Electrical Safety
Earthing Spiders
June 22nd, 2018
Portable Earthing & Short Circuiting Kits
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uploaded by - Chris Dodds Thorne & Derrick Sales & Marketing Manager
➡ Thorne & Derrick stock a complete range of Earthing Spiders to provide portable earthing and short circuiting solutions for LV MV HV substation and overhead line applications – contact us for UK and Exports Sales of substation and transmission line portable earth leads. Largest European stocks of CATU Electrical.
ASTM D120 Insulating Gloves
June 12th, 2018
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uploaded by Chris Dodds - Thorne & Derrick
ASTM D120 specification covers manufacturing and testing of rubber insulating gloves for protection of workers from electrical shock.
Two types of insulating gloves are provided and are designated as Type I, non-resistant to ozone, and Type II, resistant to ozone.
Six classes of ASTM D120 compliant insulating gloves differing in electrical characteristics are provided and are designated as Class 00, Class 0, Class 1, Class 2, Class 3 and Class 4.
The following tests shall be performed as part of the ASTM D120 Standard Specification for Rubber Insulating Gloves:
- ac proof test
- ac breakdown test
- ac moisture absorption/proof test
- dc proof test
- dc breakdown test
- ozone resistance test
- chemical tests
- tensile strength
- tear resistance test
- puncture resistance test
This following abstract is a brief summary of the referenced ASTM D120 standard – this is provided for informational purposes only and not an official part of the ASTM D120 standard; the full text of the standard itself must be referred to for its use and application.
ASTM does not give any warranty express or implied or make any representation that the contents of this abstract are accurate, complete or up to date.
Scope Of ASTM D120
1.1 This specification covers manufacturing and testing of rubber insulating gloves for protection of workers from electrical shock
1.2 Two types of gloves are provided and are designated as Type I, non-resistant to ozone, and Type II, resistant to ozone
1.3 6 classes of insulating gloves each differing in electrical characteristics are provided and are designated as Class 00, Class 0, Class 1, Class 2, Class 3, and Class 4
1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. See IEEE/ASTM SI 10
1.5 The following safety hazards caveat pertains only to the test method portion, Sections 16, 17, 18, and 19, of this specification. This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
Insulating Gloves
The following table enables the selection of ASTM D120 Insulating Gloves according to working voltage and insulating class category – should you require any assistance with the correct type, specification or size of gloves please do not hesitate to contact us.
| CATU Electrical Code | Insulating Glove Class | Voltage | Type | Inches | Colour |
| CATU CGA-00 | Class 00 | ≤ 500V | 1 | 14 | Black |
| CATU CGA-0 | Class 0 | ≤ 1000V | 1 | 14 | Black |
| CATU CGA-1 | Class 1 | ≤ 7500V | 1 | 14 | Bi-Colour |
| CATU CGA-2 | Class 2 | ≤ 17000V | 1 | 14 | Bi-Colour |
| CATU CGA-3 | Class 3 | ≤ 26500V | 1 | 14 | Bi-Colour |
| CATU CGA-4 | Class 4 | ≤ 36000V | 1 | 16 | Bi-Colour |

