JP4824570B2 - Collet-type connecting member for use with aluminum conductor composite core reinforced cable - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an apparatus and method for connecting and terminating electrical cables. More particularly, the present invention relates to a fixture that can connect two composite core cables with a load bearing composite core, and a fixture that can terminate or terminate the composite core cable.

  The 2003 blackout that affected the United States, the United Kingdom, and France revealed that there was an urgent need to renovate the global grid. An accurate and quick solution is to replace existing wires with composite core reinforced cables. An example of a composite core reinforced cable, ie an ACCC cable, is disclosed in International Application No. PCT / US03 / 12520. The contents of the international application specification are disclosed in this specification. In the following, an ACCC cable will be described, which is used to represent all composite core cables. These ACCC cables provide significantly increased current capacity. In some situations, the ACCC cable may increase the current capacity by 100%. Replacing old-style cables with ACCC cables is undoubtedly an effective way to enhance the functionality of the world's power transmission and distribution systems. Replacing older cables requires an overhead line worker to install an ACCC cable or other composite core cable over the existing structure.

  Unfortunately, there are currently no methods or devices for installing these cables. In order to install an ACCC cable, the overhead worker must be able to connect the cables together and attach the cable to a utility pole or structure using a termination member. Unfortunately, existing devices and methods are not effective.

  The cable length per strand of an ACCC cable can span thousands of feet (eg, about 1.5 km for 5000 feet), but the grid can be hundreds of miles (eg, about 804.5 km for 500 miles) or several A cable of 1000 miles (eg, about 8045 km for 5000 miles) is required. In order to span these distances, the overhead worker must connect or connect two shorter cables. The connection member functions both as a mechanical link that holds the two ends of the cable together and an electrical connection that allows current to flow over or through the connection member. Fulfill.

  In the case of a conventional aluminum conductor steel reinforced cable (ACSR), the cable is formed from a set of twisted aluminum conductors wound around a steel wire core. The aluminum conductor mainly functions as an electric conductor, and the steel core is a member that imparts strength. The aluminum conductor is somewhat loaded and the steel core helps to conduct some current. In order to splice the two ACSR cable lengths, the overhead wire operator uses a device such as a full tension compression splice. Hubbell / Fargo Manufacturing, located in Poughkeepsie, New York, USA, sells these types of connecting members. In this device, the overhead line worker removes the aluminum from the steel core. A sleeve or die is placed on the exposed end of the core. The overhead line worker will leave a small portion of the steel core exposed beyond the end of the sleeve. A compression vise is used to secure the sleeve to the steel core. Both cable sleeves and steel cores are then inserted into the second tubular body. The tubular body has a sufficient length to cover the sleeve and a portion of the aluminum conductor that has not been removed. This tubular body is also crimped by a compression vise. These elements form a compression fitting that holds both the aluminum conductor and the steel core.

  This method works well with ACSR cables, but is not effective with ACCC cables. First, the aluminum conductor is not a load bearing member in the ACCC cable. Therefore, even if the tubular body is crimped to the aluminum conductor, the composite core load bearing member of the two cables is not held together. In addition, the use of a very large crimping force of about 60 ton psi (about 827.4 MPa) can destroy the composite core. Therefore, the method used in the ACSR cable has a problem that a good mechanical connection cannot be obtained between the load bearing members of the ACCC cable.

  In the composite material industry, composite members are often bonded. A special glue, epoxy, or adhesive is applied to the composite and the member that is affixed to the composite. Unfortunately, several problems arise with these adhesive bonds. First, the adhesive does not disperse the force applied to the joint portion over the entire surface of the joint portion. Rather, the force tends to concentrate locally along 1 to 2 inches (2.54 to 5.08 cm) of the joint. The cable is subjected to extremely high tension (up to 60,000 pounds (about 27215 kg or more)), so that the bond is released in a continuous 1 inch (2.54 cm) area and eventually the entire bond is damaged. It is easy. Moreover, there exists a tendency for force to be added to the fiber outside a composite material by the coupling | bonding of a composite member. Thus, as the force increases, the fibers outside the composite do not function, and then the bond does not function. To compensate for this, some composite manufacturers slice the composite at an acute angle with respect to the longitudinal axis. The two sliced composites are then bonded along the cut surface. This bond distributes the force along all the fibers, not just the fibers on the outside of the composite. Unfortunately, in the case of ACCC cables, the composite cores are small and it is very difficult to slice these cores. In addition, bonding of composites requires special tools, materials, and more training than is currently available to overhead workers. Also, the use of adhesives in the art is difficult due to environmental contaminants such as moisture, dust and other substances in the air that can affect the proper mixing and preparation of the adhesive.

  In order to perform cable termination processing, the overhead wire operator usually installs a termination member. For the installation of the termination member, the same apparatus and method as the connection member are used in the industry. Therefore, a problem similar to the problem described above also occurs in the termination member.

  Accordingly, there is a need for cable connection members for ACCC reinforced cables and other composite core cables, and cable termination members for these composite core cables.

