Defective low-voltage cables are an increasingly common problem. This often leads to the need for laborious and expensive solutions. Lovink Enertech has a solution for disrupted 1 kV branch connections that does not require a replacement cable, which, in turn, limits the trench and saves an extra cable joint.
Excavation activities are the most commonly occurring cause of damage to cables. In the Netherlands, more than 6,000 damage claims were made in 2018, and 90% of these were in low-voltage cables [source: Netbeheer Nederland]. The result? People in the cold, without television, without Internet etc. So, it is important to repair the damage as quickly as possible.
Example of defective branch connection
After the disruption is investigated and the damage is detected, the solutions today usually include cutting a significant portion of cable out of the line. Then new cable is laid and connected to the existing grid using 3 cable joints. This repair installation requires a large trench, a major section of extra cable and, of course, 3 new cable joints.
Sustainable solution
When the disruption involves only the branch joint, and the cores are still intact, then a much less expensive and more sustainable solution is possible. Here, the branch joint is cut out of the line and then the cores are reconnected to one another. After that, the connection is fitted with a Lovink KB outer shell filled with Protolin® resin. The excellent mechanical properties and good bonding characteristics of the resin with the ABS shell parts guarantee the seal and provide optimal protection for the connection.
With this application, one larger cable joint is assembled over the existing connection, which means that new joints and an extra section of cable are not needed. In addition, a much smaller trench is required, limiting the excavation work to a minimum. This time-savings is crucial, especially in cases of disruptions that affect many households.
In short, lower costs, faster installation and satisfied customers. Would you like more information about this application? Please contact one of our specialists.