Insulating Matting | Voltage Detectors | Insulating Gloves | Substation Safety | Arc Flash Clothing Protection
Substation Safety Equipment From CATU Electrical
May 9th, 2018-
Uploaded by Chris Dodds - Thorne & Derrick Sales & Marketing Manager
CATU Electrical is the world leading manufacturer of Electrical Safety Equipment for working on opower systems including cables, switchgear, substations and electrical equipment operating at LV (Low Voltage), MV (Medium Voltage) and HV (High Voltage).
Thorne & Derrick International, based in the UK, are the largest stockist and supplier of CATU Electrical products in Europe.
Together, we make the world a safer place. Here’s how.
Once Upon A Time…..
CATU Electrical was created in 1919 and since the beginning it has dedicated its activity to the manufacture of safety material, PPE and equipment for LV MV HV electricity networks and installations – whether underground or overhead, onshore or offshore, CATU Electrical protects utility workers from the workplace hazards of the amp and volt.
Since 1936, CATU’s activity has been concentrated on equipment for personal protection against electrical hazards such as arc flash clothing and accordingly has now more than 60 years experience in this field.
After the end of World War II, many French companies involved in Production, Transmission and Distribution of
electrical energy were amalgamated into one national company, called “Electricité de France” (EDF).
Poster : Le Bon D’Electricite by Mario, an original vintage poster from 1926 France. This original antique poster features a plug and contact nest in the shape of the map of France.
A short time later, a central department for Safety and Prevention of Accidents was created within EDF.
Because of experience that CATU already had in this field, a close cooperation was forged between EDF and CATU which resulted in joint development of all the important Safety Material and Equipment now used in France.
The international recognition gained by EDF in this field has contributed to giving CATU Electrical a foremost position as international suppliers of LV MV HV Electrical Safety Equipment from Argentina to Zambia.
Today, CATU Safety Equipment including all the ranges of short-circuiting and portable earthing systems, voltage detectors and testers, the live working tools and the electrical safety equipment for Cable Jointers and Linesmen is used by the main power utilities and electrical contractors in over 100 countries spread across 5 continents.
CATU’s experience and level of investment and research is unmatched and unrivalled – they are members of the main national and international technical committees (such as UTE, CENELEC, IEC and ASTM).
CATU Electrical is contributing to the development and application of the latest technologies – this quest for continuous improvement and innovation is now reinforced with their ISO 9001:2000 Quality Insurance Certification.
No surprises then that CATU Electrical is the preferred brand of choice and most specified manufacturer by the world’s leading oil and gas EPC companies.
Insulating Gloves

Insulating gloves conform to international IEC-60903 standard – to satisfy the requirements of this standard CATU Electrical gloves are subjected to dielectrical, mechanical resistance and ageing tests.
* CATU part references to be completed by size A, B, C, D. **References to be completed by size C, D. Correspondence with standard sizes: A = 8, B = 9, C = 10, D = 11
| CATU Electrical Glove Reference | Insulating Level | Voltage (V) | Thickness | Weight (g) |
| CG-02* (1) | Class 00 Gloves | 500V | 0.9mm | 220g |
| CG-05* | Class 00 Gloves | 500V | 0.5mm | 90g |
| CG-10* | Class 0 Gloves | 1000V | 1.0mm | 200g |
| CG-15** | Class 1 Gloves | 7500V | 1.5mm | 270g |
| CG-20** | Class 2 Gloves | 17000V | 2.3mm | 450g |
| CG-30** | Class 3 Gloves | 26500V | 2.9mm | 560g |
| CG-40** | Class 4 Gloves | 36000V | 3.6mm | 800g |
Insulating Boots

CATU MV-135*
CATU Electrical manufacture insulating boots made from elastomer canvas support, very flexible and slip resistant for offshore electrical engineers and substation workers. Anti-perforation stainless steel sole and shell the electrical insulating footwear is in accordance with EN 345.
Insulating Matting

