When it comes to terminating cables, stress control is a critical element to ensure reliable and long-lasting performance. Two popular types of cable termination kits are heat shrinkable and cold shrinkable termination kits which both include stress control components, namely the stress control tube and stress cone.
Let's start by discussing the heat shrinkable termination kit. The stress control tube is usually made of high-quality, cross-linked polyolefin material that helps to control electrical stress and reduce the risk of partial discharge. It is designed to be positioned over the cable insulation and provide a smooth and continuous interface with the outer semi-conductive layer.
The stress control tube not only offers electrical stress control but also physical protection to the cable insulation underneath. It protects against mechanical impact, abrasion, and weathering, thus reducing the risk of cable failure due to environmental factors.
On the other hand, cold shrinkable termination kits use a stress cone to control electrical stress. The stress cone is usually made of silicone, which is known for its high-temperature resistance and electrical insulating properties. It is designed to be placed at the end of the cable insulation and create a smooth transition between the insulating layer and the semi-conductive layer.
The stress cone in cold shrinkable termination kits offers better control of electrical stress than the stress control tube in heat shrinkable termination kits. It provides a uniform electric field distribution and reduces the risk of electrical discharge, which is crucial in high voltage applications.
Apart from electrical stress control, the stress cone also provides good sealing performance, which helps to prevent moisture ingress and prolong cable life span.
In conclusion, both heat shrinkable and cold shrinkable termination kits are designed to provide a reliable and long-lasting solution for terminating cables. The stress control components, such as stress control tube and stress cone, are essential to ensure electrical stress control and physical protection for the cable insulation. While heat shrinkable termination kits use a stress control tube, cold shrinkable termination kits prefer a stress cone, both of which are designed to provide optimal electrical performance in different applications.