NRS018 5
NRS018 5
1. Copyright
This standard is available to staff members of companies that have subscribed to the
complete collection of SANS standards in accordance with a formal copyright
agreement. This document may reside on a CENTRAL FILE SERVER or INTRANET
SYSTEM only. Unless specific permission has been granted, this document MAY NOT
be sent or given to staff members from other companies or organizations. Doing so
would constitute a VIOLATION of SABS copyright rules.
2. Indemnity
The South African Bureau of Standards accepts no liability for any damage whatsoever
than may result from the use of this material or the information contain therein,
irrespective of the cause and quantum thereof.
UDC 621.315.682
ICS 29.100 NRS 018-5:1996
ISBN 0-626-10533-1 First edition
N R S
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COPYRIGHT RESERVED
1 NRS 018-5:1996
Contents
Page
Foreword ............................................................................................................... 2
Introduction ............................................................................................................ 3
1 Scope ............................................................................................................... 5
4 Requirements ..................................................................................................... 7
5 Tests
6 Marking/packing/selection/documentation ............................................................. 30
Annexes
NRS 018-5:1996 2
Foreword
This part of NRS 018 has been prepared on behalf of the Electricity Suppliers liaison Committee (ESLC)
and approved by it for use by supply authorities and other users, when purchasing current-carrying
connectors and joints for low-voltage overhead powerlines using aerial bundled conductors. It is based
on European specifications.
This part of NRS 018 also includes specifications and test procedures for end caps intended for the
weatherproofing of insulated conductors.
NRS 018 consists of the following parts under the general title Fittings and connectors for low-voltage
overhead power lines using aerial bundled conductors:
Part 2: Strain and suspension fittings for insulated neutral supporting conductors.
Part 3: Strain and suspension fittings for bare neutral supporting conductors.
This part of NRS 018 was prepared by a Working Group which, at the time of publication, comprised the
following members:
A Manufacturers' Interest Group (MIG) was consulted on the contents of this part of NRS 018 and its
comments were incorporated where the Working Group was in agreement. The MIG comprised the
following members:
ISBN 0-626-10533-1
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3 NRS 018-5:1996
The Working Group was appointed by the ESLC which, at the time of approval, comprised the following
members:
Recommendations for corrections, additions or deletions should be addressed to the NRS Project
Manager, c/o SABS, Private Bag X191, Pretoria, 0001.
Introduction
This part of NRS 018 was prepared to establish and promote uniform requirements for current-carrying
connectors and joints for all types of tee-off connections and aerial bundled conductors (ABC), to
enable purchasers to acquire the specified equipment without the need for detailed and extensive
contract documents.
The prevention of corrosion, as a result of water leakage, and the prevention of mechanical damage to
the cable and the connections are of prime importance. To ensure proper quality control of
manufactured components to eliminate the aforementioned problems, type and sample test procedures
based on European standards are included in this part of NRS 018.
The Electricity Suppliers Liaison Committee expresses the wish that, in the national interest and in
support of government policy to foster local manufacture and stimulate export, all purchasers adopt the
recommendations of this part of NRS 018 insofar as their particular conditions will permit. Any
differences between the requirements of this part of NRS 018 and the corresponding purchaser's
requirements should, as far as possible, be clearly indicated in the schedules attached to this part of
NRS 018 and, where appropriate, be submitted for consideration in future revisions of this part of
NRS 018.
Key words
Insulation piercing connectors (IPC); Connectors; Joints; Low voltage; Aerial bundled conductors
(ABC); Lugs, Pin connectors; PG clamps; End caps; Testing; Specifications.
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NRS 018-5:1996 4
5 NRS 018-5:1996
SPECIFICATION
Fittings and connectors for low-voltage overhead power lines using aerial
bundled conductors
1 Scope
This part of NRS 01 8 covers the requirements for the manufacture, testing and supply of current-
carrying connectors and joints for aerial bundled conductors for use on a.c. system voitages up to and
including 1 000 V. Requirements for end caps intended for the waterproofing of insulated conductors
are also included.
The tests prescribed will evaluate the performance of the connectors, joints and end caps and the
associated conductors. These tests are based on the Electricité de France specifications detailed in
annex C.
2 Normative references
The following documents contain provisions which, through reference in this text, constitute provisions of
this part of NRS 018. At the time of publication, the editions indicated were valid. All documents are
subject to revision, and parties to purchase agreements based on this part of NRS 01 8 are encouraged
to investigate the possibility of applying the most recent editions of the documents indicated below.