  The ACCC reinforced cable provides excellent properties for utilities or power suppliers. Increased current capacity can be obtained by using an ACCC cable. Because of the advantages of ACCC cables, utilities are turning to ACCC reinforced cables to renew and improve aging transmission and distribution cables. Unfortunately, methods and systems for installing these cables have not yet been created. The present invention provides a collet-type fixture for connecting two ACCC cables and for terminating an ACCC cable. The present invention also provides a method for connecting and terminating an ACCC cable.

  In one embodiment, the present invention discloses a collet-type fitting for an aluminum conductor composite core reinforced cable having a composite core surrounded by a conductor. The collet-type fixture is capable of compressing the collet with a collet having at least one lumen for receiving the composite core of the cable and a shape that substantially matches the collet. A collet housing coinciding with the collet having an opening for exposing the at least one lumen so that the collet can receive a composite core of a cable; and coupled to the collet housing And a compression element for compressing the collet in the collet housing and applying compression force and friction force to the composite core of the cable by the compression.

  In accordance with the present invention, the collet-type fixture uses a collet in the collet housing or an assembled collet assembly to hold the composite core. The composite core cable can remove the aluminum conductor to obtain the best connection between the collet and the composite core that is the load bearing member of the cable. After the composite core is inserted into the collet assembly, the collet can be pressed against the composite core using a compression element. By thus “pre-attaching” the collet to the core, the collet assembly can have an initial gripping force. In a preferred embodiment, the threaded portion of the eyebolt or other termination component can be inserted deeply into the collet housing, thereby contacting the upper surface of the collet itself. Since the threaded portion of the eyebolt or other device first makes contact, a sufficient initial gripping force can be established by the continuous torque force of the threaded component. The range of torque values required is 50-250 ft-lb (about 6.913-34.564 kg · m), but more preferably 75-100 ft-lb (about 10.369-13.825 kg · m). ). As the collet moves further within the collet housing, the collet housing shape increases the collet compression force. These compressive forces form a very high frictional connection between the collet and the composite core. The friction connection holds the composite core against the collet. The compression fitting can be covered with an aluminum housing to pass current over the connecting member. This compression fixture allows for good mechanical coupling and electrical connection.

  The present invention further discloses a method of connecting a first aluminum conductor composite core reinforced cable and a second aluminum conductor composite core reinforced cable each having a composite core surrounded by a conductor. The method includes the steps of exposing the composite core of the first cable, exposing the composite core of the second cable, and inserting the composite core of both cables into separate collet-type fixtures. The process further includes inserting a composite core into the collet, compressing the collet to hold the composite core by friction, and connecting to each collet-type fixture to hold the collet-type fixture together Connecting the tools.

  In another embodiment, the present invention further discloses a method of terminating an aluminum conductor composite core reinforced cable having a composite core surrounded by a conductor. According to the present invention, the termination method includes a step of exposing the composite core of the cable, and a step of inserting the composite core of the cable into the collet-type terminal fixture, wherein the insertion step inserts the composite core into the collet. Further comprising the steps of: compressing the collet to hold the composite core by friction; connecting the connector to the collet-type termination fitting; and structuring the connector to physically terminate the termination member Attaching to an object.

  The termination member utilizes the same type of apparatus and method. The termination and connection members and other features of the present invention are best understood by referring to the detailed description of the invention in light of the accompanying drawings.

  For clarity, each figure includes symbols, and these symbols follow common nomenclature. The code has three or four digits, and the first one or two digits represent the drawing number in which the code is first used. For example, the code used first in FIG. 1 is a number such as 1XX, and the code used first in FIG. 5 is a number such as 5XX. The second two numbers represent specific elements in the figure. One element in FIG. 1 is represented by 101 and another element is represented by 102. Similar symbols used in other figures represent identical elements. For example, reference numeral 102 in FIG. 3 is the same as the element shown in FIG.

(Best form)
The present invention relates to a collet-type fixture used to connect and terminate the ACCC reinforced cable 100. The collet-type fixture can join the composite cores 101 of the ACCC cable 100 together. In addition to joining the composite cores 101 together, the connection member must electrically connect two or more ACCC reinforced cables 100. Alternatively, the collet-type fixture can terminate the ACCC cable. The collet-type fixture can include a collet 202, a collet housing 204, and at least one compression tool 206. In another embodiment, the collet-type fixture 201 can further comprise an aluminum filler sleeve 208, and the collet-type connection member 200 can cover the two collet-type fixtures 201 and the coupler 214. Can be provided. In one embodiment, the compression element 206 and connector 214 are formed from a single member. However, those skilled in the art will appreciate that there are other embodiments in which these elements are formed from separate parts. Each element of the collet-type fixture 201 functions to mate with the composite core 101 of the ACCC cable 100 and compress the collet 202 to hold the composite core 101 by friction. Each element is further described below. Alternatively, each element of the collet fixture 201 functions to terminate the end of the ACCC cable.