The insulating matting is manufactured of elastomer compounds with slip-resistant surface. High quality dielectrical rubber matting conforming to international IEC 61111 standard for LV MV HV offshore electrical switchgear and switchboard applications including 11kV and 33kV operating voltages.
| CATU Electrical Matting Reference | Tension (kV) | Thickness | Dimensions (m) |
| MP-42/11 | ≤26.5kV | 3mm | 1m x 1m |
| MP-42/16 | ≤26.5kV | 3mm | 0.6m x 1m |
| MP-42/66 | ≤26.5kV | 3mm | 0.6m x 0.6m |
| MP-60/03-10 | ≤26.5kV | 3mm | 0.6m x 10m |
| MP-100/03-5 | ≤26.5kV | 3mm | 1m x 5m |
| MP-60/05-5 | ≤26.5kV | 5mm | 0.6m x 5m |
| MP-100/05-5 | ≤36 | 5mm | 1m x 5m |
| MP-60/10-10 | >80kV | 10mm | 0.6m x 10m |
IEC6111 Insulating Matting
| Class Of Insulating Matting According To IEC61111 | Proof Test | AC Maximum Working Voltage | Withstand Test Of Insulating Matting |
| Class 0 Insulating Matting | 5kV | 1000V – LV Low Voltage | 10kV |
| Class 1 Insulating Matting | 10kV | 7500V – MV Medium Voltage | 20kV |
| Class 2 Insulating Matting | 20kV | 17000V – MV Medium Voltage | 30kV |
| Class 3 Insulating Matting | 30kV | 26500V – MV Medium Voltage | 40kV |
| Class 4 Insulating Matting | 40kV | 36000V – HV High Voltage | 50kV |
Insulated Tools
➡ Further information about insulated tools manufactured by CATU Electrical.
| CATU Part Number | MO-510-03 (Delivered without tool bag) |
| Personal Equipment | |
| MO-11001 | 1 Safety Glasses |
| CG-98 | 1 Working Gloves |
| Voltage Detector | |
| MS-911-EX | 1 Voltage Multitester |
| Insulating Equipment | |
| CG-05-B | 1 Rubber Gloves Size B |
| CG-36 | 1 Carrying Bag for Rubber Gloves |
| MP-42/16 | 1 Insulating Mat 3mm |
| MP-26-A | 10 Insulating Caps |
| MP-35/12 | 1 Insulating Blanket |
| MP-39 | 10 Wood Clamps for Insulating Blanket |
| MP-32/15 | 6 Line Protectors 1.50m |
| MP-19 | 5 Insulating Adhesive Tapes |
| Insulating Tools | |
| MO-61001 | 1 Stripping Knife |
| MO-67502 | 1 Cable Cutter 230mm |
| MO-68008/19 | 1 Open End Spanners Set With 8 / 10 / 11 / 12 / 13 / 14 / 19mm |
| MO-69903 | 1 Right Angle Hexagonal Key Wrench 3mm |
| MO-69904 | 1 Right Angle Hexagonal Key Wrench 4mm |
| MO-69906 | 1 Right Angle Hexagonal Key Wrench 6mm |
| MO-751 | 1 Insulating Folding Rule |
| MO-69003 | 1 Adjustable Spanner 250mm |
| MO-66002 | 1 Universal Pliers 180mm |
| MO-66202 | 1 Round Nose Pliers 160mm |
| MO-66502 | 1 Water Pump Pliers 250mm |
| MO-67102 | 1 Side Cutter 160mm |
| MO-69308/23 | 1 Sockets 3/8″ Wrench Set with 10 Sockets: 8, 10, 12, 13, 14, 17, 19, 21, 22, 23 |
| MO-65205 | 1 Flat Blade Screwdriver 4 x 100 |
| MO-65207 | 1 Flat Blade Screwdriver 6.5 x 150 |
| MO-65209 | 1 Flat Blade Screwdriver 8 x 175 |
| MO-65232 | 1 Phillips Screwdriver No.1 |
| MO-65234 | 1 Phillips Screwdriver No.2 |
| MO-65236 | 1 Phillips Screwdriver No.3 |
Arc Flash Clothing & Protection
➡ Further information about arc flash clothing and protection manufactured by CATU Electrical.

Arc Flash Face Shield Kit – 10cal/sqcm
CATU KIT-ARC-01 arc flash face shield kit comprises of:
- 1 Face shield with chin cup 10cal/sqcm, absorbs> 99.9% of harmful UV radiation, 70% light transmission, tested to ASTM F2178 specifications
- 1 ABS helmet electrically insulated EN397, EN 50365, ANSI Z89.1, 20kV.
- 1 carrying bag for face shield and helmet

KIT-ARC-01 – Arc Flash Face Shield Kit
Arc Flash Jacket Kit – 11cal/sqcm
CATU KIT-ARC-02 arc flash jacket kit comprises of:
- 1 Face shield with chin cup 10cal/sqcm, absorbs> 99.9% of harmful UV radiation, tested to ASTM F2178 specifications
- 1 ABS helmet electrically insulated EN397, EN 50365, ANSI Z89.1, 20kV.
- 1 safety glasses EN 166/EN 170
- 1 arc flash protective jacket 11cal/sqcm (size XL – other sizes on request),ASTM F1506 and NFPA 70E Standards
- 1 carrying bag for face shield and helmet
- 1 all kit carrying bag

