Blog

Battery Storage | Portable & Fixed Gas Detection Monitors from Crowcon

Battery Storage

Portable & Fixed Gas Detection Monitors from Crowcon

Introduction

The Paris Agreement on climate change holds nations accountable for reducing their greenhouse emissions and reliance on fossil fuels, thus driving them to invest and use renewable energies, such as solar and wind.

However, the sun doesn’t always shine and it’s not always windy – or it might be very sunny or windy, leading to over-supply of the grid. To ensure that renewables are used for maximum benefit, any excess energy they produce (i.e., that isn’t needed for the grid at that time) is stored in local storage facilities, which take the form of large batteries.

These release energy later – when the grid requires more power, or when there is less sun or wind, such as overcast nights or calmer, duller days. However, these batteries can only release energy for a few (between 1 and 12) hours, so their use is limited to short-term, energy-on-demand requirements.

Batteries are effective at reducing power outages since they can also store excess traditional grid energy. The energy stored within batteries can be released whenever a large volume of power is needed, such as during a power failure at a data centre to prevent data being lost, or as a back-up power supply to a hospital or military application to ensure the continuity of vital services. Large scale batteries can also be used to plug short-term gaps in demand from the grid.

These battery compositions can also be used in smaller sizes to power electric cars and may be further scaled down to power commercial products, such as phones, tablets, laptops, speakers and – of course – personal gas detectors.

---

Applications

Battery Storage	Transportation	Welding

 

Battery technologies can be segregated into four main categories:

Chemical – e.g. ammonia, hydrogen, methanol and synthetic fuel

Electrochemical – lead acid, lithium ion, Na-Cd, Na-ion

Electrical – supercapacitors, superconductive magnetic storage

Mechanical – compressed air, pumped hydro, gravity

---

Portable Gas Detectors

For Battery & other Power storage

The range of portable gas detectors and portable monitors for personal and temporary gas monitoring from Crowcon, consists of a wide range of single and multi gas products.

This range of portable gas detectors are used to protect staff and personnel in many industries (including battery storage) around the world and are specified to ensure that each product is fit for purpose.

	The Gasman personal monitor manufactured by Crowcon is a compact and fully ruggedised single gas detector for the toughest of industrial environments – the gas detector is compact and lightweight design for industrial gas detection in battery storage, oil and gas, chemical plants (with exotic gases), steel works (special CO sensor), hospitality (CO2), renewable energy (hydrogen) and waste and water works. More about Crowcon Gasman
Gas-Pro portable gas detector is designed and manufactured by Crowcon for confined space entry monitoring and can detect up to 5 gases. The Crowcon Gas-Pro offers a compact and rugged solution for works and fleet managers entering confined spaces. More about Crowcon Gas-Pro
	Crowcon T4x is a new and improved portable multi gas monitor you can take almost anywhere. Now with added industry leading sensor technologies to improve worker safety and cost you less over time. Exclusively with long-life O2 and MPS™ sensor technologies.
The Crowcon Tetra 3 portable gas detector is a compact, robust and simple to use multigas monitor. The Crowcon Tetra 3 mainly detects the common four gases (carbon monoxide, methane, oxygen and hydrogen sulphide), but also an expanded range: ammonia, ozone, sulphur dioxide, H2 filtered CO (for steel plants) and IR carbon dioxide (for safe area use only) – this portable gas detector is specified in harsh environmental conditions. More about Crowcon Tetra 3
	The T4 is a portable gas detector manufactured by Crowcon which provides a personal gas detection solution against four of the most common gas hazards – carbon monoxide, hydrogen sulphide, flammable gases and oxygen depletion. The T4 also now has improved detection of pentane, hexane and other long chain hydrocarbon. This portable gas detector offers compliance, robustness and a low total cost of ownership. More about Crowcon T4

Portable gas detectors are typically smaller, handheld devices that provide gas detection in smaller locations and are often used in confined spaces or working areas – mobile, transferable and transportable. Crowcon Gas-Pro portable gas detector is designed for confined space entry monitoring and can detect up to 5 gases. The Crowcon Gas-Pro offers a compact and rugged solution for works and fleet managers entering confined spaces.