Information on currently valid national and international standards and specifications can be obtained
from the South African Bureau of Standards.
IEC 695-2-111:1994, Fire hazard testing − Part 2: Test methods − Section Sheet 1, Glow-wire end-
product test and guidance.
BS 3288-1:1973 (1979), Insulator and conductor fittings for overhead power lines − Part 1:
Performance and general requirements.
NRS 018-2:1 995, Fittings and connectors for low-voltage overhead power lines using aerial bundled
conductors − Part 2: Strain and suspension fittings for insulated neutral supporting conductors.
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NRS 018-5:1996 6
3.2 aerial bundled conductors (ABC) (bundle): An aerial cable that consists of cores twisted
together.
3.3 breaking force: The tensile load applied during testing, under which the supporting core finally
breaks or becomes permanently deformed.
3.4 connector: A device that has a barrel or socket at one end or at both ends, for connecting a
conductor to an equipment terminal or for connecting two or more conductors.
3.5 designated range: The range of conductor cross-sectional areas with which the fittings are
intended to be used.
3.6 end cap: A cap that is used to seal the end of an insulated conductor against the ingress of
moisture and that is held in position by elastic forces only.
3.7 insulation piercing connector (IPC): An insulated device that is used for connecting two or
more insulated conductors by piercing the insulation of the conductors.
3.8 joint: A device for joining two conductors together, that might or might not be subject to
mechanical tension.
3.9 lug: A connector that comprises a palm and a connector barrel, for connecting a conductor to an
equipment terminal.
3.10 manufacturer's identification marks: Markings that include the manufacturer's name or trade
mark and the fitting reference.
3.11 parallel groove (PG) clamp: A bolted connector that has parallel grooves and that
accommodates two conductors that could be of similar or of different sizes and materials.
3.12 pin connector: A connector that has a solid cylindrical stub at one end and a connector barrel
at the other end.
3.13 self-supporting ABC: A multicore ABC system in which all cores are under tension.
3.14 service conductor: A branch line from the electrical distribution system to supply one or more
customers.
3.15 supporting conductor ABC: A multicore ABC system that is so installed that only the neutral
conductor is under tension, and that could be insulated or bare.
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7 NRS 018-5:1996
4 Requirements
NOTE 1 The types and quantities of the connectors and joints required will be specified in schedule A.
NOTE 2 The materials and conductor cross-sectional areas will be specified in schedule A.
NOTE 3 The standard with which the ASC or service conductor complies, including the breaking force of the conductors of the
bundle, will be specified in schedule A.
4.1 General
4.1.1 Unless other sizes are specified in schedule A, connectors and joints are required for use with
ABCs that have conductor cross-sectional areas in the range 35 mm2 to 95 mm2, for service conductors
that have cross-sectional areas in the range 6 mm2 to 25 mm2 and for streetlighting conductors that have
cross-sectional areas in the range 1,5 mm2 to 6 rnm2.
The designated range of each type of connector in respect of the main and branch conductors offered
and the fitting reference of every item offered shall be stated in schedule B.
4.1.2 A sample and details of the design of each of the connectors and joints offered, together with
their type test certificates, shall be submitted with the tender.
4.1.3 Connectors and joints shall comply with the requirements of the type, sample and routine tests
specified in the appropriate subclause. Where connectors and joints are intended for use with a range
of ABC sizes, they shall comply with the requirements when tested in conjunction with both the larger
and smaller designated conductor sizes in 4.1.1.
4.1.4 Connectors and joints shall be suitable for use on ABCs of aluminium construction and that have
the specified supporting conductor. (See also note 3 to clause 4.)
4.1.5 Connectors for service conductors shall be suitable for use on conductors of either copper or
aluminium construction. (See also note 3 to clause 4.)
4.1.6 The connectors shall be designed to allow them to be fitted without having to dismantle
components. All segments of the connector shall be held captive when opened for fitting to the
conductors.
