Jointers Blogs
Megger TDR1000/3P Handheld TDR For Power Cable Fault Location
May 4th, 2021
Electrical Test Equipment LV MV HV
Handheld TDR for Fault Finding on Cables
Images Courtesy of: Neil Trotter – HV & LV Cable Jointer at Northern Power Grid
Pictured: Megger TDR1000/3P Cable Fault Location Equipment showing an LV underground mains cable fault. Fault location from substation at 104 metres. The images show an open circuit and then an issue 13 metres from point of electricity supply – this cable fault was caused by incorrect cable laying.
The third and fourth images show the cable outersheath has been dented by dolomite during the backfilling of the cable trench.
Megger TDR1000/3P is a compact, hand held time domain reflectometer (TDR) for locating faults on metallic cables – it has a minimum resolution of 0.1 m and a 5 km maximum range depending on velocity factor selected and cable type. The Megger range of Electrical Cable Testing & Fault Location Products are available to purchase via a network of UK Channel Partners or from established hire fleets at competitive daily/weekly hire rates, such as Sunbelt Rentals.

Handheld TDR For Troubleshooting and Locating Faults On Metallic Cables

Megger TDR1000/3P Single Channel Cable Fault Locator

Megger TDR1000/3P
handheld TDR for Power Applications
With built-in blocking filters and fused test leads, the Megger TDR1000/3P Time Domain Reflectometer is a compact, hand held time domain reflectometer for locating faults on metallic cables. It has a minimum resolution of 0.1 m/0.3 ft and a 5 km/15 kft maximum range depending on the velocity factor selected and the cable type.
Four output impedances are available (25, 50, 75, and 100 Ω) and a velocity factor between 0.2 and 0.99 will meet any cable test requirements.
Megger TDR1000 has a simple auto selection option which together with a 4 way control switch offers an intuitive operation for the user.
- Adjustable display contrast
- Resolution to 0.1 m
- For use on Telecom TNV-3 circuit, or 150 V CAT IV power circuits
- Power blocking filter not required
- Environmental protection to IP54
- Auto selected output impedance (between 25, 50, 75 and 100 Ω)
- 2 ns pulse for near end fault location
- AUTO option selecting gain and pulse for each range
- Display distance in metres or feet
- Uses five AA (LR6) primary cells

Megger TDR1000/3P Handheld TDR
Technical Specification of Megger TDR1000/3P
| Description | Time Domain Reflectometer |
| Part Number | 1001-789 |
| Included Accessories | Hard case, user guide CD, retractable sheath fused test lead (1 pair) |
| Optional Accessories | Miniature clip test lead set (1 pair), red and black probes and clips for use with all Megger TDR fused test leads, split conductor fused test lead set (1 pair) |
| Range | 10 m, 25 m, 100 m, 250 m, 1000 m, 2500 m, 5000 m (30 ft, 75 ft, 300 ft, 750 ft, 3000 ft, 7500 ft, 15000 ft) |
| Accuracy | ±1% of range ± pixel at 0.67 VF [Note- The measurement accuracy is for the indicated cursor position only and is conditional on the velocity factor being correct.] |
| Resolution | 1% of range |
| Input Protection | This instrument complies with IEC61010-1 for connection to live systems up to 150 V CAT IV when used with the supplied fused test lead set. |
| Output Pulse | 5 volts peak to peak into open circuit |
| Gain | Set for each range with three user selectable steps (in Manual operating mode) |
| Velocity Factor | Variable from 0.2 to 0.99 in steps of 0.01 |
| TX Null | Automatic |
| Power Down | Automatic after 5 minutes with no key press |
| Backlight | Stays on for 1 minute with no key press |
| Battery | Five LR6 (AA) type batteries, Manganese alkali or nickel metal-hydride cells |
| Battery Life | Up to 14 hours (Typical) |
| Dimensions | 230 x 115 x 48 mm ( 9.0 x 4.5 x 2.0 inches) |
| Weight | 0.6 kg (1.32 lbs) |
| Case | ABS |
| Connectors | Two 4 mm-safety terminals |
| Test Lead | (19 mm spaced TDR1000/3P): 1 pair 1.5 m retractable sheath, fitted with 500 mA FF HBC 1 kV 50 kA fuse |
| Display | 256 x 128 pixel Graphics LCD |
| Operating Temperature Range & Humidity | -15 °C to +50 °C (5 °F to 122 °F) |
| Storage Temperature Range & Humidity | -20 °C to 70 °C (-4 °F to 158 °F) |
| Safety | When using the supplied fused test lead set this instrument complies withIEC61010-1 for connection to live systems with less than 300 V between the terminals and up to 150 V CAT IV to earth |
| EMC | Complies with Electromagnetic Compatibility Specifications (Light industrial) BS EN 61326-1, with a minimum performance of ‘B’ for all immunity tests |