---

fixed Gas Detectors

For Battery & other Power storage

Fixed gas detectors manufactured by Crowcon have been proven in many harsh environments around the world and are used in industries such as offshore, oil and gas, petrochemical as well as steel mills and chemical plants.

The range of fixed gas detectors from Crowcon are suitable for detecting single and multi gases and can be configured to suit specific requirements – including hazardous area workplaces according to ATEX and IECEx Certification.

Crowcon Xgard is a versatile range of fixed gas detectors which meet gas detection specifications for a wide range of applications and industries worldwide. The Crowcon Xgard can be found in research facilities, water treatment, power, oil and gas and manufacturing facilities. More about Crowcon Xgard
	Xgard Bright is a versatile platform offering flammable and toxic gas detection and oxygen monitoring, while providing ease of operation and reduced installation costs. The Xgard Bright is now available with MPS (Molecular Property Spectometer™) technology.
The Crowcon XgardIQ is an intelligent and versatile fixed gas detector for the detection of seven different gases dependent upon product setup. Gases include CO, H2S, H2, HF, LPG, CH4 and O2. There is a non-intrusive calibration where functions are performed via the display and keypad, without the need for a hot-work permit or any special tools. More about Crowcon XgardIQ

Crowcon gas detectors, both fixed and portable, provide life saving alerts and notice of the presence of potentially fatal gases in working areas. Typically, a fixed gas detector is used as a permanent gas monitoring solution installed in a specific location such as a process area of a control or a plant room.

---

Gas Hazards in Batteries and Other Power Storage Sector

Dangers

• Typical processes and associated gas detection issues

Li-ion battery fires

• A major concern arises when static electricity or a faulty charger has destroyed the battery’s protection circuit. Such damage can permanently fuse the solid-state switches into the ON position, without the user knowing. A battery with a faulty protection circuit may function normally, but it does not provide protection from short circuit
• At this point, a gas detection system can establish if there is a fault and may be used in a feedback loop to shut off power, seal the space and release an inert gas (such as nitrogen) into the area to prevent any fire or explosion

Leakage of toxic gases prior to thermal runaway

• Thermal runaway of lithium-metal and lithium-ion cells has caused numerous fires. Studies have found the fires to be fuelled by the flammable gases that are vented from the batteries during thermal runaway
• The electrolyte in a lithium-ion battery is flammable and generally contains lithium hexafluorophosphate (LiPF6) or other Li-salts containing fluorine. In the event of overheating, the electrolyte will evaporate and eventually be vented out from the battery cells. Researchers have found that commercial lithium-ion batteries can emit considerable amounts of hydrogen fluoride (HF) during a fire, and that emission rates vary for different types of battery and state of-charge (SOC) levels. Hydrogen fluoride can penetrate skin to affect deep skin tissue and even bone and blood. Even with minimal exposure, pain and symptoms may not present for several hours, by which time damage is extreme

Hydrogen and explosion risk

• With hydrogen fuel cells gaining popularity as alternatives to fossil fuel, it is important to be aware of the dangers of hydrogen. Like all fuels, hydrogen is highly flammable and if it leaks there is real risk of fire
• Traditional lead acid batteries produce hydrogen when they are being charged. These batteries are normally charged together, sometimes in the same room or area, which can generate an explosion risk, especially if the room is not properly ventilated
• Most hydrogen applications cannot use odorants for safety, as hydrogen disperses faster than odorants do. There are applicable safety standards for hydrogen fuelling stations, whereby appropriate protective gear is required for all workers. This includes personal detectors, capable of detecting ppm level hydrogen as well as %LEL level. The default alarm levels are set at 20% and 40% LEL which is 4% volume, but some applications may wish to have a custom PPM range and alarm levels to pick up hydrogen accumulations.

Panels | Plugs | Isolators | Enclosures | Lighting | Control Stations | Motor Starters | Heat Trace | Gas Detection | Flame Detection | Process Instrumentation | Process Heating | Fans | Security Locking & Access Control 

---

 

Switchgear Control Using Trapped Key Interlocking | Castell

• With the kind permission from Castell to repost
  Link to original article on HazardEx here

Switchgear Systems

In this article, Castell discusses how trapped key interlocking is implemented within switchgear control whilst maintaining system integrity.