KIT-ARC-02 Arc Flash Jacket Kit
Arc Flash Protective Coverall Kit – 11cal/sqcm
CATU KIT-ARC-03 arc flash protective coverall kit comprises of:
- 1 Face shield with chin cup 10cal/sqcm, absorbs> 99.9% of harmful UV radiation, tested to ASTM F2178 specifications
- 1 ABS helmet electrically insulated EN397, EN 50365, 20kV.
- 1 safety glasses EN 166/EN 170
- 1 arc flash protective hood
- 1 protective coverall 11cal/sqcm (size L- other sizes on request),ASTM F1506 and NFPA 70E Standards
- 1 carrying bag for face shield and helmet
- 1 all kit carrying bag
Arc Flash Protective Hood Kit – 40cal/sqcm
CATU KIT-ARC-04 arc flash protective hood kit comprises of:
- 1 arc flash protective hood 40cal/sqcm, ASTM F2178 and NFPA 70E Standards
- 1 arc flash protective coat 40cal/sqcm, (size L), ASTM F1506 and NFPA 70E Standards
- 1 arc flash protective bib overall 40cal/sqcm,(size XL*), ASTM F1506 and NFPA 70E Standards
- 1ABS helmet electrically insulated EN397, EN 50365, ANSI Z89.1, 20kV.
- 1 safety glasses EN 166/EN 170
- 1 carrying bag for face shield and helmet
- 1 all kit carrying bag
Substation Life Saving Kits
➡ Further information about substation and life saving kits manufactured by CATU Electrical.
Wall Mounted Life Saving Kit
In case of an electrical accident, quick response is essential: seconds gained or lost can decide the life or death of a victim.
Our life saving equipment is designed to make all necessary materials immediately available to rescue personnel.

CATU Wall Mounted Life Saving Kit
Composition of the kit:
- 1 moulded plastic support with translucid high resistance plastic door.
- 1 rescue telescopic stick
- 1 voltage detector with flexible antenna contact (with autotest)
- 1 cable cutter with insulated handles Forged steel blades maximum opening: 30 mm
- 1 insulating platform 24 or 36 kV high voltage
- 1 insulating gloves
- 1 insulating boots
- 1 Safety instructions on the plastic door
- 1 talcum powder can.
| CATU Part Ref | Description | Maximum Voltage | Dimensions | Weight |
| CATU CZ-54-R | Wall mounted life saving kit with instructions in English | 24kV | 840mm x 754mm x 270mm | 21kg |
| CATU CZ-54-RM | Wall mounted life saving kit with instructions in English / Arabic | 24kV | 840mm x 754mm x 270mm | 21kg |
| CATU CZ-55-R | Wall mounted life saving kit with instructions in English | 36kV | 840mm x 754mm x 270mm | 21kg |
| CATU CZ-55-RM | Wall mounted life saving kit with instructions in English / Arabic | 36kV | 840mm x 754mm x 270mm | 21kg |
Compact Carrying Life Saving Kit
This compact kit is designed especially to be carried in a vehicle for safety electrical intervention (up to 24 kV). Made in two part (of moulded material: PEHD), the case is also on its red part, an insulating platform.

CATU Substation Life Saving Kits
Composition of the kit:
- 1 insulating platform 24 or 36 kV
- 1 telescopic insulating stick
- 1 voltage detector with autotest
- 1 rescue hook
- 1 insulated cable cutter
- 1 pair of insulating gloves
- 1 pair of insulating boots
- 1 talcum powder can
- 1 safety instructions and safety first aid posters
- 1 adhesive tape (black and yellow).
| CATU Part Ref | Description | Maximum Voltage | Dimensions | Weight |
| CATU CZ-53-R | Life saving kit with instructions in English | 25kV | 710mm x 510mm x 240mm | 21kg |
| CATU CZ-53-MR | Life saving kit with instructions in English / Arabic | 25kV | 710mm x 510mm x 240mm | 21kg |
| CATU CZ-53-R/2 | Life saving kit with instructions in English | 36kV | 710mm x 510mm x 240mm | 21kg |
| CATU CZ-53-MR/2 | Life saving kit with instructions in English / Arabic | 36kV | 710mm x 510mm x 240mm | 21kg |
Voltage Detectors
➡ Further information about voltage detectors manufactured by CATU Electrical.
The DETEX voltage detector HBL is designed to offer users maximum safety on MV installations with explosive atmosphere.
- Voltage presence is indicated by both extremely bright red flashing LED’s and powerful rated audible signal > 60 dB/2 m.
- High reliability
- Tropicalized: -25 / +55 °C.
- housing made from polycarbonate with high mechanical properties and dielectric strength.