4.1.7 All components shall be free from sharp edges, burrs and swarf.
4.1.8 All connectors and joints shall be such that their current-carrying capacity is greater than that of
the larger conductor to which they are intended to be connected.
a) be of adequate strength for the intended application of the connectors and free from any defects that
could impair their performance;
c) be of types that comply with the physical and electrical requirements of this part of NRS 018 and
shall retain these characteristics during the normal life of the connectors, despite exposure to an
outdoor environment;
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NRS 018-5:1996 8
d) be of a quality that ensures that the material does not split and does not deteriorate from its intended
state during the application process;
e) be corrosion resistant;
g) unless otherwise specified in schedule A, be of fire retardant materials that satisfy the glow-wire test
requirements of IEC 695-2-1/1. The glow-wire temperature shall be 550 °C and shall be applied for
30 s.
4.2.1 The bolts used to provide the force to pierce the insulation, when insulation piercing connectors
are being used, shall, unless otherwise specified, include a shear-type tightening torque control feature.
The design torque shall be marked on the connector. The design torque of the shear-head shall not
exceed 20 N.m. The shear-head shall be of the hexagonal type and shall be 13 mm across the flats.
With the shear-head removed, it shall be possible to unscrew the bolts with a standard metric spanner.
4.2.2 The construction of the connector shall ensure that users cannot come into contact with
energized parts when connections are being made to energized conductors.
4.2.3 The connectors shall be designed to exclude moisture from the conductors. If end caps are
required, they shall be attached to the IPC and shall be made of ultraviolet-stabilized material.
4.3.1 The bolts used to provide the contact force, when bolted connectors are being used, shall, unless
otherwise specified, include a shear-type tightening torque control feature. The design torque shall be
marked on the connector. The design torque of the shear-head shall not exceed 20 N.m. The shear-
head shall be of the hexagonal type and shall be 13 mm across the flats. With the shear-hlnad removed,
it shall be possible to unscrew the bolts with a standard metric spanner.
4.3.2 The connectors shall be blue. PG clamps may be left in their natural colour.
4.3.4 When so specified in schedule A, connectors for connecting aluminium conductor to copper
conductor shall have pressure welded copper inserts in the tap-off side.
9 NRS 018-5:1996
4.4 Specific requirements for crimped joints, pin connectors and lugs
4.4.1 Crimped joints shall be of the insulated type or the non-insulated type, as specified in schedule A.
4.4.2 Joints and termination connectors, such as lugs and pins, shall be designed to exclude moisture
from the conductors.
4.4.3 Joints and termination connectors shall be of the compression type and shall be suitable for
crimping.
4.4.4 All tubular compression joints shall have a conductor stop positioned at the centre of the sleeve
barrel.
4.4.5 All compression fittings shall be prefilled with the jointing compound and shall be capped.
4.4.6 Lugs shall be such that they are suitable for use on M12 studs.
4.4.7 Pin connectors shall be of the insulated type suitable for the conductor size ranges given in 4.1.1.
4.4.8 Joints shall comply with the 1" tests of clause 4 or 5, for tensioned or non-tensioned joints
respectively, in accordance with BS 3288-1.
4.5.1 End caps are required to seal the open ends of insulated conductors against water ingress. They
shall be made of a material that complies with 4.1.9.
4.5.2 End caps are required for conductors in the range 35 mm2 to 95 mm2.
4.5.3 End caps shall not require any special tools for installation and shall be held in position by elastic
forces only.
5 Tests
5.1 General
All tests shall be conducted on new equipment and all samples undergoing testing shall be inspected
visually for damage, before the test is carried out. The connectors and joints shall be installed in
accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
Unless otherwise specified, tests shall be conducted on samples selected in accordance with section 5
of SABS 178.
All conductors used in the following tests shall be tested mechanically, to ascertain that the breaking
force is within the limits specified by the manufacturer of the ABC, before any tests are carried out.
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NRS 018-5:1996 10
Tests shall be conducted by, and the results certified by, a test authority that is an organization or a
person approved by the purchaser, and as specified in schedule A. The tests shall be conducted at
an ambient temperature of between 10 °C and 30 °C or as otherwise specified, and at a humidity of less
than 80 %.
Carry out type tests in accordance with the following test procedures on connectors of each type and
size. Type test certificates shall be submitted with the tender documents.
b) after the chamber has reached the preset temperature, put the bolts in the chamber for 1 h;
c) within 1 min of removing the bolts from the chamber, clamp them in a vice to determine the shear
torque for each, using a calibrated torque wrench.
Install two connectors on the tensioned main conductor in the intended way, with a minimum size of
branch conductor in each connector.
Tighten the connectors until the shear-heads break. Record the torque values at which the shear-heads
break, for comparison with the manufacturer's rating.