Factors such as aging infrastructure, technological advancements, lack of investment, demands for cleaner and reliable ever-present energy, have significantly altered the scenery of the energy sector with switchgear systems becoming increasingly complex.

Switchgear systems can utilise or involve several incomers, earthing systems, making the integration of HV (High Voltage), MV (Medium Voltage), LV (Low Voltage) or switching incomers and common supply busbars potentially complicated. This not only increases the potential level of complexity but also the need for robust and reliable safety systems to ensure personnel safety, electrical equipment protection and its correct, safe mode of operation at all time.

The safe and effective operation of switchgear can be achieved through a sequential release system which sets out a process that must be followed removing the need for reliance on work instructions alone.

The system designer should consider the operational processes in conjunction with the safe state of equipment. A challenge with switchgear if one or more supplies shuts down due to an overload or power failure or for planned maintenance purposes is that the remaining supplies will have to carry the load. Therefore, the sequence of operation must be controlled in such a way to ensure that power is maintained, the shutting down of the remaining supplies due to overload is avoided and the collapse of the entire system is prevented.

Trapped key interlocking constitutes an effective way to control the sequential operation of switchgear systems. A trapped key interlocking system can ensure a process is followed and cannot be circumvented. The transfer of a key ensures that wherever personnel find themselves, in either starting or shutting down operations, they can be assured that they are safe through the control of switchgear isolation.

Management of complex switchgear systems can be controlled through a blanking system. The blanking system means that some of the symbols on the busbar locks have a part coded lock which denotes it can be isolated by more than one of the keys forming the switchgear system.

For instance, if we part coded a lock to A ‘Blank’ we can use any 2-character symbol keys with a prefix of ‘A’ to operate the lock (see below for more examples). The system’s integrity is maintained by the design of the nomenclature chosen for the incomer and busbars.

This means  the open and closing operation of the switchgear can be controlled with less locks and keys. Blanking systems, although not suitable for every switchgear application, offer some significant advantages. More specifically, they remove the need for excess keys and  additional key exchange boxes allowing for a simpler interlocking system. Implemented correctly, they can also provide cost and time saving benefits.

Applications

Applications for incomer and busbar interlocking or incomer, generator and busbar interlocking are used in any environment where there is a demand for  reliable energy sources such as data centres or building management services like factories, hospitals, airports, rail and stadiums.

Example 1: Incomer and Busbar Interlocking

This system requires five locks and three keys. In the normal operation the keys are trapped in the incomers in the closed position and both bus couplers are open.

The symbol sequence will allow appropriate incomers to be open allowing the key to be released, transferred and inserted and trapped to the associated bus coupler allowing it to be closed. The symbols used here are AA, AB and BB for the Incomers and A_ (A BLANK) and _B (BLANK B) for the bus couplers.

Example 2: Incomer and Busbar Interlocking

This system will require four locks and two keys. The keys are trapped in incomer 1 and 2 with the switches in the closed position.

Both the bus coupler and incomer 3 open.

The symbol sequence will only allow incomer 3 or the bus coupler to be closed after the appropriate key has been released, transferred and inserted into the bus coupler or incomer three lock.

The system ensures that only two incomers are supplying at any time.

The symbols used here are AA and AB for the incomers and A_ (A BLANK) for the bus coupler.

Example 3: Incomer, Generator and Busbar Interlocking

The normal operation is the two incomers are closed with bus coupler and generator are both open. The symbol arrangement using key symbols AA, AB, A_ (A Blank) on locks with just keys AA AB will ensure safe switching operation.

It will not be possible to have incomer 2 and generator closed at the same time to avoid paralleling.

The symbols used here are AA and AB for the incomers and A_ (A BLANK) for the bus coupler.

Designing an interlocking system

The design of an interlocking system is a process that must be carefully undertaken. A good interlocking scheme requires all risks and operational procedures are considered in advance ensuring integrity. This can proactively address how the system will respond in both operational and failure modes along with routine maintenance.

An interlocking system will set out the process and steps that must be followed to ensure personnel cannot access potentially dangerous areas. When maintenance activities are being performed, trapped key interlocking systems can ensure that the switchgear system is always put in a safe state. Trapped key also ensures that the system operates efficiently and there is no chance of, for example, switching two incoming feeds on to a common busbar significantly reducing risks (such as fire, arc flash) as well as the possibility of equipment damage.

