Removal of MDPE Cable Oversheath From 33kV Cables Using Alroc PG Pliers

Published 22 Jun 2018

Alroc PG Pliers

• uploaded by Chris Dodds - Thorne & Derrick Sales & Marketing Manager
  
  

• Information Courtesy: CA3C/2 Relating to General Requirements for 33kV Cable Jointing (Western Power Distribution)

MDPE stands for medium density polyethylene – this material is used principally as a cable sheathing material on larger size conductor cables with higher voltage ratings, such as BS6622 11kV and 33kV power cables.

MDPE cable oversheaths must be removed from medium/high voltage cables with care using depth guarded jointers tools – incorrect use of tooling may cause damage to the underlying copper screen wires thus reducing the cross sectional area of the screen and its ability to carry fault current to which its designed.

Thickness of the oversheath should be of equal thickness at any point within the cable sheath of the MV HV power cable.

This may not always be the case and the use of specialised cable tooling may cause damage to the underlying copper screen wires, it is therefore, advisable to test on a scrap length of cable before jointing commences.

This applies to the installation of cable joints, terminations or connectors when using PG type cable stripping pliers manufactured by Alroc.

Removing Cable Sheath

Removal using the correct size of Alroc PG pliers according to the outside and overall diameter around the MDPE sheath.

1. Adjust the depth of cutting blade in accordance with the thickness of the MV HV cable oversheath, there is a depth variation of 1, 2 or 3; try the depth of cut on the end of the cable or on some spare core
2. Hold the Alroc PG pliers at 90° to the cable and place on the cable oversheath termination mark is, apply a slight pressure to the plier handle and rotate the Alroc pliers through 90°. This will create a full 360° circumferential cut in the oversheath of the 11kV/33kV cable
3. Note – excessive hand pressure on the handles of the Alroc pliers will result in copper wire screen damage. This will place a 360° circumferential cut in the oversheath
4. Remove and turn the stripping pliers so as they are parallel to the cable fit the cable between the support roller and cutting wheel
5. Ensure the cutting wheel is placed to the waste side of the circumferential cut, apply a good pressure to the plier handle and pull the pliers longitudinally towards the cable end
6. Using the claw blades at 90° to the cable, place the top blade into the cut line, apply pressure and pull down and away from the cut line, this will open the oversheath

Should you require any technical support or field demonstration of Jointing Tools to remove the sheath, screen or insulation from LV MV HV cables please do not hesitate to contact Thorne & Derrick.

Alroc Tools – Cable Jointing Tools (MV HV)