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11 NRS 018-5:1996
Tension the first branch conductor uniformly to 20 % of its breaking force, in a direction parallel to the
main conductor. No slippage shall occur. Release this tension over as short a period as the test equip-
ment will allow, under controlled conditions. Then reapply the tension. No slippage shall occur. Then
release the tension in the branch conductor.
Repeal the test, using a 35 mm2 main conductor and the minimum size of branch conductor.
Slippage shall not occur on either the branch conductor or the main conductor. Breaking of the main
conductor shall not occur at a load of less than 85 % of the rated breaking force in the case of non-
supporting conductors, or 95 % of the rated breaking force in the case of supporting conductors.
Prepare and test sets of eight specimens for every manufacturing batch as follows:
a) in the case of IPCS, use two connectors for each of the four size combinations given in 5.2.3.2.1;
and
b) in the case of insulated joints, use two connectors for the size combinations given in 5.2.3.2.1(a)
and (d), and four connectors of the size combination given in 5.2.3.2.1(b).
5.2.3.2.1 Install the IPCs and insulated joints in accordance with 5.2.3.1 and the relevant of the following
set of conductor size combinations:
a) the maximum designated size of a main conductor with the maximum size of a branch conductor;
b) the minimum designated size of a main conductor with the maximum size of a branch conductor;
c) the maximum designated size of a main conductor with the minimum size of a branch conductor;
and
d) the minimum designated size of a main conductor with the minimum size of a branch conductor.
5.2.3.2.2 Position the IPC midway on a 1 m length of main conductor and install a 0,5 m length of
branch conductor in the branch connection. Tighten the shear-head bolt until the shear-head breaks. In
the case of insulated joints, use a 0,5 m length of main conductor.
Immerse the assembly in tap water at a temperature of between 15 °C and 30 °C, with the IPC or joint at
a depth of 300 mm and the tree ends of the conductors above the waterline. (Figure 1 illustrates the
case of an IPC.)
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NRS 018-5:1996 12
After 30 min, apply a voltage of 6 kV for 1 min between an electrode in the water bath and:
a) should two connectors from a first set of eight connectors fail by breaking down, then the batch shall
be rejected;
b) it one connector from the first set of eight connectors fails by breaking down, then a second set of
eight connectors shall be selected from the batch and tested. A failure in the second set will
constitute a failure of the batch.
If a batch is failed by the criteria above, re-design shall be necessary before any further testing (for
example electrical ageing, etc.) is undertaken.
5.2.4.2 Introduction
Aging of contacts is simulated by subjecting the connectors to 200 heating and cooling cycles.
When so specified, these thermal cycles are supplemented (for certain types of connectors) with a
series of short-circuits of 1 s duration after the 50th cycle (see figure 8).
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13 NRS 018-5:1996
b) the change in resistance, measured at ambient temperature corrected to 20 °C, of the electrical
contacts as a function of the number of cycles; and
c) the temperature of the connectors during the periods of heating and cooling.
5.2.4.3.1 The connectors are mounted on the conductors in accordance with the manufacturer's
technical specifications.
c) 600 mm between the horizontal plane of the connectors in the first instance and any horizontal
partition above the connectors in the other instance.
a) four identical assemblies, each one consisting of a conductor of cross-sectional area S1, and linear
resistance R1, a connector or joint, a conductor of cross-sectional area S2 and linear resistance R2;
and
The conductors are identified by their cross-sectional area S1 or S2, such that R1 ≤ R2. The linear
resistances R1 and R2 are those provided in the cable manufacturer's specifications. Cross-sectional
area S2 is chosen as the largest conductor specified for that connector.
5.2.4.3.5 Each connector is mounted between two potential measuring points across which the voltage
drop is measured to calculate the resistance.
In the case of stranded conductors, the potential measuring points are so made as to ensure a uniform
distribution of current in each strand of the conductor.
The potential measuring points are placed at a distance z from the extremity of the connector.
The distance z, in millimetres, is given in table 1 as a function of the nominal cross-sectional area of the
conductor, expressed in millimetres squared;
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NRS 018-5:1996 14
1 2
Cross-sectional area S Distance z
2
mm mm
S ≤ 50 150
50 < S ≤ 120 200
The connectors are spaced at a distance D (in millimetres) from one another, where D is equal to 80 √S
with a minimum spacing of 500 mm; and
In the case of connectors used for branches, S is the cross-sectional area of the main conductor.