Conclusion

Complicated switchgear systems need to have a robust management system to protect personal and machinery. Designed correctly, an interlocking scheme can contribute to eliminating human error on site while permitting safe access to electrical equipment. Integration of older equipment with new switchgear can be a challenge, trapped key interlocking allows for the safe integrating with OEM switchgear, ensuring safe site operations and negating the need for complicated controls.

Castell have been delivering safety solutions for switchgear since 1922. Working closely with original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) has enabled Castell to produce interlocks designed specifically for use on the leading manufacturers own breakers, isolators, disconnectors and earth mechanisms. Castell offer a range of isolation products for switchgear applications.

The FS lock range can perform in the harshest environments using figure symbols as the unique identifiers enables defining a unique blanking system which allows for easier use of switchgear within the integrity of the trapped key system. FS locks can be incorporated into all Castell product for isolation equipment. Where isolation requires an un–masterable solution on switchgear, Castell Q range offers the ability to uniquely code locks to site requirements and as with the FS range, the Q range of locks can be used on all Castell isolation products.

To discuss any switchgear application requirements please contact our team of technical experts: [email protected] or visit our website: https://www.castell.com/

HazardEx supports hazardous area and process industry professionals and are the leading technical authority on explosive atmospheres – protecting people and plant through a series of Exhibitions, Conferences, Workshops, Seminars and Webinars across the globe.

HazardEx is where industry leaders meet to discuss and engage to ensure workplace and worker safety in potentially explosive atmospheres.

T&D are Specialist Distributors of LV MV HV Cable Installation, Jointing, Substation & Electrical Equipment – we supply companies in the onshore and offshore wind, solar, rail, oil/gas, data centre, battery storage and utility sectors with products to enable the energisation, operation and maintenance of underground cables and overhead lines.

Products | Surge Counters | Sealing Cable Ducts | Cleats, Clamps & Hangers | LV MV HV Electrical Safety | Arc Flash Clothing & PPE | Jointing, Termination & Stripping Tools | Cable Pulling & Laying | Earthing– Tapes | Rods | Bars | Feeder Pillars | Joints LV – Cold Shrink | Resin | Heat Shrink | Joints Terminations Connectors MV HV | Tools – Cutting | Crimping

HV Joints Terminations Connectors | 11kV/33kV up to 66kV Ex Stock

Insulation Piercing Connectors LV for Low Voltage Live Working & Cable Jointing

Thorne & Derrick | Approved Pfisterer Supplier | UK & Export Sales

Insulation piercing connectors LV

Safe & Easy Live Line Working at Low Voltage Networks & Cables

Live line working is increasingly essential in low voltage networks. Bolted connectors used for this purpose should be easy to install and ensure the best possible occupational safety. The LV piercing connector family from PFISTERER has been developed to meet today’s practical requirements. Durable contacts come as standard, and have been a PFISTERER core competence for nearly 100 years.

Conductor does not have to be stripped

Insulation piercing connectors connect and make electrical contact with conductor ends, whatever the conductor cross-section, type and insulation. Because they pierce the insulation during installation, preparatory work on the conductor, such as stripping or brushing the contact area, is eliminated when live working.

The shear bolts on insulation piercing connectors LV are based on patented SICON technology. The electrical connector bolts are equipped with a piercing system that reliably penetrates the conductor insulation during installation by the cable jointer. A rotatable disc at the base of the bolt prevents damage to individual strands and ensures the correct contact force for all conductor materials.

New installations or repairs LV piercing connectors easily and safely connect all low voltage cables – even under voltage

Good occupational safety

The insulating body and plastic cover caps provide IP2X protection against finger contact in accordance with EN 60529. On type 3 and above, plastic flaps prevent inadvertent contact with the inside of the conductor channel. The elastomer insert ensures protection against contact after the bolts shear off.

Low shear off torque

The shear off bolts are tightened using standard tools. Once the optimal contact force is reached, the bolt gently breaks away at a torque of between 2.5 and 27 Nm, depending on the type. This prevents common installation errors and makes live line working much safer.