CATU CC-365-(*)-HBL-(**)
**End fitting C or K, recommend stick: CE-4-21
*Range of voltage 3/10 kV, 10/30 kV, 30/45 kV
Phase Comparators
➡ Further information about phase comparators manufactured by CATU Electrical.
Detect differences in voltage between any two points of an installation indicated by LED’s. It also enables assessment of the order of magnitude of the residual voltage induced by nearby live lines or circuits, and thus differentiates it from the one provided directly from a high voltage source.
Range of voltage: 2/36 kV

CATU CL-8-36
Short Circuiting & Portable Earthing Systems

| Installations on fixed permanent points | ||||
| CATU Part Reference | Rating (kA/1 s) | Installation on fixed points | Composition | Connection set |
| CATU MT-1910 | 20 | Ø 20 mm MT-2951 range | 3 clamps MT-1911-E 1 MT-1911 | 3 cables 95 mm2 1 earth cable 35 mm2 |
| CATU MT-1920 | 30 | Ø 25 mm MT-3951 range | 3 clamps MT-1921-E 1 MT-1921 | 3 cables 150 mm2 1 earth cable 50 mm2 |
Recommended stick to be ordered separately: CF-5-40-E

| Installations on bare conductors | ||||
| CATU Part Reference | Rating (kA/1 s) | Installation on fixed points | Composition | Connection set |
| CATU MT-5805 | 20 | Ø 5-35 16-40 5-40 | 3 clamps MT-815-C 1 MT-840/1 | 3 cables 95 mm2 1 earth cable 35 mm2 |
| CATU MT-8408 | 12.5 | Ø 18-33 | 3 clamps MT-814/3 1 MT-840/1 | 3 cables 70 mm2 1 earth cable 35 mm2 |
| CATU MT-9801 | 10 | Ø 5-16 0-16 Ø 5-28 | 3 clamps MT-817-C 3 clamps MT-814/2 1 MT-840/1 | 3 cables 50 mm2 1 earth cable 25 mm2 |
Recommended stick to be ordered separately: CF-4-21-C
♦ Further Reading
For more reading about Electrical Safety, read the T&D blog:
- Electrical Safety – Arc Flash Accidents & Electrocution In LV-HV Installations
- Can Arc Flash Clothing Save Cable Jointers Lives?
- Arc Flash Calculation – Selecting Clothing & PPE To Protect Lives Against Arc Hazard
- Insulating Matting – IEC 61111 Specifications & Selection For Switchboard Matting

Thorne & Derrick distribute the most extensive range of Low & High Voltage Cable Installation & Electrical Distribution Equipment to the Power Transmission & Distribution industry in the onshore and offshore wind, solar, rail, oil/gas, data centre, battery storage and utility sectors – this includes Joints, Terminations & Connectors to enable the installation of low, medium and high voltage power cables into underground trench or duct.
Key Product Categories: Connectors, Joints & Terminations MV HV | Cable Preparation & Jointing Tools | Duct Seals | Cable Transits | Cable Cleats | Cable Glands | Electrical Safety | Arc Flash Clothing & Protection | Cable Pulling | Earthing & Lightning Protection | Feeder Pillars
Main UK Stockists for: 3M Electrical, PFISTERER Connex, Nexans Power Cable Accessories (Euromold), Alroc, Ellis Patents, ABB, Roxtec, Cembre & CATU Electrical.
Eliminate Arc Flash To Minimise Downtime & Repair Costs At The Circuit Breaker
April 11th, 2018
Guest Post By: Melissa Payne Marketing Executive at IPU Ltd
Industrial Power Units Limited offer arc flash protection systems for switchgear consisting of a protection relay and arc flash detection sensor. It is estimated that there are 8 to 10 arc flash incidents every week in the UK with switchgear often being neglected from protection even though accidents are a common occurrence causing devastating consequences.

