What is Aerial bundled conductor (ABC)?

What is Aerial bundled conductor (ABC)?

An Aerial Bundled Conductor (ABC) is an overhead electrical cable made up of several insulated conductors twisted together, which may or may not include a non-insulated conductor. These conductors are commonly made from aluminum or aluminum alloys and are wrapped in insulation materials for enhanced safety. ABCs are designed to transport electricity efficiently across long distances, particularly in situations where underground cables aren't practical or where aerial distribution lines are preferred for ease of installation.

Key Advantages of ABC:

● Enhanced Safety: The insulated conductors help prevent short circuits and reduce the risk of accidental contact with live wires.

● Efficiency: ABCs are more cost-effective and easier to install compared to traditional overhead bare conductors.

● Durability: They are highly resistant to weather-related damages, reducing the risk of downtime or power interruptions due to storms or accidents.

● Ideal for Rural and Urban Areas: Particularly useful in areas where underground cabling is costly or infeasible, ABCs offer a reliable alternative for electrical distribution.

What type of ABC cables are used with insulation piercing connectors?

Insulation Piercing Connectors (IPCs) are commonly used with Low Voltage (LV) and Medium Voltage (MV) ABC cables. IPCs are designed to make secure electrical connections without removing the insulation from the conductors, which is particularly useful in ABC installations.

Low-Voltage (LV) ABCs: Typically used for residential or small-scale commercial applications. These cables are often in the range of 1kV or lower.

Medium-Voltage (MV) ABCs: Used for larger-scale or industrial applications, where the cable systems operate at medium voltages.

How IPCs (Insulation Piercing Connectors) Enhance ABC Cable Installation

Insulation Piercing Connectors (IPCs) play a vital role in the installation and maintenance of ABC systems. These connectors allow for the rapid and secure connection of two or more cables without needing to strip the insulation, preserving the integrity of the cable insulation and ensuring a reliable electrical connection.

How IPCs Work:

● Direct Contact: IPCs are designed to pierce through the insulation of the ABC cables, making direct contact with the inner conductor to establish a strong electrical connection.

● Safety: This process ensures that the cables' insulation remains intact, enhancing the safety of the installation and reducing the risk of electric shocks during and after installation. 

What are the advantages of using IPC with ABCs?

●l Quick and Efficient Installation: IPCs eliminate the need for time-consuming cable stripping, significantly reducing installation time and labor costs.

● Reduced Risk of Cable Damage: No need to strip insulation minimizes the risk of damaging the cable conductors.

● Enhanced Safety: Reduces the risk of electrical shock during installation.

● Improved Reliability: Provides a secure and reliable connection, minimizing the risk of connection failures.

How to install insulation piercing connectors?

1. Safety First: Wear appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), including gloves and safety glasses.

2. Prepare the Cable: Clean the connection point on the cable to remove dirt, grease, or any debris ; Inspect the cable for any damage or defects to ensure a reliable connection.

3. Use IPC Holding Tool JTN-7 to fix ZOP series IPCs: The JTN-7 tool helps secure the ZOP series IPC while ensuring it remains steady during installation.

4. Insert the Cable into the Connector:Insert the prepared cable into the IPC connector body.

5. Tighten the Nut Using a Torque Wrench: Use a torque wrench(JTN-11-13) to tighten the nut of the IPC connector to the specified torque value.

6. Inspect the Connection:Ensure that the shear head nut has broken off, which confirms that the correct torque has been applied.

Jera Line: A Leading Provider of IPC Solutions for ABCs

Jera Line provides a wide range of Insulation Piercing Connectors (IPCs) designed to work with Aerial Bundled Conductors (ABC). With more than 40 models available, Jera Line provides IPCs for both Low Voltage (LV) and Medium Voltage (MV) ABC systems.

● IPC for one core LV ABC

Designed for low-voltage (LV) single-core ABC cables, this IPC ensures a reliable and efficient connection for residential or small-scale industrial installations.

● IPC for MV ABC

Suitable for medium-voltage (MV) ABC systems, these IPCs offer enhanced electrical performance and are ideal for larger-scale applications.

Key Advantages of Jera Line IPCs:

1. Quick and Efficient Installation:

● Time-Saving: The ability to make connections without stripping insulation significantly reduces installation time, saving on both labor and cost.

● No Specialized Tools Required: Installation is simplified because there is no need for tools to strip the cable insulation, making it easier for technicians to work efficiently.

2. Works with Both Copper and Aluminum Cables:

● Jera Line IPCs feature tinned copper-clad aluminum teeth that ensure excellent contact and reliability with both copper (CU) and aluminum (AL) conductors, making them highly versatile for different cable types.

3. Weather Resistance & Durability:

● Designed to withstand harsh environmental conditions, Jera Line IPCs are made with UV-resistant rubber caps and durable polymer materials, ensuring that they can endure extreme weather, including rain, heat, and UV exposure.

4. Rust and Corrosion Prevention:

● The use of stainless steel bolts and washers helps prevent rust and corrosion, ensuring long-lasting performance, even in challenging outdoor environments.

5. Compliant with Industry Standards:

● Jera Line IPCs undergo type testing to ensure they meet the latest international safety and performance standards, including NFC 33-020 and EN 50483. This guarantees that they provide a reliable and safe connection for both residential and industrial applications.

Conclusion:

Aerial Bundled Conductors (ABCs) provide a reliable and cost-effective solution for overhead power distribution, and Insulation Piercing Connectors (IPCs) play a crucial role in optimizing ABC installations. With Jera Line’s IPC solutions, you can achieve quick, safe, and durable connections that enhance the efficiency and safety of your electrical distribution systems.

Whether you’re working on low-voltage residential connections or medium-voltage industrial systems, Jera Line’s IPCs ensure a fast and reliable installation process that meets international standards.

Contact Jera Line today to learn more about our IPC solutions for ABC systems and how we can help you streamline your power distribution projects!