Compact and well designed

Once installed, the small size of LV piercing connectors makes subsequent work easier. Compact cable joints with cast resin mean that fewer resources are needed for the final installation. The connectors can be placed close to each other without any further accessories.

Type 1 and 2 are equipped with a push together system: multiple connectors can be joined together to form a compact unit. With type 3 to 5, the elimination of the cover caps ensures the smallest possible dimensions.

• Insulation does not have to be stripped from individual conductors
• Easy, safe installation – ideal for live line working
• Shear-off bolts prevent installation errors
• IP2X protection against electrical hazards
• Consistent operational reliability, according to IEC 61238-1 Class A
• Compact design – less cast resin when jointing cables
• Creepage distance conform to EN 60664, Pollution Degree 1

• Voltage: up to 1 kV
• Conductor cross-section: 1 to 240 mm²
• Conductor category: class 1 and 2
• Shear torque: 2.5 to 27 Nm

Further Reading

• ISICOMPACT from PFISTERER | Branch Terminals for LV Cables & House Service Connections
• 2DIREKT from PFISTERER | Cable Connections & Terminal Clamps for Transformer Bushings & Busbars

THORNE & DERRICK

Thorne & Derrick stock and distribute PFISTERER CONNEX Connectors for medium / high voltage cable connection and termination to electrical systems up to 33kV – we provide competitive prices for PFISTERER CONNEX connectors used to terminate and connect polymeric insulated MV-HV cables into gas insulated switchgear and electrical equipment from extensive UK stocks.

Thorne & Derrick are national distributors of LV, MV & HV Cable Installation, Jointing, Substation & Electrical Equipment – servicing businesses involved in cabling, jointing, substation, earthing, overhead line and electrical construction at LV, 11kV, 33kV, 66kV and EHV. Supplying a complete range of power cable accessories to support the installation and maintenance of low/medium and high voltage cable systems:

• Slip-on Cable Terminations
• Cold-shrink Cable Terminations
• Heat-shrink Cable Terminations
• Cable Joints – Heat & Cold-shrink
• Separable Connectors (Euromold)
• Surge Arresters & Switchgear/Transformer Bushings

Key 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 

The SEANEX inner cone solution is an offshore variant of the successful Connex HV connection system that is specially adapted for 66kV inter-array cabling.

MV Connex Products | Ex Stock Thorne & Derrick | Inner Cone Cable Connectors 33kV

2DIREKT from PFISTERER | Cable Connections & Terminal Clamps for Transformer Bushings & Busbars

2DIREKT from PFISTERER – Connection Terminal For Distribution Transformers

Thorne & Derrick | Approved Pfisterer Supplier | UK & Export Sales

2DIREKT from PFISTERER

Simple, Safe, Versatile Connectors

In modern substation engineering, cable connections are increasingly implemented using screw technology. The 2DIREKT terminal clamp by PFISTERER is a solution for connections to transformers and busbars.

2DIREKT combines simple installation with a compact, cost-effective design.

Almost 100 years of contact technology experience and innovations for easy and safe installation are in every 2DIREKT terminal block.

Connects directly to transformer bushing or busbar

The 2DIREKT clamp is connected directly to the distribution transformer. It screws onto the transformer bushing and is secured via a clamping groove and clamping screw. This reduces the amount of installation work and the risk of connection errors.

No cable lugs have to pressed on, and no wire-end ferrules have to be fitted. There are fewer points of contact and transition resistance is minimised.

The 2DIREKT A version allows cables to be connected directly to busbars. Fine grooves on the underside of the clamp enables connection without additional components directly on the busbar.

The 2DIREKT is connected directly to the distribution transformer, making palm terminals, cable lugs, sleeves and nuts redundant

Safety during installation and operation

The patented conductor connection system eliminates damage to the conductor during installation. A rotating plate on the base of the clamping bolt prevents individual fine-wire conductors from being damaged or even cut off. During operation, the plate functions like a spring and ensures constant contact pressure.

One clamp for all cross-sections

The 2DIREKT clamp can be used for multiple cross-sections. Various versions are available for cross-sections of 16-95 mm², 35-240 mm² and 185-400 mm². All forms of class 1, 2 and 5 copper conductors as well as class 1 and 2 aluminium conductors can be connected.