Arc Flash Protection System
Arc Flash Protection System Configuration
This short animation shows a basic configuration set-up of an arc protection system. This Arcteq system features AQ110 and 3 AQ101 relays, along with several point sensors. This comprehensive set-up will allow for rapid arc detection (just 2 ms). The quick tripping of the circuit breaker will result in less damage from the arc or arc flash to both electrical equipment and personnel working nearby because it cannot reach full velocity.
Arc Flashes Explained
An arc flash can be produced as the result of a short circuit between different live conductors, a short circuit between a live conductor and an earth under a fault condition, or by separating live conductors during operational conditions.
The result is a powerful explosion of energy. The explosion will vaporise switchgear components as temperatures reach 20,000°C. The direct costs from this are undoubtedly high. The indirect costs from lost production can be even higher.
Arc flash and protection simply cannot be ignored.
Arc Flash Protection
Giving employees arc flash clothing and PPE is the standard response to the threat of arc flashes. Whilst this is an important step to take to protect employees, it won’t protect your equipment. It won’t prevent disruption to your business.
The AQ100 arc flash relay recognises an arc fault through light detection only or a combination of overcurrent and light detection. The relay then sends a trip command to the circuit breaker nearest to the fault. The breaker is opened, the current cut and the arc eliminated.
It takes just 30ms for the arc flash to reach maximum pressure and 100ms for temperatures to reach 20,000°C. The AQ100 arc flash relay will detect the fault in just 2ms and will send the trip command to eliminate the arc in less than 7ms. The ultra-fast speed of the tripping means damage will be limited to just a small section of the LV MV HV switchgear and electrical equipment.
And with selective tripping available, just the circuit breaker of the feeder affected by the fault will trip. The rest of the feeders will stay functional.
The ultra-fast reaction of the AQ100 system will ensure the safety of operating personnel even during an arc flashover.
Don’t underestimate the importance of protecting your equipment as well as your employees.

Life Saving Protection Against Arc Flash – whether working on underground substation cables or overhead transmission lines. Image: Allteck Power Line

Arc Flash 11kV Substation Blast – devastating effects on medium voltage electrical equipment, cables and circuits.
About Industrial Power Units Limited
IPU Group is a privately owned industrial company based in the UK, in West Bromwich, West Midlands – designing, manufacturing and distributing high quality parts and systems for critical diesel and gas engine applications.
IPU supply engineered solutions into other industries where reliability, performance and safety are paramount including: Oil & Gas, Marine, Industrial Engines, Mining & Quarrying and Land Based Industries.
Call +44 (0)121 511 0400
Email: [email protected]

Arc Flash | Polo Shirts | Jackets | Coveralls | Sweatshirts | Helmets | Insulating Gloves

Thorne & Derrick International supply arc flash clothing and protection equipment including coveralls, gloves, helmets, face shields and general head-to-toe PPE is used to protect against flashover – complete range of insulating matting is also available for worker protection when exposed to energised electrical switchgear and transformers.
Typical applications include LV, HV & EHV cable jointing and terminating, fuse pulling, switchgear commissioning, racking circuit breakers, electrical switching and live working on medium and high voltage electricity networks.
T&D are national distributors LV, MV & HV Cable Installation, Jointing, Substation & Electrical Equipment – we service UK and global businesses involved in cable installations, cable cleating, cable jointing, substation, overhead line and electrical construction at LV, 11kV, 33kV and EHV.
Since 1985, T&D have established an international reputation based on SERVICE | INTEGRITY | TRUST.
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.
Invitation
Thorne & Derrick invite you to join LinkedIn’s largest LV-HV Electrical Discussion Group : Low & High Voltage Power, Cabling, Jointing & Electricals. Discussion subjects include cable installations, cable jointing, substation, overhead line and electrical construction at LV, 11kV, 33kV and EHV. Network, engage and promote your profile, company or products with over 10,000 influencers.
Portable Earthing Kits Installed With Insulating Sticks To High Voltage Overhead Lines
January 23rd, 2018- Images Courtesy: Murray Jones (Specialist Trainer, Transmission Lines & Rigging)
- Application: Portable Earthing Overhead Line Distribution Networks
- Voltage: 275kV Extra High Voltage (EHV)
- Uploaded by Chris Dodds – reading time 3 minutes
Portable Earthing
In this high-wire act the overhead linesmen are shown using Portable Earthing Kits on 275kV overhead power distribution and transmission lines – the portable earths are installed and connected using Insulating Sticks.
♦ See Portable Earthing – Short Circuiting Kits For HV Substations & Overhead Lines