In accordance with the present invention, the collet-type fixture 201 holds one or more composite cores using a collet 202 in a collet housing 204 or an assembled collet assembly. The composite core cable 100 can remove the aluminum conductor in order to best connect the collet 202 and the composite core 101 that is the load bearing member of the cable 100. After inserting the composite core 101 into the collet assembly, a compression element 206 can be used to compress the collet 202 against the composite core 101. By “pre-attaching” the collet 202 to the core 101 in this manner, the collet 202 assembly can obtain an initial gripping force. In a preferred embodiment, eyebolts or other termination component threads can be inserted deeply into the collet housing 204 to contact the top surface of the collet 202 itself. Because the threaded portion of the eyebolt or other device contacts first, sufficient initial gripping force can be established by the continuous torque force of the threaded component. The range of torque values required is 50-250 ft-lb (about 6.913-34.564 kg · m), more preferably 75-100 ft-lb (about 10.369-13.825 kg · m). It is. As the collet 202 moves further in the collet housing 204, the shape of the collet housing 204 increases the compressive force of the collet 202. These compressive forces form a very large frictional connection between the collet 202 and the composite core 101. The composite core 101 is held against the collet 202 by frictional connection. The compression fitting 201 can be covered with an aluminum housing 210 so that current flows over the connecting member. This compression fixture allows for good mechanical coupling and electrical connection.
(Mode of Invention)
Hereinafter, the present invention will be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings illustrating exemplary embodiments of the present invention. However, the invention can be implemented in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art. The drawings are not necessarily equal in size ratio, but are created to clearly illustrate the present invention. Throughout this specification, the terms “couple, couples” or “coupled” means physically coupling or coupling two parts.

  The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for connecting two composite core 101 reinforced cables. FIG. 1 illustrates one embodiment of an ACCC reinforced cable 100. FIG. 1 shows an ACCC reinforced cable 100 having a reinforced carbon fiber / epoxy resin composite inner core 104 and a reinforced glass fiber / epoxy resin composite outer core 102, which includes a plurality of reinforced carbon fibers / epoxy resin composite outer cores 102. Aluminum trapezoidal aluminum strand surrounded by a first layer 106A of aluminum conductor wound around the composite core 101, and a plurality of trapezoidal aluminum strands wound around the first aluminum layer 106A Of the second layer 106B. In this description, the connection member fixture and the termination member fixture will be described taking the present embodiment of the composite core 101 cable 100 as an example. However, the connection member fixture and the termination member fixture can be used in any embodiment of the composite core reinforced cable 100.

In order to determine how to connect or terminate, it is necessary to understand the forces exerted on the cable 100. All of the following description applies to an ACCC cable equivalent to a Drake type ACSR cable. For this type of cable 100, the tension that the connecting member must maintain is at least 95% of the rated strength of the cable. For a drake size ACCC cable with a rated strength of 40,000 pounds (about 18144 kg), the lowest 95% is 38950 pounds (about 17667 kg). Accordingly, the connecting member must be able to maintain a tension of about 40,000 pounds (about 18144 kg). In the friction fixture described below, the connecting member or termination member counteracts tension by coupling the fixture and composite core 101 by friction. In order to prevent the composite core 101 from slipping out of the connecting or terminating member, the frictional force must be equal to or greater than the tension. In order to maintain a tension of 40,000 pounds (about 18144 kg), the connecting or terminating member must use a friction force of 40,000 pounds (about 18144 kg) or more. The frictional force is a function of the contact area, the compressive force of the contact portion, and the coefficient of friction. The frictional force is calculated by the following formula.
Friction force = (coefficient of friction) x (compression force) x (area)

As described above, the frictional force must be equal to or greater than the tension load of the cable 100. Therefore, the frictional force needs to be over 40,000 pounds (about 18144 kg). In this embodiment, it is assumed that the friction coefficient is 1. The composite core 101 of the ACCC cable 100 may be able to withstand a compressive force of up to 10,000 pounds (about 4536 kg), but for safety, less 4000 pounds (about 1814 kg) of compressive force can be used. . The contact area is a product obtained by multiplying the length of the composite core 101 inserted into the connecting member or the termination member by the outer periphery of the composite core 101. The circumference of the composite core 101 having an outer diameter of 0.371 inches (about 0.942 cm) is 1.17 inches (about 2.972 cm). The magnitude of the frictional force can be adjusted by increasing or decreasing the length of the composite core 101 being compressed. In this example, the length of the portion being compressed is 12 inches (about 30.48 cm). As an example, a 12 inch (30.48 cm) composite core 101 having a circumference of 1.17 inches (about 2.972 cm) is 2850 pounds (about 1293 kg) to obtain a frictional force of 40,000 pounds (about 18144 kg). Will need to be compressed. Those skilled in the art will understand how to use these equations to determine how to modify the termination and connection members according to the present invention. In preliminary tests, connecting members of the present invention having similar dimensions were able to withstand tensions in excess of 42,000 pounds.
(Collet type connecting member)
The present invention relates to several fixtures used to connect the ACCC reinforced cable 100. The main load bearing element of the ACCC cable 100 is a composite core 101. Therefore, it would be beneficial to have a connection device that can hold the composite core 101 of the ACCC cable 100 together. In addition to holding the composite core 101 together, the connection member must allow electrical connection between two or more ACCC reinforced cables 100.
(Collet type fixture)
One embodiment of a collet-type connecting member is shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B. Referring to FIG. 2A, the embodiment of the collet-type connection member 200 includes two collet-type fixtures 201 connected by a connector 218. In this embodiment, the collet-type fixture 201 can include a collet 202, a collet housing 204, and at least one compression tool 206, but is not limited thereto. In a further embodiment, the collet-type fitting 201 can also comprise an aluminum filler sleeve 208 and the collet-type connecting member 200 comprises an aluminum housing 210 that can cover the two collet-type fittings 201 and the coupling 218. be able to. In the illustrated embodiment, the compression element 206 and connector 218 are formed from a single member. However, one skilled in the art will recognize that in other embodiments, these elements are formed from separate parts. The elements of the collet-type fixture 201 function to mate with the composite core 101 of the ACCC cable 100 and compress the collet 202 to hold the composite core 101 by friction. Each element is further described below.