This makes the 2DIREKT not only practical but also cost-effective. The right clamp is always available on site, and stock keeping is much simpler. 2DIREKT clamps are electrically type-tested in accordance with IEC 61238-1 class A.

Compact, sophisticated design

2DIREKT offers two cable outlet directions in one body. The clamping channel and the threaded hole for the clamping screw are identical, so the conductor can be connected at a 90° angle if required. This ensures easy installation even in confined environments.

2DIREKT

Benefits

• Conductors can be connected vertically and/or horizontally
• Connection without wire-end ferrule or cable lug
• Individual strands are not damaged
• Reduced space requirements
• Removable connection
• Installation with standard tools, no compression required
• Range-taking: fewer different types means simpler stock keeping

2DIREKT Facts

• Voltage: up to 1 kV
• Current: up to 4 kA
• Conductor cross-section: 16 to 400 mm²
• Conductor: aluminium class 1 and 2, copper class 1, 2 and 5 (fine wire)
• Transformer clamp for bushings per DIN EN 50386

Connection for busbars

The 2DIREKT A version allows cables to be connected to busbars. The clamp is mounted directly on the busbar. Fine grooves on the underside of the clamp make line contact, ensuring very good power transmission that remains stable over time with minimal contact resistance. Depending on the installation situation, 2DIREKT A is available with a through hole, threaded hole or stud bolt.

Further Reading

• ISICOMPACT from PFISTERER | Branch Terminals for LV Cables & House Service Connections
• Insulation Piercing Connectors LV for Low Voltage Live Working & Cable Jointing

THORNE & DERRICK

Thorne & Derrick stock and distribute PFISTERER CONNEX Connectors for medium / high voltage cable connection and termination to electrical systems up to 33kV – we provide competitive prices for PFISTERER CONNEX connectors used to terminate and connect polymeric insulated MV-HV cables into gas insulated switchgear and electrical equipment from extensive UK stocks.

Thorne & Derrick are national distributors of LV, MV & HV Cable Installation, Jointing, Substation & Electrical Equipment – servicing businesses involved in cabling, jointing, substation, earthing, overhead line and electrical construction at LV, 11kV, 33kV, 66kV and EHV. Supplying a complete range of power cable accessories to support the installation and maintenance of low/medium and high voltage cable systems:

• Slip-on Cable Terminations
• Cold-shrink Cable Terminations
• Heat-shrink Cable Terminations
• Cable Joints – Heat & Cold-shrink
• Separable Connectors (Euromold)
• Surge Arresters & Switchgear/Transformer Bushings

Key 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 

The SEANEX inner cone solution is an offshore variant of the successful Connex HV connection system that is specially adapted for 66kV inter-array cabling.

MV Connex Products | Ex Stock Thorne & Derrick | Inner Cone Cable Connectors 33kV

ISICOMPACT from PFISTERER | Branch Terminals for LV Cables & House Service Connections

ISICOMPACT – Tap Connector for Low-Voltage Networks

Thorne & Derrick | Approved Pfisterer Supplier | UK & Export Sales

ISICOMPACT from PFISTERER

Branch Terminals for LV Cables & House Service Connections

Practical installation, good occupational safety and high levels of operational reliability are fundamental criteria for home power connections. ISICOMPACT by PFISTERER – the inventor of multi-conductor cable branch technology is the perfect solution.

With the invention of the compact screw terminal in 1968, PFISTERER set the standard in house connection technology. Well over 20 million SCK have been installed since then. Fast forward 30 years and the time had come for further development – ISICOMPACT technology.

The ISICOMPACT establishes all contacts for a 4-conductor cable branch using a single screw connection. When the screw connection is tightened, contact is established by piercing the insulation on the main line and branch lines.

Once the required clamping force has been achieved, the screw shears off and thereby ensures successful installation. By providing protection against contact and thus against electrical hazards, the ISICOMPACT is designed for live line work.

It is currently the only cable tap connector that also meets the strict requirements of BSI 862 – a German approval that enables a process for live line work without additional PPE and requires LLW electricians to undergo special training and the LV power network provider to be approved.