5.2.4.3.6 A reference conductor is included in the test loop. It has potential measuring points at each
end, and it is stripped of its insulation.
where:
r1 S 2
z1l = z1 × + 5 d1
r 2 S1
z1l = z 2 + 5 d 2
where:
d1 is the diameter of the conductor of cross-sectional area S1, linear resistance R1 and resistivity r1
(see note); and
d2 is the diameter of the conductor of cross-sectional area S2, linear resistance R2 and resistivity r2
(see note);
h is the average length of the current path in the connector, as defined in figures 2(a) and 2(b),
according to the type of connector; and
5d is an equivalent length depending on the cross-sectional area(s) and the construction of the
conductors, in accordance with table 2.
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15 NRS 018-5:1996
For connectors of this type, h is measured between the extremities of the compressions performed on
the conductor.
h = AB + BC + CD
Figure 2(b) − Branch connectors
NRS 018-5:1996 16
1 2
S and conductor type 5d
mm2 mm
4 (stranded) 14
6 (stranded) 17
10 (stranded) 20
16 (stranded) 26
16 (solid) 23
25 (stranded) 32
25 (solid) 29
35 (stranded) 38
35 (solid) 34
50 (stranded) 45
54,6 (stranded) 48
70 (stranded) 54
95 (stranded) 63
The test loop configuration depends upon the type of connector that is being evaluated and on the
cross- sectional area and type of metal or alloy of the conductors.
a) figure 3, for joints of conductors that have the same cross-sectional area and identical linear
resistance;
b) figure 4, for joints of conductors that have different cross-sectional areas and different linear
resistances;
c) figure 5, for connectors where the range of conductors is the same for both main and branch
conductors;
d) figure 6, for connectors where the range of conductors is different for the main and branch
conductors. The main conductor and the branch conductor have different cross-sectional areas and
different linear resistances.
Tests (c) and (d) above are carried out using the larger sizes of conductors specified for the
connectors. The reference conductor for this case is of linear resistance R2 > R1 and of cross-
sectional area S2.
The alternating current used to heat the loop is so regulated that the conductors of the same cross-
sectional areas S2 are at 120 °C ± 2 °C and the conductors of cross-sectional area S1 are held
between 90 °C and 120 C. To obtain these conditions, an impedance adaptor may be used. A dis-
connect point is included between connectors 1 and 2, and 3 and 4 for the measurement of
connector resistance; and
e) figure 7, for connectors with two identical branches, where the main conductor and the branch
conductor have different cross-sectional areas and different linear resistances.
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17 NRS 018-5:1996
The reference conductor for this case is of linear resistance R2 > R1 and of cross-sectional area S2;
four identical lengths are required.
To ensure the equal division of current between the two branch conductors, they should have the same
length, thereby the temperatures are equalized when the heating current is adjusted so that the
reference conductor S2 is at 120 C ± 2 °C and the conductor S1 is between 90 °C and 120 °C.
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NRS 018-5:1996 18
Figure 3 − Test loop for joints of conductors that have the same cross-sectional area and
identical linear resistance
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19 NRS 018-5:1996
Figure 4 − Test loop for joints of conductors that have different cross-sectional areas and
different linear resistances
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NRS 018-5:1996 20
Figure 5 − Test loop for branch connectors where the main conductor and the branch
conductor have the same cross-sectional area and identical linear resistance
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21 NRS 018-5:1996
Figure 6 − Test loop for branch connectors where the main conductor and the branch
conductor have different cross-sectional areas and different linear resistances
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NRS 018-5:1996 22
Figure 7 − Test loop for connectors with two branches where the main conductor and the
branch conductors have different cross-sectional areas and different linear resistances, both
branches being identical
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23 NRS 018-5:1996
The ambient temperature throughout the test is between 10 °C and 30 °C. The test consists of 200
cycles of heating and cooling.
Heating is achieved by a regulated 50 Hz alternating current. During a heating period, the temperature
of the reference conductor is maintained at 120 °C ± 2 °C. The duration of heating is arranged to obtain
equilibrium for 15 min such that the temperature of the connectors does not increase by more than 2 °C
during the 15 min. The temperature of the reference conductor is never allowed to exceed 122 °C. An
increased current may be used at the start of the heating cycle to decrease the heating period.