  FIG. 2B is an enlargement of FIG. 2A showing one embodiment of a portion of a collet-type fixture 201 comprising a collet 202, a collet housing 204, a lumen 214 for receiving the core 101, and a compression element 206. FIG. FIG. In FIG. 2B, the core 101 has been inserted into the lumen 214.

  As described herein, the collet 202 is a structure that can be compressed with high pressure. In one embodiment, the collet 202 may be a conical member having a lumen 214 concentrically oriented along the length of the collet 202. Lumen 214 receives composite core 101. The outer diameter of the collet 202 increases from the first end 220 to the second end 222 of the collet 202, but the inner radius of the lumen 214 remains constant. While the collet 202 is preferably formed from two or more parts, the collet 202 can be formed from one or more parts. The outer gradient, i.e. the change in diameter, from the first end 220 to the second end 222 of the collet 202 must not be too shallow or too steep. If the gradient is too shallow, the collet 202 may be forcibly pulled out of the end of the collet housing 204. Similarly, if the slope is too steep, the collet 202 does not slide within the collet housing 204 and does not apply increasing compressive force to the composite core 101. In the illustrated embodiment, the collet 202 has an outer radius of 0.326 inches (0.83 cm) at the first end 220 and an outer radius of 0.525 inches (1.33 cm) at the second end 222. Has a radius.

  The collet 202 can be formed from any material that can be shaped into a suitable shape and that can be used to apply a compressive force to the composite core 101. Examples of such materials can include, but are not limited to, compressible semi-malleable metals or polymers. One embodiment of the collet 202 is formed of aluminum. Aluminum can be shaped around the composite core 101 during compression but is malleable enough to maintain the overall shape with the collet housing 204.

  Collet 202 provides a lumen 214 for receiving and connecting composite core 101. Lumen 214 provides a female end that matches the shape of composite core 101. In one embodiment, lumen 214 and composite core 101 are fully mated. Basically, the inner shape and dimensions of the lumen 214 are substantially the same as the outer shape and dimensions of the exposed composite core 101. FIG. 2 shows the collet 202, the corresponding lumen 214, and the composite core 101 having a generally circular cross section. However, the composite core 101, the collet 202, and the lumen 214 may have other cross-sectional shapes.

  In the illustrated embodiment shown in FIGS. 2A-2B, the lumen 214 extends concentrically within the collet 202 along the length of the collet 202. In the illustrated embodiment, two separate collets 214 are shown, and a connector 218 connects / disconnects the two collets 202.

  Another element of the collet fixture 201 is a collet housing 204 that matches the collet shape. The collet housing 204 can have a shape that mirrorly matches the shape of the collet 202 so that the collet 202 can be fitted into the collet housing 204 and the collet 202 can be compressed. In general, when mirrored, the overall internal shape of the collet housing 204 substantially matches the external shape of the collet 202. In the illustrated embodiment, as shown in FIG. 2B, the collet housing 204 is a tubular body having a funnel-shaped inner surface. However, the present invention is not limited to this embodiment, and assumes any shape that can enclose the collet 202. As described in more detail below, as the collet 202 slides further into the collet housing 204, the collet housing 204 further compresses the collet 202 around and on the composite core 101. Therefore, when the collet 202 is pressed against the inner wall of the collet housing 204 and compressed, the collet housing 204 must maintain its shape.

  The collet housing 204 can be formed of various rigid materials. Materials include, but are not limited to, composites, graphite, hardened metals, or other materials with sufficient rigidity and strength. In the illustrated embodiment, the collet housing 204 is formed from steel. The collet 202 and the collet housing 204 must be formed of a material that can slide within the collet housing 204 without being caught.

  The collet housing 204 includes an opening so that the collet 202 can receive and connect the composite core 101. The illustrated embodiment has a first open end 226 and a second open end 224. Further, the collet housing 204 can be coupled to a compression element 206. The coupling with the compression element 206 allows the initial compression of the collet 202 against the composite core 101 by pushing the collet 202 into the collet housing 204.

  The compression element 206 is an instrument or means for compressing the collet 202. Accordingly, the compression element 206 is any mechanical instrument, electrical instrument, pneumatic instrument, or other instrument that can compress the collet 202. In the illustrated embodiment, the compression element 206 is a compression screw 206. In this embodiment, the collet housing 204 includes a series of grooves 203 for receiving a threaded compression screw 206. However, in other embodiments, the compression element 206 can use other instruments or openings for compressing the collet 202. In the following, the compression element 206 will be described as a compression screw 206, but the invention is not limited to that embodiment.