Six screws become ONE

ISICOMPACT reliably creates a branch connection from the supply cable to the end customer with just one screw. This simplifies and speeds up installation.

Where as conventional “clamping rings” have at least six screws, one or more of which are usually poorly accessible, the single screw on the ISICOMPACT can be placed on the cable to suit conditions, and conveniently tightened from above or from the side.

Simple & safe installation

Tightening the screw establishes all conductor contacts reliably and safely to form the cable branch. Insulation does not have to be removed from the conductor; contacts are established by piercing the insulation.

Spring pressure plates on both sides of the clamp ensure permanent contact force. The design and installation sequence ensure protection against contact with live parts throughout all work steps.

Live line working

Providing shock-proof protection against electrical hazards, ISICOMPACT is designed for live line working. The “green” version ISICOMPACT plus is the only cable tap connector approved by employer’s liability insurance association BG ETEM for live line work without additional PPE. It meets the strict requirements of DGUV Information 203-031 (formerly BGI 862).

ISICOMPACT – Reliable home connection with just one screw

High flexibility

Compared to conventional cable tap connectors, ISICOMPACT offers significantly larger clamping ranges and high flexibility in use. Altogether there are two standard sizes and seven variants. ISICOMPACT multi combines the S, M and 3 1/2 variants in one product.

As a result, electricians are equipped for all eventualities. At the same time, the smaller number of variants reduces the risk of using the wrong type and cuts inventory costs.

Unique shear-off technology

ISICOMPACT features a specially developed shear nut which performs two tasks during fitting. It defines the installation end-point and minimises the clamp’s dimensions. Once the optimal contact force is reached, the shear nut operates and the protruding section of the screw breaks away burr-free. Subsequently, ISICOMPACT fits into all commercially available cast resin joints.

Currently used by all major energy suppliers. ISICOMPACT cable branch technology

Everything from a single source

Clamping ring and cast resin joints from the inventor of multi-conductor cable branch technology. As a contact technology specialist and solution-oriented system provider, PFISTERER offers a wide selection of cast resin joints to complement the ISICOMPACT connection system, as well as complete matching sets comprising a cast resin joint and the cable tap connector. Our proven two-component cast resins with excellent flow characteristics are available in tins or in a practical two-chamber bag.

ISICOMPACT Benefits

• No stripping of conductors
• Insulation does not have to be removed from the conductor
• Shock-proof protection against electrical hazards
• One-Screw solution with defined shear torque
• Consistent operational reliability, tested to DIN VDE 0220 part 3
• Reduced range of variants due to large area of application
• Ideal for live line work

ISICOMPACT in Numbers

• Main conductor cross-section: 25-240 sqmm
• Branch conductor cross-section: 6-185 sqmm
• Voltage: up to 1 kV

Further Reading

• 2DIREKT from PFISTERER | Cable Connections & Terminal Clamps for Transformer Bushings & Busbars
• Insulation Piercing Connectors LV for Low Voltage Live Working & Cable Jointing

THORNE & DERRICK

Thorne & Derrick stock and distribute PFISTERER CONNEX Connectors for medium / high voltage cable connection and termination to electrical systems up to 33kV – we provide competitive prices for PFISTERER CONNEX connectors used to terminate and connect polymeric insulated MV-HV cables into gas insulated switchgear and electrical equipment from extensive UK stocks.

Thorne & Derrick are national distributors of LV, MV & HV Cable Installation, Jointing, Substation & Electrical Equipment – servicing businesses involved in cabling, jointing, substation, earthing, overhead line and electrical construction at LV, 11kV, 33kV, 66kV and EHV. Supplying a complete range of power cable accessories to support the installation and maintenance of low/medium and high voltage cable systems:

• Slip-on Cable Terminations
• Cold-shrink Cable Terminations
• Heat-shrink Cable Terminations
• Cable Joints – Heat & Cold-shrink
• Separable Connectors (Euromold)
• Surge Arresters & Switchgear/Transformer Bushings

Key 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 

The SEANEX inner cone solution is an offshore variant of the successful Connex HV connection system that is specially adapted for 66kV inter-array cabling.

MV Connex Products | Ex Stock Thorne & Derrick | Inner Cone Cable Connectors 33kV