Jointers blog
Subscribe now to our POWER NEWSLETTER– a monthly email circulation packed with news, projects, videos, technical tips, training information, promotions, webinars, career opportunities and white papers.
Includes access to our popular JOINTERS BLOG with contributions from utility professionals, linesmen and cable jointers working on MV HV EHV cables and overhead lines typically at 11kV, 33kV, 66kV and up to 132kV.
Copper Earthing Tapes for Auxiliary Transformer & Neutral Earthing Resistor (NER)
May 4th, 2021Images courtesy of: Harvey Ross – Mechanical Fitter at IDEC Technical Services
Pictured: Copper Earthing Tapes for Auxiliary Transformer & Neutral Earthing Resistor (NER). The rebar in the concrete has been connected outside of the bund wall and the transformer and NER are connected straight to the earth mat.
After these images were taken Harvey installed security pins every 300mm to prevent theft. He also states that the end client had not requested Guardian capping to be installed at this site however all connections were tinned with Frylux and then greased.
It is worth noting that cable duct sealing is often something which gets missed or overlooked on this kind of project. Builders foam is often incorrectly used to fill the ducts when it is non-compliant, breaks down under rain water, attracts vermin and can be extremely difficult to remove without causing damage to the cables themselves. A better option would be to use a DSEAR compliant, leak resistant, age tested and easy to maintain cable duct sealing system such as Nofirno from CSD Sealing Systems.



THORNE & DERRICK are national distributors of LV, MV & HV Cable Installation, Jointing, Duct Sealing, Earthing & Electrical Equipment – we service UK and global businesses involved in cable installations, substation, overhead line and the installation of medium/high voltage cable joints and terminations at LV, 11kV, 33kV and HV.
Contact us for 3M Electrical, ABB, Alroc, AN Wallis, CATU Electrical, Cembre, Centriforce, CMP, CSD, Elastimold, Ellis Patents, Emtelle, Euromold, Filoform , Furse, Lucy Electric & Zodion, Nexans, Pfisterer, Polypipe, Prysmian, Roxtec, Sicame, WT Henley.
Angle-DC Project | Cold Shrink Terminations Connecting 33kV Power Cable In DC Inverter Room
May 4th, 2021Cold Shrink terminations
Connecting 33kV Power Cable In DC Inverter Room
-
Special thanks to Lee Bavington (Director) at Power Installations Ltd
for allowing Thorne & Derrick to share the following images
Power Installations Ltd have the capability and Authorisation to cover the specification outlined by SP Energy Networks (SPEN) technical requirements for the Jointing & Termination of Medium Voltage Power Cables up to 33kV.
The following sequence of site photographs show the SPEN Angle DC project approaching completion with the installation of Cold Shrink terminations to the DC inverter room.
Below images show standard SPEN specification medium voltage cable termination utilising Cold Shrink technology invented by 3M Electrical over 50 years ago.
Contact Power Installations Ltd
- 07851179000 (Mobile)
Project Details
Angle-DC is a smart and flexible method for reinforcing distribution networks. The project is creating a controllable bidirectional Direct Current (DC) link between two sections of our network, Isle of Anglesey and North Wales. Angle-DC is converting existing 33kV Alternating Current (AC) assets to DC. The DC link will enable improved power flow and voltage control. Converting AC assets to DC operation will enhance the thermal capability of the circuit in a timely manner. The Anglesey example, while complicated, is representative of many of the challenges all DNOs are facing in the transition to a low carbon economy. This pilot scheme will incorporate a novel technology as part of the toolbox of solutions for network reinforcement and renewable connections. The solution could be deployed to interconnect two distribution networks which would otherwise be operated split due to fault level and thermal limits. View the project Fact-Card here.

DC Inverter Room

Cable Terminations 33kV
The Jointers from Power Installations Ltd had to sleeve the copper screen wires of the 33kV power cable below the line of the surge arrestors that the invertor cradles were mounted on due to the fault potential from the invertors as they were not earthed as part of the DC system.

New SPEN Angle DC Project

Technical Resources
NIC Project Medium Voltage Direct Current Link Technical Specification | This Specification details SP Energy Networks (SPEN) requirements for a bidirectional Medium Voltage Direct Current (MVDC) Link for the ‘Angle-DC’ project, being carried out in conjunction with Ofgem’s Network Innovation Competition (NIC).
NIC Project Holistic Circuit Condition Monitoring Specification | This Specification details SP Energy Networks (SPEN) requirements for network monitoring equipment for the ‘Angle-DC’ project being carried out in conjunction with Ofgem’s Network Innovation Competition (NIC).

Thorne & Derrick | 3M Electrical Distributors & Stockists Since 1985 | Medium Voltage Joints & Termination from stock up to 66kV
Thorne & Derrick provide competitive prices and fast delivery from stock for the complete range of 3M Scotchcast and Cold Shrink cable joints, terminations, resins and Scotch electrical tapes – we stock high voltage cable joints and terminations manufactured from 3M using Cold Shrink for 11kV 33kV and 66kV cables.