  Referring to FIG. 2A, the compression screw 206 is a screw element that is engageable with the groove 203 of the collet housing 204. Although the screw 206 is illustrated, the compression element 206 may be a nut that is a separate element from the connector 218. The compression screw 206 or the compression nut 206 can have a hollow center or a hollow cavity. This hollow center or hollow cavity allows the composite core 101 to pass inside the compression nut 206 or enter the compression screw 206. The compression screw 206 can have a series of threads along the outer surface of the screw 206. These threads allow screws 206 to be attached to a collet housing 204 having corresponding grooves 203 along the inner surface. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the thread on one side of the connector 218 can rotate in the opposite direction (counterclockwise) to the thread on the other side of the connector 218. This configuration of threads allows the connector 218 to be screwed into both collet-type fixtures 201 simultaneously. By tightening the compression screw 206, a compressive force is applied to the collet 202. By this compressive force, a compression friction region where the collet 202 and the composite core 101 come into contact with each other is generated. The frictional contact region extends along the length of the lumen 214 and the composite core 101 disposed within the lumen 214. The composite core 101 is held by the collet 202 by the compression force and the friction force. The lumen edge at the first end 220 may be chamfered or have a bevel to prevent any force from concentrating on the end of the collet 202.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the composite core 101 is pulled in the direction of the arrow 302 by the tension of the cable 100. A friction region is formed along the lumen 214 between the composite core 101 and the collet 202. Since the composite core 101 is pulled in the direction of the arrow 302 due to the tension, the composite core 101 connected to the collet 202 by the contact friction region further pulls the collet 202 into the collet housing 204 as indicated by the arrow 304. Due to the conical shape of the collet 202 and the funnel shape of the collet housing 204, the volume in the collet housing 204 decreases in the direction of arrow 304, thereby generating an increased compressive force on the composite core 101. Therefore, the compression force increases in proportion to the increase in tension, and the friction force increases in proportion to the increase in compression force. The increased friction force ensures that the composite core 101 does not slip out of the collet 202 when the tension increases.

  Another element that can be a component of the collet fixture 201 is an aluminum filler sleeve 208. The aluminum filler sleeve 208 can be inserted between the aluminum housing and the aluminum conductor 106 of the ACCC cable 100. When the collet housing 204 and the collet 202 require an outer diameter larger than the outer diameter of the ACCC cable 100, the aluminum filler sleeve 208 is necessary. Because the collet housing 204 has a larger outer diameter, the collet 202 can be steeper and less likely to be pushed out of the collet housing 204 when retracted into the end of the collet housing 204. The aluminum filler sleeve 208 can have any shape that connects the aluminum housing 210 and the ACCC cable 100. In the illustrated embodiment, the aluminum filler sleeve 208 is a tubular body. The aluminum filler sleeve 208 can be formed of any conductive material. In the illustrated embodiment, the aluminum filler sleeve 208 is formed of aluminum to match the conductor strand 106 and the aluminum housing 210 that surround the ACCC cable 100. The aluminum filler sleeve 208 allows current to flow through the aluminum filler sleeve 208 and into the aluminum housing 210 and then into the next cable 100. The aluminum filler sleeve 208 can be crimped to the cable 100 with a force that does not damage the composite core 101 using standard crimping techniques.

  The collet-type fixture 300 may also include an aluminum housing 210. Aluminum housing 210 refers to any structure that functions as an electrical jumper between first cable 100a and second cable 100b. The aluminum housing 210 conducts current from one cable 100 to another. In one embodiment, the aluminum housing 210 may be a cable 100 that is crimped to the conductor 106 of the first cable 100a and the conductor 106 of the second cable 100b. In the illustrated embodiment, the aluminum housing 210 is slidable over the entire connecting member and is a hollow separate that can contact the conductors 106 of both the first cable 100a and the second cable 100b. It is a cylindrical body or a tubular body. The aluminum housing 210 can be any conductive material that allows current to pass from the first cable 100a over the connecting member 200 to the second cable 100b. In the illustrated embodiment, the aluminum housing 210 is formed of aluminum, similar to the aluminum housing of the conductor strand 106 of the ACCC cable 100. The aluminum housing 210 can be crimped to both the first cable 100a and the second cable 100b with a force that does not damage the composite core 101 using standard crimping techniques. This embodiment of the aluminum housing 210 is shown in FIG. 2, but this is only shown by way of example.

The aluminum housing 210 can have various cross-sectional areas. In one embodiment, the cross sectional area of the aluminum housing 210 exceeds the cross sectional area of the conductor 106 of the cable 100 at some point along the length of the aluminum housing 210. For example, the cross-sectional area of the aluminum housing 210 can be twice the cross-sectional area of the cable conductor 106. By increasing the cross-sectional area of the aluminum housing 210, the operating temperature of the aluminum housing 210 can be kept lower than that of the cable conductor 106. This lower temperature protects the collet 202 and other parts of the collet-type fixture 201 from damage due to high operating temperatures.
(Method of connecting two ACCC cables)
One embodiment of a method for connecting two ACCC cables 100 is described below. First, by removing the conductor 106 covering the composite core 101, the composite core 101 of the first cable 100a and the second cable 100b can be exposed. The conductor 106 can be removed by a removing tool. These tools and methods for bare wires are well known to those skilled in the art and will not be described further.