Following the heating period, the heating current is removed until the temperature of the reference
conductor returns to within 5 °C of the ambient temperature. Forced ventilation may be used to reduce
the cooling time.
Connectors undergo four short-circuits of 1 s each after the 50th cycle (see figure 8).
Before the application of each short-circuit, the connector temperature does not exceed 35 °C.
1 2
Metal of alloy Short-circuit current density
A per mm2 of conductor area
Aluminium 100
Aluminium alloy 95
Copper 160
In the case of connectors that join two different types or sizes of conductor, the short-circuit current
corresponds to the lower value of the two currents in question.
The short-circuit current and time may be adjusted, provided that the following relationships are
satisfied:
I 2 t = constant; and
1 ≤ t ≤ 1,4 s
The temperature measurements are made to an accuracy of ± 0,5 °C, using thermocouples or other
appropriate devices.
Measuring devices are mounted in each connector and are placed in contact with the current-carrying
elements between the two conductors.
A measuring device is placed midway between the potential measuring points of the reference
conductor within the conductor strands.
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NRS 018-5:1996 24
The ambient temperature is measured approximately 200 mm below the horizontal plane of the test loop.
The temperatures of the reference conductor, the connectors and the ambient air are recorded at the
end of the first heating period and after every 25 cycles, until 200 cycles have been completed.
Potential measurements are made when the temperatures of the reference conductor and the
connectors are not more than 5 °C above ambient.
The resistances of the connectors and the reference conductor are calculated from the potential drop
across the two applicable adjacent potential measuring points. These measurements are made in
rotation with a d.c. current that does not exceed 10 % of the value of the heating current.
The voltmeter used in measuring the potential drop has an accuracy of ± 1,5 %. A digital type voltmeter
that is capable of indicating 1 mV would be suitable.
The resistance determinations are performed before the start of the first period of heating, and are
repeated at the end of the cooling period after the 25th cycle and thereafter after every 25 cycles until
the 200th cycle and also before and after the application of the short-circuits (see figure 8).
Rθ
R 20 =
1 + A 20 (θ _
20)
where:
θ is the temperature of the connector or reference conductor at the time of the measurement, in
degrees Celsius; and
For each connector and all measurements in 5.2.4, calculate the resistance ratio K from:
R c20
K =
RR20
where:
The diagrams in figure 8 describe the requirements for the value of the connector temperatures and the
value of K.
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25 NRS 018-5:1996
5.2.4.6.1 Temperatures
For each measurement mentioned in 5.2.4, the temperature of each connector shall not exceed that of
the reference conductor.
In addition, for each connector, the deviation between the temperature θ50, measured at the end of the
50th cycle, i.e. before the application of the short-circuits, and the temperature θ75 measured at the end
of the 75th cycle shall not exceed 10 °C.
Between the 75th cycle and the 200th cycle, no value of the temperature of a connector shall deviate by
more than 10 °C from the value θ75 measured at the end of the 75th cycle of aging.
5.2.4.6.2 Resistances
NOTE The variation of K could be more important than its actual value since K depends on the interpretation of the measurements.
Hence the above will require review as testing progresses.
In addition, at the end of the 50th cycle, the deviation between the values of K measured before the
short- circuits (K1) and after the short-circuits (K2) shall not exceed 0,05.
During the last 150 cycles, no value of K shall deviate by more than 0,05 from the value K2 obtained
after the end of the short-circuit test.
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NRS 018-5:1996 26
Figure 8 − Diagram of test cycle and prescribed conditions for connectors and joints subjected
to short-circuit testing
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27 NRS 018-5:1996
Mount the connectors on conductors as in 5.2.4 but do not install the thermocouples on the connectors.
Subject the connectors to 200 heating and cooling cycles as in 5.2.4. Maintain the temperature of the
reference conductor as in 5.2.4 for 60 min during the heating part of the cycle. No other measurements
are performed on the test loop, nor are any short-circuits involved.
Subject the test samples to the test described in annex A of NRS 018-2.
After testing:
d) the torque required to loosen the mounting boil of the connector shall be not more than 50 % higher
than the maximum rated torque of the shear-head.
Mount the connectors on conductors as in 5.2.4 but do not install the thermocouples on the connectors.
Subject the connectors to 200 heating and cooling cycles as in 5.2.4. Maintain the temperature of the
reference conductor as in 5.2.4 for 60 min during the heating part of the cycle. No other measurements
are performed on the test loop, nor are any short-circuits involved.
