining emerging trends and exciting innovations shaping the industry.

Efficient cable organisation is essential for optimising workflows and minimising hazards in industrial settings. Traditional methods often involve cumbersome cable trays and racks, but advancements in cable management solutions are simplifying the process. Products like CableSafe Safety Hooks Extreme and Cable Guards provide simple yet effective solutions for keeping cables organised and secure, reducing clutter and potential safety risks.

CableSafe Hooks

CableSafe Hooks


Elevated cable management solutions

Elevated cable management solutions like CableSafe Cable Stands and Cable Bridge further streamline operations by minimising tripping hazards and facilitating easier access for maintenance personnel. These innovations not only improve safety but also contribute to overall efficiency on the job site.

As technology continues to advance, ensuring cable safety remains a top priority. CableSafe is dedicated to developing robust cable protection systems that mitigate risks and prevent accidents. Whether it’s through innovative cable guards or durable safety hooks, our products are designed to withstand the rigors of industrial environments while keeping workers safe.

Looking ahead, the future of cable safety lies in proactive prevention measures and advanced monitoring technologies. By investing in smart solutions that detect potential hazards before they escalate, companies can minimise downtime and maximise productivity while safeguarding their workforce.

Every industry has its own unique challenges when it comes to cable management. From offshore oil rigs to manufacturing facilities, CableSafe understands the importance of tailored solutions. Their customisable products are designed to meet the specific needs of diverse industries, from corrosion-resistant materials for marine applications to fire-retardant coatings for high-risk environments.

As we look to the future, CableSafe remains committed to driving innovation and excellence in cable management. By embracing emerging trends and leveraging cutting-edge technologies, we’re shaping the industry for the better. With our customisable solutions and unwavering dedication to safety, we’re empowering companies to create safer, more efficient workplaces for their employees.


Confined Space Entry Products and Equipment

Thorne & Derrick stock and distribute an extensive range of Confined Space Entry Products and Equipment to mitigate potentially life-threatening dangers such as flammable gases, dangerous chemicals and other hazards – this ensures people are safe at all times and also provides the correct rescue equipment to meet the legislative requirements.

We supply the complete range of Safety Tools & Equipment to enable safe working in sectors such as the construction, renewables, data centres, rail, manufacturing and oil, gas, petrochemical industries – this includes Push-Pull Tools for the safe manoeuvring of suspended loads to prevent pinch-point injury.

Manhole Entry Barrier Multifold Barrier Confined Space Cover Net Manhole Skirt Barrier
Light Duty Confined Space Barrier Confined Space Manhole Quick Barrier Heavy Duty Barrier Confined Space Entry Protection Safety Sign

CABLE SAFETY EQUIPMENT

CableSafe® is part of Westmark Group, a specialised engineering company. Westmark started in 1991 as a manufacturer of CableSafe Safety Hooks, their flagship product which has become a standard in cable safety and cable management in different industries worldwide. CableSafe® specialise in Cable Safety, Cable Management, Confined Space Safety and Dropped Objects Prevention.

T&D CableSafe

T&D and Marechal


Energy Saving

Electrical Connectors

GO GREEN | REQUEST FREE EFFICIENCY REPORT

MARECHAL® Decontactor Technology is up to 5.7 times more efficient than a standard pin and sleeve type hard-wired installation – the Decontactor contributes significantly to Energy Savings with reduced costs and improved electrical safety.


The Decontactor Connector

DECONTACTOR = PLUG + SOCKET + INTEGRAL SWITCH DISCONNECTOR

The MARECHAL® Decontactor is a unique plug and socket assembly with an integral load-break switch – the user can safely and instantly disconnect under full electrical current up to 250Amps using the integral load-break switch. Immediate reconnection is possible under electrical load without requirement to shutdown power supply.

Marechal Decontactor Connector

High Material Performance & Quality 

  • Exceptional connection quality: up to 10,000 cycles
  • Resistant up to 8 times the rating current
  • Shock resistant: up to IK10 with metal casings
  • Permanent absorption and tolerance to repeat overload
  • Resist to temperatures from at least -40 °C to +60 °C
  • Automatically watertight: up to IP69K, 100 bars and 80 °C
  • Isolator switch integrate
  • ATEX & IECEX certifications

DXN SERIES


Energy Saving Electrical Connectors

Technically designed to LIMIT HEATING and compensate THERMAL CYCLE.

Comparative Heating Curve

Heating curve of a 60309-2 socket at a constant 63 A current

Blue square

Heating curve of a DECONTACTOR™ at a constant 63 A current

Purple square Successive heating curves of a DECONTACTOR™ at a particular current cycle of 63 A.

Proven Energy Efficiency

5 Key Benefits To Reduce Energy Consumption

Reduce Energy Consumption


Typical Energy Savings

MARECHAL® Decontactor technology compared to traditional hard-wired systems provides the following benefits:

Typical Savings Using Marechal Contact Technology

Based on laboratory tests comparing the performance of two contact technologies: MARECHAL® sprung contact and traditional pin and sleeve contact. For a normal use in a harsh industrial environment.