  The collet 202 can be inserted into the collet housing 204 and the aluminum filler sleeve can slide over the conductors of each cable 100. The aluminum housing 210 can also slide over one of the cables 100. This step needs to be completed before connecting the collet-type fixtures 201 together. When the fixtures 201 are coupled together, the only way to mount the aluminum housing 210 is to slide the aluminum housing 210 over the entire length of one of the cables 100 until it reaches the connecting member. However, in another embodiment, the aluminum housing 210 can be placed on the connecting member later in the process.

  The composite core 101 can then be inserted into the lumen 214 of the collet 202. In order to insert the composite core 101, it is necessary to slide the core 100 into the respective lumens 214. The core 100 may not reach the end of the collet 202, or may extend beyond the end of the collet 202.

  The collet 202 is compressed so that it can be fitted and frictionally retained on the composite core 101. A compression element 206 is used to press the collet 202 into the collet housing 204. In the illustrated embodiment, the compression screw 206 is screwed into the receiving thread 203 of the collet housing 204 and tightened (512), pushing the collet 202 further into the collet housing 204. The collet 202 is tightened around the composite core 101 along the length of the composite core 101 inserted into the collet 202. The screw 206 may be screwed into the collet housing 204 before connecting the composite core 101 to the collet 202. Next, the collet 202 applies a compressive force to the composite core 101 of each cable 100.

  In one embodiment, an aluminum filler sleeve 208 can be disposed between the aluminum housing 210 and the cable conductor 106. Aluminum filler sleeve 208 and aluminum housing 210 may be crimped onto one or both of cables 100. By crimping the aluminum housing 210, the aluminum housing 210 does not move from a predetermined position on the connection member 200. In another embodiment, the aluminum filler sleeve 208 and the aluminum housing 210 can be welded to one or both conductors 106 of the two cables 100. In yet another embodiment, the aluminum filler sleeve 208 and the aluminum housing 210 can be bonded to the cable 100. After attachment, the aluminum housing 210 can conduct current on the connecting member 200 with the help of the aluminum filler sleeve 208.

  The illustrated composite core 101, having a diameter of 0.371 inches (about 9.423 mm), can withstand a compressive force of about 10,000 psi (about 68.95 MPa). When the collet 202 is compressed by the compression screw 206, the compressive force must be below the compression limit of the composite core 101. Therefore, the collet 202 needs to be compressed at a value lower than about 10,000 psi (about 68.95 MPa). In the illustrated embodiment, the collet 202 is compressed at 4000 psi (about 27.58 MPa) against the connecting member 200 on the ACCC cable 100 instead of a drake type ACSR conductor. These calculations are given as examples only, but usually follow the calculations described above.

  The electrical cable 100 must be able to maintain proper tension. The wire tension prevents dripping. Typically, most drake ACSR cables have a tension of about 31000 pounds. However, higher tension loads can be used along the connection member 200 in the present invention. The connecting member 200 can handle a tension of about 43,000 pounds. The resulting higher numerical value effectively increases the safety factor. Further, when the composite core 101 starts to slide from the connection member 200 and the collet 202 is further drawn into the collet housing 204, the tension of the collet-type connection member 200 increases.

The present invention contemplates other configurations of the elements described above, and these configurations are included in the present invention. Furthermore, the present invention can add other elements to the connecting member 200, which can also be included in the present invention.
(Terminal fitting)
The present invention also relates to a termination member 400 as shown in FIG. 4 that is used to terminate the ACCC reinforced cable 100 described herein. As described, the main load bearing element of the ACCC cable 100 is the composite core 101. Therefore, it is beneficial to have a termination member 400 that can hold the composite core 101 of the ACCC cable 100. The termination member 400 is similar to the connection member fixture 200 and functions similarly. Those skilled in the art will recognize that similarity and how to modify the collet-type fixture 201 to function with the termination member 400. Therefore, although the collet-type fixture 201 is related to the termination member 400, the description thereof will be omitted, and differences between the connection member 200 and the termination member 400 will be described below.

  One embodiment of a collet-type termination member 400 is shown in FIG. In this embodiment, the collet-type termination member 400 can include, but is not limited to, a collet 202, a collet housing 204, a connector 404, and at least one compression element 206. In the illustrated embodiment, the compression element 206 and the connector 404 are formed as a single member. In another embodiment, the collet-type termination member 400 can further comprise an aluminum filler sleeve 208 and an aluminum housing 210. These elements of the collet-type termination member 400 mate with the composite core 101 of the ACCC cable 100 to compress the collet 202 so that friction persists on the composite core 101 and secure the termination member 400 to the structure. To work.

  A component of the collet-type termination member 400 may be a connector 404. The connector 404 can be any mechanical instrument that secures the termination member 400 and the cable 100 to a structure. In the illustrated embodiment, the connector 404 is an eyebolt or clevis. In another embodiment, the connector 404 can include, but is not limited to, a hook that can be fitted into the hole, a plate that can be screwed with a set of bolts, and a bolt that can be screwed with a female connector. Is not to be done. Those skilled in the art will recognize the various types of connectors 404 that can be used. In the present invention, all connectors 404 can be incorporated. Hereinafter, although the connector 404 is demonstrated as the eyebolt 402, this description does not limit this invention to the embodiment.

