
What specific tools are designed for working with advanced conductor types like HTLS (High-Temperature Low-Sag) and composite core conductors?
2025-07-20Working with HTLS and composite core conductors, which are increasingly adopted for their efficiency, requires specialized tools to protect their unique properties:
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Precision Conductor Grips: These grips are engineered with specific jaw designs and materials that provide a secure, non-damaging hold on the outer strands of HTLS and composite conductors, preventing crushing or distortion of the sensitive core.
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Specialized Stringing Blocks with Advanced Linings: Stringing blocks used for these conductors feature linings made from very low-friction, non-abrasive, and often softer materials (e.g., highly optimized polyurethane or HMWPE) to prevent any surface damage or wear during passage.
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Larger Diameter Stringing Blocks: To minimize the bending stress on the conductor's composite core, blocks with significantly larger sheave diameters are employed, ensuring a gentle bend radius.
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Ultra-Sensitive Dynamometers: Given the specific tension requirements of HTLS conductors, highly accurate and responsive dynamometers are used to ensure precise sag and tension control.
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Non-Conductive Anti-Twist Swivels: For conductors that might incorporate internal optical fibers (like OPGW which often uses HTLS technology), swivels are paramount to prevent any torsional stress transfer.
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Dedicated Splicing and Termination Tooling: Tools for splicing and terminating HTLS conductors are highly specialized, often involving cold-shrink or specific compression techniques tailored to the composite core, demanding precision crimpers and preparation tools.
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Infrared Thermometers/Thermal Cameras: While not solely stringing tools, these are crucial during and after installation for monitoring the temperature of HTLS conductors under load, ensuring they operate within design parameters.