Subject the test samples to the test described in annex B of NRS 018-2.
After testing:
d) the torque required to loosen the mounting bolt of the connector shall be not more than 50 % higher
than the maximum rated torque of the shear-head.
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NRS 018-5:1996 28
After the accelerated weathering test, the connectors shall comply with the acceptance criteria of 5.2.5.
After the corrosion test, the connectors shall comply with the acceptance criteria of 5.2.6.
29 NRS 018-5:1996
After the accelerated weathering test, the connectors shall comply with the acceptance criteria in
5.2.5(a), (b) and (c).
Test five end caps each fitted to a 400 mm length of 95 mm2 conductor and five end caps each fitted t a
400 mm length of 35 mm2 conductor.
Install the end caps on the 400 mm lengths of conductor in the intended manner.
Submerge the test samples vertically in a water bath as in 5.2.3, with the end caps at a depth of
300 mm.
After 30 min, apply a voltage of 6 kV for 1 min between the conductor and an electrode in the water
bath, as shown in figure 1.
Test five end caps each fitted to a 400 mm length of 95 m m2 conductor and five end caps each fitted to
a 400 mm length of 35 mm2 conductor.
Install the end caps on the 400 mm lengths of conductor in the intended manner. Subject the test
samples to the test described in annex A of NRS 018-2.
After the accelerated weathering test, the samples are subjected to the waterproof test in 5.5.1 and they
shall comply with the stated acceptance criterion.
This standard may only be used and printed by approved subscription and freemailing clients of the SABS.
NRS 018-5:1996 30
The number of connectors or joints in the sample for visual inspection and verification of the dimensions
and markings shall be 50. If the number of defective specimens in any sample is three or less, the entire
lot shall be accepted. It the number of defective specimens in any sample is more than 10, the entire lot
shall be rejected. If the number of defective specimens is from four to 10, a second sample of 100
connectors or joints shall be selected at random from the lot, excluding the first sample. If, upon
inspection, the number of defective specimens from the first and the second samples together is 10 or
less, the entire lot shall be accepted. If the number of defective specimens is more than 10, the entire lot
shall be rejected.
6 Marking/packing/selection/documentation
All connectors and joints shall be clearly and durably marked with the manufacturer's identification mark
and fitting reference, which shall be described in the tender documentation. They shall also be marked
to indicate the maximum and minimum size of the conductors for which they are intended.
IPC connectors shall be black and connectors for use on bare neutral ABC shall be blue (PG clamps
left in their natural colour are acceptable).
Small quantities of connectors or joints may be packed in sealed plastics bags. Only identical
assemblies or components shall be packed together.
Packing shall be such as to permit easy identification of the components without their removal. Each
package shall indicate the manufacturer's identification mark and fitting reference and the number of
components in the package.
The packing container shall protect the components against corrosion and mechanical damage.
The fittings shall be bulk packed in suitable containers e.g. plastic lined hessian. The net mass in each
container shall not exceed 30 kg. Each container shall bear the following information, on the outside of
the container, in addition to the address of the destination and the gross mass:
Where shipment on pallets is intended, these shall be suitable for handling by reversible fork lift trucks.
This standard may only be used and printed by approved subscription and freemailing clients of the SABS.
31 NRS 018-5:1996
Manufacturers shall provide full instructions, that cover the selection and installation of the connectors or
joints. These instructions shall be provided with each consignment to every destination. These
instructions shall also be stated in schedule B.
6.4 Documentation
6.4.1 When so specified, type tests shall be supplied with the tender, and their certificate numbers shall
be stated in schedule B.
6.4.2 A test certificate stating the result of 5.6 shall be supplied in duplicate with each consignment to
every destination.
NRS 018-5:1996 32
Annex A
(informative)
A.1 General
A model form is given in annex B to provide the purchaser with a convenient aid to purchasing. The use
of this form is intended to obviate the need for preparing a detailed technical specification.
The purchaser need only specify compliance with this part of NRS 018, provide the tenderers with
details of his particular requirements, and set out the information he requires the tenderer to provide, as
indicated below.
A.2 Schedules
The model form in annex B provides the purchaser with examples of a schedule A and a schedule B. In
his enquiry, the purchaser should provide his own schedule A and schedule B, based on these
examples.