  The eyebolt 402 can be formed with the compression screw 206 and screwed into the collet housing 204. The eyebolt 402 can be incorporated into the mechanical connection with the cable 100 by screwing with the thread of the collet housing 204. Thus, when the eyebolt 402 is secured to the structure, the components that hold the cable 100 are also secured. The eyebolt 402 can be secured to any type of structure. Structures can include, but are not limited to, utility poles, buildings, towers, or substations.

The cable 100 and the collet-type termination member 400 form a cable terminal 400 when fully connected. After forming the cable terminal 400, an electrical jumper 406 can be installed and the jumper 406 is used to connect the electrical circuit to the end user.
(Method of terminating the ACCC cable)
One embodiment of a method for terminating the ACCC cable 100 is described below. First, the composite core 101 of the cable 100 can be exposed by removing the conductor 106 covering the composite core 101. The conductor 106 can be removed by a removing tool. Since these tools and methods for bare wires are well known to those skilled in the art, further explanation is omitted.

  The collet 202 can be inserted into the collet housing 204. The aluminum housing 210 can also slide on the cable 100. In one embodiment, an aluminum filler sleeve may be placed on the cable 100. The connector 404 can be attached to the second end 222 of the collet housing 204. The connection can be made by screwing the connector 404 into the end 222 of the collet housing 204. At this point, preparation for receiving the composite core 101 of the collet 204 is made. The composite core 101 can be inserted into the lumen 214 of the collet 202. In order to insert the composite core 101, it is sometimes necessary to slide the core 100 into the lumen 214 until the core 100 reaches the end of the collet 202.

  The collet 202 is compressed so that it can be fitted and frictionally retained on the composite core 101. A compression element 206 is used to press-fit the collet 202. In one embodiment, the compression screw 206 is screwed into the collet housing 204 and then tightened (914) to press the collet 202. The collet 202 then applies a compressive force to the composite core 101 of the cable 100.

  In one embodiment, the aluminum filler sleeve 208 and the aluminum housing 210 can be slid over the termination member 400. The aluminum filler sleeve 208 and the aluminum housing 210 can be crimped onto the cable 100. By crimping the aluminum filler sleeve 208 and the aluminum housing 210, the aluminum filler sleeve 208 and the aluminum housing 210 are not moved from a predetermined position on the terminal member 400. In another embodiment, the aluminum filler sleeve 208 and the aluminum housing 210 can be welded to the conductor 106. In yet another embodiment, the aluminum filler sleeve 208 and the aluminum housing 210 can be bonded to the cable 100. After installation, the aluminum housing 210 can conduct current on the termination member 400.

  In the illustrated embodiment, the jumper terminal 406 can be attached to the aluminum housing 210. In one embodiment, the jumper terminal 406 can be bolted to the aluminum housing 210. Jumper terminal 406 can also be welded or glued to aluminum housing 210. In yet another embodiment, jumper terminal 406 and aluminum housing 210 are formed as a single piece. Those skilled in the art will recognize other ways of attaching the aluminum housing 210 to the jumper terminal 406. The jumper terminal 406 serves as a connection means between the aluminum housing 210 and the end user.

  After the connector 404 and the core 100 are attached, the termination member 400 can be secured to the structure. Fixing the termination member 400 can include sliding the eye or clevis of the eyebolt 404 over the hook. The structure can be a utility pole or a building. In one embodiment, the eye is slid over the hook and the jumper terminal 406 is connected to a wire that feeds nearby buildings. Those skilled in the art will recognize other structures to be secured and other ways of performing such attachments.

  In order to replace an existing power transmission cable, the overhead worker must be able to connect the cables together and attach the cable to a utility pole or structure using termination members. According to the embodiment of the present invention, cable connection and termination processing can be performed.

The perspective view of the composite core reinforcement | strengthening cable in one Embodiment. Sectional drawing of the collet type connection member in one Embodiment of this invention and the element corresponding to this. FIG. 2B is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of the collet-type fixture shown in FIG. 2A and elements corresponding thereto. 1 is a perspective view of a collet and a collet housing according to the present invention. FIG. Sectional drawing which shows some collet type | mold termination members and one of the element corresponding to this in one Embodiment of this invention.

Claims (18)