REQUEST REPORTFREE ENERGY EFFICIENCY REPORT


CONNECTING Industry
Connecting Data Centres Connecting Rail Connecting Renewables
Connecting Oil & Gas Connecting Utilities Connecting Wind Power

Spike & Cut! Thorne & Derrick Partnership Agreement with Sunbelt Rentals

uploaded by Chris Dodds | Sales & Marketing Manager with Thorne & Derrick


Thorne & Derrick, the Specialist Distributor of LV HV Cable Accessories, Tooling & Substation Electrical Equipment, are delighted to be working alongside Sunbelt Rentals UK, the global leader in the hire of Electrical Test Equipment.

Together, we are launching the PENTA PICOUP UltraSafe range of Spiking Tools with Integrated Cable Cutters to improve industry safety and simplicity for contractors working on underground or subsea cable repair, jointing and fault restoration work, 600v to 132kV.

The unique PICOUP provides a combined “Spike & Cut” capability in a single-tool operation with a choice of 2 models; PICOUP 65 (LV up to 65mm) or PICOUP 400 (LV HV up to 140mm) diameter, including armoured (SWA) cables.

Safely spike then cleanly cut – one tool does it all.


Collaborating for Safety 

“Our PICOUP collaboration is based upon excellence in customer service and delivering cable safety improvements through tooling innovation. Thorne & Derrick provide a competitive purchase option with availability from stock, while Sunbelt Rentals have invested and introduced PICOUP into their hire fleet. Whether to buy or to hire, our collaboration guarantees immediate availability,” comments Chris Dodds from Thorne & Derrick.

“The Remote Controlled Hydraulic Spiking & Cutting Tool allows the user to verify the cable for absence of voltage and once proven Dead to then cut it in a one-tool procedure. I am genuinely excited about our collaboration – it improves safety, efficiency and further consolidates Thorne & Derrick as the global market-leading stockist of LV HV Jointing, Installation & Cable Preparation Tooling,” adds Chris.

“Penta ESP, Thorne & Derrick and Sunbelt Rentals are a unique collaboration in the industry, and one we are proud to be part of. Having a joint Sales-Hire option with both companies allows any potential customer to have fast access to either the Rental Fleet or to a Stocked Item ready within hours of interest. This nationwide service provides a cutting-edge product within easy reach. We are available to provide a Nationwide Demonstration of any product from the PICOUP range – all of our UK team will be happy to support you with further information should it be required,” comments Bill Earlie (Commercial Manager Penta UK).

“The PICOUP range of Ultra-Safe Cable Spiker and Cutting Tools are an absolute game changer with regards to SAFETY and OPERATIONAL CONSOLIDATION, in that they remove the requirement for live ammunition and incorporate both the spiking and the cutting of the cable, whether that be Low, Medium or High Voltage, into one function, thus saving time and costs.

Working together with Thorne and Derrick, a fellow North East of England company coupled with the expertise of Penta, means we are able to collaborate fully for both the hire or purchase of these fantastic tools and make a real difference to people’s lives who work in the cable industry,” adds Patrick Winter (National Business Development Manager at Sunbelt Rentals Limited).


  • HYDRAULIC – safe operation, no resort to firing hazardous class, explosive cartridges
  • REMOTE – safe working distance with no physical connection between the user and tool
  • POWERFUL – hardened steel blades spike and cut up to 140mm diameter cables

PICOUP 400 | Hydraulic & Remote | Spike & Cut Armoured Cables up to 140mm Diameter LV HV

To Site Overnight | 1 Tool = 2 Functions | Hire or Sale Option


Spike & Cut! Thorne & Derrick Partnership Agreement with Sunbelt Rentals Left to Right | Pictured at Sunbelt Rentals UK Hire & Service Centre in Stokesley, UK; Richard Derrick (MD Thorne & Derrick), Bill Earlie (Commercial Manager UK PENTA), Patrick Winter (National Business Development Manager Sunbelt Rentals UK) and Chris Dodds (Sales & Marketing Manager Thorne & Derrick).


Spiking Tool

Rugged & Robust | The IP67 waterproof heavy-duty tool is suitable for outdoor trench cable installations. Pictured : Safely cable spiking and cleanly cutting a 4 core 120sqmm XLPE/SWA BS5467 cable.

Image Credit : John Hayes (Director at JH Jointing & Cabling Contractors Ltd).


Sunbelt Rentals | Protection Relay Testing, Circuit Breaker Testing, Power Quality Monitoring, Cable Fault Location & Earth Testing

The UK’s Largest Rental Equipment Provider | Protection Relay Testing, Circuit Breaker Testing, Power Quality Monitoring, Cable Fault Location & Earth Testing.

T | 01642 718 900

E | [email protected]


THORNE & DERRICK | LV MV HV | Cable Jointing, Termination, Substation & Electrical Eqpt Distributors 600V to 66kV

 

Blog

How can you install a Nexans Multi Joint System? Cable Jointing Guide

Published 06 Mar 2026

How can you install a Nexans Multi Joint System? Cable Jointing Guide

Nexans 240–300mm² Multi-Joint – Medium Voltage Cable Joint Installation Medium voltage cable jointing requires reliability, consistency and safe installation practices. The Nexans 240–300mm² Multi-Joint is designed to simplify medium voltage jointing while maintaining high electrical performance for demanding power...

Read More

Associated manufacturers
Share this page
Share this page
X

Get a quote

Complete the form below to make an enquiry about products.

  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.
  • Please enter your full name.
  • Please enter your contact telephone number.
  • Please enter your e-mail address.
  • Please select if you are enquiring about products for the UK or for export.