Watch Video & Read Blog about the benefits of Cold Shrink technology from 3M Electrical

LV, MV & HV Jointing, Earthing, Substation & Electrical Eqpt
Thorne & Derrick International are specialist distributors of LV, MV & HV Cable Installation, Jointing, Duct Sealing, Substation & Electrical Equipment – servicing UK and global businesses involved in cable installations, cable jointing, substation, overhead line and electrical construction at LV, 11kV, 33kV and EHV.
THORNE & DERRICK Product Categories: Duct Seals | Cable Cleats | Cable Glands | Electrical Safety | Arc Flash Protection | Cable Jointing Tools | Cable Pulling | Earthing | Feeder Pillars | Cable Joints LV | Joints & Terminations MV HV

11kV Sweated Ferrule With Crepe Paper Insulation & Lead Sleeve
April 28th, 2021Image Courtesy of: Dean Wilson (Owner Director at D.C. Jointing Ltd).
D.C. Jointing Ltd are Specialist Electrical Cable Jointers – a team of 15 skilled staff in all aspects of offshore and onshore cable jointing up to 132kV.
D.C. Jointing Ltd secured a prestigious 3 year Medium & High Voltage Cabling 11kV-66kV contract with WPD, a UK DNO, for the installation of 3M Cold Shrink Joints and Terminations – the awarded contract exemplifies the impressive reputation for quality workmanship provided by DCJ to UK DNO’s, IDNO’s and private networks.
The HV cable jointing success for D.C. Jointing demonstrates their versatile competency at jointing modern technology polymeric cables while also retaining “old-school” 11kV jointing expertise as evidenced in the featured photograph.
Location : Wimbledon, London UK
Date : 2003

11kV Sweated Ferrule With Crepe Paper Insulation & Lead Sleeve
Further Reading
- Pfisterer Connex Size 4 Terminations Connecting 66kV Gas Cable
- Transition Joint EHV – Oil To XLPE NKT Cable Joint
- Pfisterer Inner Cone Plugs Size 5s Connecting & Terminating 132kV EHV Cable

Jointers blog
Subscribe now to our POWER NEWSLETTER– a monthly email circulation packed with news, projects, videos, technical tips, training information, promotions, webinars, career opportunities and white papers.
Includes access to our popular JOINTERS BLOG with contributions from utility professionals, linesmen and cable jointers working on MV HV EHV cables and overhead lines typically at 11kV, 33kV, 66kV and up to 132kV.
Coning Time – 110kV Pfisterer Ixosil ESS123 Outdoor EHV Cable Termination + Video
April 28th, 2021Richie Rice, is a master craftsman and leading Pfisterer EHV Jointer with an incredible track record, reputation and skill-set.
“I have a wealth of experience in the EHV Extra High Voltage Cable Jointing Sector and have worked on XLPE, HVDC Light XLPE, Oil/Gas Filled Cable Systems from Jointing & Terminating to VLF/ Sheath Testing. I am certified from some of Europe’s Leading Manufacturers of GIS/ODSE Cable Terminations & Straight / Sectionalised / Cross Bonded Cable Joints up to 275kV,” comments Richie.

Thorne & Derrick are Main Distributors & Stockists for the Pfisterer range of Medium Voltage Power Products including Connex Plugs, Cable Jointing Tools, Sicon Connectors, Surge Arresters and Electrical Safety Equipment.
Image Courtesy : Richie Rice
Rather than “glassing” the semi-con screen the cable jointer used an Alroc Chamfering tool and then sanded to achieve the perfect transition. The red tape locates the bench mark for the resting position of the cone. Pfisterer Sicon type shearbolt top connectors are incorporated into top plate.
Pictured : Pfisterer Sicon Cable Lug

Pictured : Pfisterer Ixosil Cable Termination
- Richie Rice – EHV Jointer, Project Portfolio
1. Bruckanna Windfarm (Templetuohy Co Tipperary)
Cable Jointing/Terminating & Testing on 20kV Collector System for 14no Siemens 3MW WTGs
2. Killhill Windfarm (Cashel Co Tipperary)
Cable Jointing/Terminating & VLF Testing on 33kV Collector System for 16no Enercon 2.3MW WECs
3. Mountlucas Windfarm (Daingean Co Offally)
Cable Jointing /Terminating & Testing on 20kV Collector System on 84MW Windfarm 28no Siemens 3MW WTGs
4. Monanicha Windfarm (Roscrea Co Tipperary)
Cable Jointing/Terminating & VLF Testing on 20kV Collector System on 36MW Windfarm 15no Nordex 2.4MW WTGs
5. West of Duddon Sands 155kV Export Circuits (NKT Denmark)
Omega Jointing & GIS Terminations for 108 WTG Project
6. London Array Offshore Windfarm (Tyco)
Cable Terminating & Testing on 33kV Collector Circuits on Worlds Largest Windfarm
Pfisterer Ixosil ESS Cable Termination

Jointers blog
Subscribe now to our POWER NEWSLETTER– a monthly email circulation packed with news, projects, videos, technical tips, training information, promotions, webinars, career opportunities and white papers.
Includes access to our popular JOINTERS BLOG with contributions from utility professionals, linesmen and cable jointers working on MV HV EHV cables and overhead lines typically at 11kV, 33kV, 66kV and up to 132kV.

