Cold Shrinkable Joint Tube Usage

Cold shrinkable joint tubes are used in electrical applications to make cable splices and connections. They consist of a tubular sleeve made of silicone rubber, EPDM rubber, or other elastomeric material. Unlike heat shrinkable tubes, cold shrink tubes do not need heat for installation.

Cold shrinkable joint tubes come compressed and pre-stretched on a supporting core. Once the core is removed, the tube contracts and grips onto the cable, creating a tight seal.

Cold shrinkable tubes usually have three sections: a tube section, a stress control section, and a sealing mastic section. The tube section provides electrical insulation and environmental protection to the cable. The stress control section prevents electrical stress concentration and improves the electrical performance of the joint. Meanwhile, the sealing mastic section provides a water-resistant and airtight seal, keeping the cable connected and protected from corrosion.

Cold shrinkable joint tubes are user-friendly and easy to install, making them a popular option in the power distribution industry.

Here are the general steps for installing Cold shrinkable joint tubes:

Choose the appropriate size of the cold shrinkable joint tube for your application and confirm that it is approved for your specific cable.

Unpack the cold shrinkable joint tube and insert the center core.

Slide the cold shrinkable joint tube over the cable or conductor being joined into place.

Remove the center core. The core can be removed by pulling the string or unwinding it depending on the design.

Ensure the tube is evenly distributed on the cable, suitable for the positions of lugs and connectors and making sure the stress cone is fitted properly on the conductor end.

Check if the joint tube is covering the entire cable and leaving no space uncovered.

Confirm the tightness and insulation of the joint tub by checking the manufacturer's datasheet.

Cold shrinkable joint tubes are user-friendly and require no special tools or external heat source. Once you have released the tube, it generally takes 24 to 72 hours for the sealing process to complete itself depending upon the manufacturer. It's always recommended to follow the manufacturer's instructions to ensure the proper installation and optimum performance of the joint.