The bottom phases are earthed using high voltage portable earthing kits by the Linesmen.

CATU Electrical – High Voltage Electrical Safety Equipment

Using insulating sticks the portable earthing kits are positioned and clamped to the overhead line by the Linesmen.


Insulating Matting | Insulating Gloves | Substation Safety | Arc Flash Clothing MV HV EHV Electrical Safety Equipment Suppliers & Stockists
Electrical Safety For Overhead Lines & Substations
Thorne & Derrick International are the UK’s leading stockist and supplier of the CATU Electrical range of Electrical Safety Equipment – protecting utility workers including jointers, splicers and linesmen exposed to the risk of electrocution and arc flash hazards.
A complete range of HV Sticks are available for use on 33kV/40kV, 66kV/90kV and 275/400kV underground cables and overhead lines with a selection of short circuiting and portable earthing kits and associated high voltage earth clamps for substation busbars or line conductors. Insulating sticks are available as telescopic and extendable suitable for outdoor use or supplied as fixed length sticks.
The following tables provides an overview of Portable Earthing Kits available from CATU Electrical, The Electrical Safety Specialists – comprehensive range of earthing clamps are available for MV-HV substation, power cables and overhead conductors.
| Medium & High Voltage Substation Portable Earthing Kits | ||||
| CATU Part Reference | Earth Kit Rating (kA/1 s) | Installation on Fixed Points | Composition | Connection Kit |
| CATU MT-1910 | 20kA/1 s | Ø 20 mm MT-2951 range | 3 Earth clamps CATU MT-1911-E 1 MT-1911 | 3 cables 95 mm2 1 earth cable 35 mm2 |
| CATU MT-1920 | 30kA/1 s | Ø 25 mm MT-3951 range | 3 Earth clamps CATU MT-1921-E 1 MT-1921 | 3 cables 150 mm2 1 earth cable 50 mm2 |
♦ Portable earthing kits used with CATU CF-5-40-E insulating stick (up to 40kV) – generally used to provide short circuiting and earthing on power systems operating at 11kV/33kV.

Portable Earthing & Short Circuiting Kits
| Portable Earthing Kits Overhead Line Conductors & Cables | ||||
| CATU Part Reference | Earth Kit Rating (kA/1 s) | Installation on Fixed Points | Composition | Connection Kit |
| CATU MT-5805 | 20kA/1 s | Ø 5-35 16-40 5-40 | 3 Earth clamps CATU MT-815-C 1 MT-840/1 | 3 cables 95 mm2 1 earth cable 35 mm2 |
| CATU MT-8408 | 12.5kA/1 s | Ø 18-33 | 3 Earth clamps CATU MT-814/3 1 MT-840/1 | 3 cables 70 mm2 1 earth cable 35 mm2 |
| CATU MT-9801 | 10kA/1 s | Ø 5-16 0-16 Ø 5-28 | 3 Earth clamps MT-817-C 3 clamps CATU MT-814/2 1 MT-840/1 | 3 cables 50 mm2 1 earth cable 25 mm2 |
♦ Portable earthing kits used with CATU CE-4-21-C insulating stick (up to 90kV) – – generally used to provide short circuiting and earthing on power systems up to 66kV.
All following images courtesy: Murray Jones.

Tower transfer to allow for structural work to high voltage overhead lines


Hanging 600mm rollers to tension string OPGW using existing earth wire as the draw wire

400kV live line insulator wash

Overhead Line Equipment Distributed by Thorne & Derrick