A collet-type connecting member for connecting a first aluminum conductor composite core reinforced cable and a second aluminum conductor composite core reinforced cable each having a composite core surrounded by a conductor,
(A) Two collet-type fixtures, each fixture being
(I) a collet consisting of one or more parts to form a frustoconical shape, the frustoconical forms an outer slope to slide within collet housing, the collet has a length Sato, extends along the length of the collet and a lumen connecting the composite core of the cable, the lumen has a constant inner radius that is configured to impart a compressive force to the composite core, And a collet designed to form a frictional bond between the composite core and the lumen;
(Ii) A collet housing that receives and compresses the collet, and has a first opening end that allows the collet to be fitted into the collet housing, and a second inner diameter that is smaller than the first opening end. possess an open end of the collet to have a inner surface forming a funnel shape which matches in mirror image to the outside of the slope of the collet to be slidable into the collet housing, and the collet Pillow grayed,
(Iii) A compression tool connected to the collet housing, the compression tool compresses the collet inside the collet housing, and when the collet is compressed, compression force and frictional force are applied to the composite core of the cable. Ingredients
Two collet-type fixtures comprising:
(B) A connecting member comprising: a connecting tool for connecting two collet-type mounting tools ; The collet-type connecting member according to claim 1, wherein the collet housing is a tubular body. The collet-type connecting member according to claim 1, wherein the collet housing is formed of steel. The collet-type connecting member according to claim 1, wherein the compression tool is a compression screw that is screwed into the collet housing, and the collet is compressed when the compression screw is tightened. The collet-type connection member further comprises an aluminum housing coupled to each of the two or more collet-type fixtures to electrically connect the conductors of the first cable and the second cable. The collet-type connecting member according to 1. The collet-type connecting member according to claim 5, wherein the aluminum housing is a tubular body. The collet-type connecting member according to claim 5, further comprising an aluminum filler sleeve inserted between the conductor of the cable and the aluminum housing to ensure that current flows through the aluminum housing. A method of connecting a first aluminum conductor composite core reinforced cable and a second aluminum conductor composite core reinforced cable each having a composite core surrounded by a conductor, comprising:
a) exposing the fiber / reinforced resin composite core of the first cable;
b) exposing the fiber / reinforced resin composite core of the second cable;
c) inserting the composite core of the first and second cables into separate collet-type fixtures, the collet-type fixture comprising one or more parts forming a truncated cone shape, The shape forms an outer gradient to slide within the collet housing, the collet comprising a length and a lumen extending along the length of the collet and connecting with the composite core of the cable, The cavity has a constant inner radius configured to impart compressive force to the composite core and is designed to form a frictional bond between the composite core and the lumen;
      (I) a step of inserting the composite core of each cable into the first and second collets, respectively, wherein each of the first and second collets is connected to the collet housing, and the collet housing receives the collet The collet housing includes a first open end that allows the collet to fit into the collet housing, and a second open end having an inner diameter smaller than the first open end. The collet housing has a funnel-shaped inner surface that mirrorly matches the outer gradient of the collet to allow the collet to slide into the collet housing; and
      (Ii) compressing each collet to hold each composite core by friction;
Inserting a composite core of first and second cables into separate collet-type fixtures, comprising:
d) connecting each of the separate collet-type fixtures with a connector to hold the collet-type fixture;
Including methods. The step of compressing the collet,
  a) screwing a compression screw into the collet housing;
  b) tightening the compression screw to press the collet into the collet housing;
The method of claim 8 comprising: 9. The method of claim 8, wherein connecting the connector further comprises sliding an aluminum housing over a connecting member to conduct electricity from a first cable conductor to a second cable conductor. Method. A connected electrical cable,
  a) a first length of aluminum conductor composite core reinforced cable having a fiber / reinforced resin composite core surrounded by a conductor;
  b) a second length of aluminum conductor composite core reinforced cable having a fiber / reinforced resin composite core surrounded by a conductor;
  c) (i) a first collet-type fixture coupled to a first length of aluminum conductor composite core reinforced cable; (ii) a second coupled to a second length of aluminum conductor composite core reinforced cable. And (iii) a connecting member having a coupling for coupling the first collet-type fixture to the second collet-type fixture.
With
  Each collet type fixture is
    (1) A collet comprising one or more parts forming a frustoconical shape, wherein the frustoconical shape forms an outer gradient to slide within the collet housing, the collet having a length and A lumen extending along the length of the collet and coupled to the composite core of the cable, the lumen having a constant inner radius configured to impart compressive force to the composite core; and A collet designed to form a frictional bond between the composite core and the lumen;
    (2) A collet housing configured to receive the collet, having a funnel-shaped inner surface that mirrorly matches the outer gradient of the collet, and a collet-cable composite core A collet housing having an opening that exposes at least one lumen of the collet so that it can be coupled;
    (3) A compression tool connected to the collet housing, the compression tool compresses the collet inside the collet housing, and when the collet is compressed, compression force and frictional force are applied to the composite core of the cable. Ingredients
A connected electrical cable comprising: The connected electrical cable of claim 11, wherein the collet housing is a tubular body. The connected electrical cable of claim 11, wherein the collet housing is formed of steel. The connected electrical cable of claim 11, wherein the compression tool is a compression screw that is screwed into a collet housing, and the collet is compressed when the compression screw is tightened. The connection of claim 11, wherein the connected electrical cable further comprises an aluminum housing coupled to each collet-type fixture to electrically connect a conductor of the first cable and a conductor of the second cable. Electrical cable. The connected electrical cable of claim 15, wherein the aluminum housing has a cross-sectional area that is greater than a cross-sectional area of a conductor to reduce an operating temperature of a connecting member. The connected electrical cable of claim 15, wherein the aluminum housing is a tubular body. 16. The connected electrical cable further comprises an aluminum filler sleeve inserted between the conductors of the first and second cables and the aluminum housing to ensure that current passes through the aluminum housing. Connected electrical cable.

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