A.2.1 Schedule A
Schedule A lists the requirements to be specified by the purchaser in enquiries and orders. These
requirements include references to the relevant subelauses in this part of NRS 01 8, to assist in
compiling the schedules.
Where the text of any referenced standard stipulates that the purchaser shall indicate his requirements,
these requirements should also be specified in schedule A.
The purchaser should set out his particular requirements and choices in his own schedule A.
A.2.2 Schedule B
The purchaser should draw up his own schedule B (based on the schedule B in the model form) and
request the tenderer to fill in this schedule. By doing this, the tenderer will be stating compliance with this
part of NRS 018 and will provide the information the purchaser has requested.
NOTE 1 Where this part of NRS 018 allows the purchaser to make a choice, the example of schedule A (in the model form in
annex B) lists the preferred items/values/quantities. In the interests of standardization, purchasers are encouraged not to deviate
from these preferences.
NOTE 2 When preparing his own schedule A and schedule B from the examples in the model form in annex B, the purchaser need
include only the items he considers to be relevant or necessary.
NOTE 3 These schedules, when completed, become normative annexes to the enquiry specification.
A purchaser will furthermore need to indicate the commercial conditions applicable and draw up a price
schedule. Requirements for delivery, storage, packing and marking should be attended to in this part of
the enquiry.
This standard may only be used and printed by approved subscription and freemailing clients of the SABS.
33 NRS 018-5:1996
Annex A
(concluded)
This part of NRS 016 does not cover the purchaser's possible requirements in respect of quality
assurance, quality control, inspections, etc., since each purchaser needs to consider the criticality of
the application of each component, his own policy towards these matters, etc. Purchasers are referred
to SABS ISO 9001, SABS ISO 9002 and SABS ISO 9003 for guidance.
A.5 Testing
Attention should be paid to the subject of tests and the related costs. Tests should be carried out by a
competent party and tenderers should be requested to provide assurances on this point. Price
schedules should be so drawn up and covering letters so worded that the costs of all services such as
tests, delivery and spares are declared and allowed for in the tender.
Before type tests and routine tests are carried out an samples, the number of samples used and the
frequency of sampling should be agreed upon with the supplier.
This part of NRS 018, as has been indicated, is based on a set of defined standards which may have
been revised or amended. Most purchasers would, in principle, wish to employ the latest standards. The
recommended approach to this question is to secure an undertaking from a supplier to review the latest
versions and amendments and to incorporate these where possible and agreeable to both parties. A
blanket commitment to work to the "latest" versions of standards creates legal difficulties of interpretation
and risks for both parties and should be properly assessed. This invariably cannot be done in the time
available.
This standard may only be used and printed by approved subscription and freemailing clients of the SABS.
NRS 018-5:1996 34
Annex B
(informative)
35 NRS 018-5:1996
Annex B
(continued)
NRS 018-5:1996 36
Annex B
(continued)
37 NRS 018-5:1996
Annex B
(continued)
NRS 018-5:1996 38
Annex B
(continued)
39 NRS 018-5:1996
Annex B
(continued)
NRS 018-5:1996 40
Annex B
(continued)
41 NRS 018-5:1996
Annex B
(concluded)
NRS 018-5:1996 42
Bibliography
The following documents were a source of reference in compiling this part of NRS 018. They do not
constitute provisions of this part of NRS 018 but are referenced for further information.
HN 20 E71:1991, Accessories of insulated cables for low-voltage overhead lines and service lines
Corrosion test
HN 33 E61:1986, Materials for connectors for low-voltage aerial systems − Electrical ageing test
HN 33 E60:1988, Weathering ageing test applicable to synthetic materials and to electrical distribution
equipment exposed to solar radiation and to weathering.
HN 33 S63:1988, Insulation piercing connectors for low-voltage overhead systems with insulated
aerial bundled conductors.
HN33 S66.1985, Crimp connection devices for low-voltage overhead networks with insulated bundled
conductors.
Eskom specification
SABS specifications
SABS 1418-2:1986, Aerial bundled conductor systems − Part 2: Assembled insulated conductor
bundles.
SABS ISO 9001:1994, Quality systems − Model for quality assurance in design, development,
production, installation and servicing.
SABS ISO 9002:1994, Quality systems − Model for quality assurance in production, installation and
servicing.
SABS ISO 9003:1994, Quality systems − Model for quality assurance in final inspection and test.
sabs pta