TE Connectivity (TE)'s Raychem First Aid Connector: From an Idea to the Product - Technical Review

The idea of the First Aid connector was born after the occurrence of the hurricane in the Philippines back in 2013. The power distribution grid was hit hard, and repair it was a top priority. TE’s Engineers brainstormed on a solution to provide temporary connection for overhead lines.  

The energy grid consists mostly either of overhead lines in rural landscapes and power cable in urban districts. Both are complex systems fulfilling several electrical, mechanical and thermal requirements for energy transportation. To create an electrical connection is a difficult and specialized process, taken over by trained and well-equipped staff. But in certain cases, a quick and easy installed connection is needed. For example, in rural landscapes the distances to the failure can be too far. Repair can take several days, also delaying the reactivation of the energy grid.

This document explains the development process of the First Aid connector. It is a temporary connecting solution for energy cable or overhead lines. The main advantage of this specific connector is related to the fact that it's made of 3 components only. Therefore, it can be installed quickly and easily without any special tools. Just a heat source for shrinking is needed.

In this paper, the general characteristic of the First Aid connector is investigated as well as its basic electrical properties like the resistance and possible tensile-forces. Thus, the First Aid connector proves its capability as electrical connector.

In order to develop a strong mechanical solution for connecting overhead lines, TE Connectivity (TE)'s engineers developed a different design, mechanically optimized First Aid connectors. Lastly, further technical data are derived from the results for practical application of this product. 

 

Download our white paper to learn more.

TE Connectivity (TE)'s Raychem First Aid Connector: From an Idea to the Product - Technical Review

The idea of the First Aid connector was born after the occurrence of the hurricane in the Philippines back in 2013. The power distribution grid was hit hard, and repair it was a top priority. TE’s Engineers brainstormed on a solution to provide temporary connection for overhead lines.  

The energy grid consists mostly either of overhead lines in rural landscapes and power cable in urban districts. Both are complex systems fulfilling several electrical, mechanical and thermal requirements for energy transportation. To create an electrical connection is a difficult and specialized process, taken over by trained and well-equipped staff. But in certain cases, a quick and easy installed connection is needed. For example, in rural landscapes the distances to the failure can be too far. Repair can take several days, also delaying the reactivation of the energy grid.

This document explains the development process of the First Aid connector. It is a temporary connecting solution for energy cable or overhead lines. The main advantage of this specific connector is related to the fact that it's made of 3 components only. Therefore, it can be installed quickly and easily without any special tools. Just a heat source for shrinking is needed.

In this paper, the general characteristic of the First Aid connector is investigated as well as its basic electrical properties like the resistance and possible tensile-forces. Thus, the First Aid connector proves its capability as electrical connector.

In order to develop a strong mechanical solution for connecting overhead lines, TE Connectivity (TE)'s engineers developed a different design, mechanically optimized First Aid connectors. Lastly, further technical data are derived from the results for practical application of this product. 

 

Download our white paper to learn more.