Splicing

Question 1

What is the textbook definition of a shielded cable splice?

Answer 1

Two or more conductors joined with a suitable connector, re-insulated, re-shielded, and re-jacketed with compatible materials on a properly prepared surface.

Question 2

What must be done to cable layers during splicing?

Answer 2

They must be removed and re-established.

Question 3

What is the purpose of IEEE Standard 404?

Answer 3

It sets the specifications for shielded cable joints and 100% factory testing of pre-molded and cold shrink splices.

Question 4

Why should a splice never have a lower voltage rating than the cable?

Answer 4

It would de-rate the cable and create a weak link.

Question 5

List common reasons for splicing a cable.

Answer 5

Insufficient cable length, excessive pulling distances, cable failure, dig-in damage, or tapping into an existing cable.

Question 6

How have modern splicing materials improved reliability?

Answer 6

Better electrical, physical, and thermal properties with user-friendly designs.

Question 7

What are the five basic steps in making a splice?

Answer 7

1. Prepare cables 2. Join conductors 3. Re-insulate 4. Re-shield 5. Re-jacket

Question 8

What is critical about cable preparation?

Answer 8

A poorly prepared cable will result in an unreliable splice.

Question 9

What is the standard connector for medium/high voltage splicing?

Answer 9

Compression (crimp) connector.

Question 10

When can shear bolt connectors be used?

Answer 10

When they are part of a modern kit tested for medium/high voltage.

Question 11

What kind of connector should be used for aluminum conductors?

Answer 11

Aluminum-bodied connector filled with anti-oxide paste.

Question 12

What kind of connector can be used for copper or copper-to-aluminum?

Answer 12

Aluminum-bodied connector.

Question 13

Why is proper crimping important?

Answer 13

To maintain electrical continuity and prevent faults.

Question 14

What was traditionally used to re-insulate splices?

Answer 14

Rubber splicing tape.

Question 15

Why is modern rubber tape preferred?

Answer 15

It is thermally conductive and often linerless.

Question 16

What do manufactured splice kits include?

Answer 16

Pre-molded, cold shrink, or heat shrink insulation.

Question 17

What’s the advantage of manufactured kits?

Answer 17

Faster, easier installation with fewer craftsmanship errors.

Question 18

What are the three layers of shielding to re-establish?

Answer 18

Strand shield, insulation shield, and metallic shield.

Question 19

What is the function of re-jacketing?

Answer 19

Restores mechanical and moisture protection.

Question 20

What are jacketing options for splices?

Answer 20

Rubber/vinyl tape, heat shrink, cold shrink, resin, or metallic sleeves.

Question 21

Why is re-jacketing still important?

Answer 21

It protects the splice in rugged environments.

Question 22

What must a splice re-establish to match original cable?

Answer 22

All functions: electrical, mechanical, and environmental protection.

Question 23

What is the role of the Qualified Electrical Worker?

Answer 23

To ensure reliable installation through skill and adherence to procedure.

Question 24

How long can a properly installed splice last?

Answer 24

30–40+ years.

Question 25

What environments must a splice withstand?

Answer 25

Flooded manholes, direct burial, aerial installations.

Question 26

What can improper cable bending or pulling during splice prep lead to?

Answer 26

Internal damage and potential failure.

Question 27

Why are some splice kits missing connectors?

Answer 27

To fit a wide range of cable sizes.

Question 28

What do splice kits often include?

Answer 28

Installation instructions, re-jacketing options, and grounding accessories.

Question 29

What are pre-molded splices?

Answer 29

One-piece designs with insulation between semi-conductive shielding.

Question 30

What makes modern tapes superior?

Answer 30

Improved conductivity, flexibility, and faster application.

Question 31

What are heat shrink splices made of?

Answer 31

Factory-formed tubing.

Question 32

Why is exact preparation critical with modern kits?

Answer 32

They are sensitive to sizing and assembly steps.

Question 33

What does the semi-conducting jacket in pre-molded splices do?

Answer 33

Acts as both outer protection and insulation shield.

Question 34

What must installation follow to ensure performance?

Answer 34

Manufacturer’s recommended steps.

Question 35

What does good workmanship prevent?

Answer 35

Electrical faults and service interruptions.

Question 36

What key qualities must a good splice maintain?

Answer 36

Electrical and mechanical integrity, shield continuity, and moisture protection.

Question 37

What are stress cones in a splice?

Answer 37

Tapered insulation structures to manage electric stress.

Question 38

What is the lifespan expectation for splices in utility-grade work?

Answer 38

30 to 40 years or more.

Question 39

What can happen if shielding continuity is not maintained?

Answer 39

Increased fault risk and EMI issues.

Question 40

What component helps control electric stress in a splice?

Answer 40

Insulation and shielding design.

Question 41

Why is selecting the correct connector material important?

Answer 41

To match conductor materials and avoid corrosion.

Question 42

What product first allowed medium and high voltage splices to be connected using standard compression (crimp-type) connectors?

Answer 42

Pre-molded splice bodies.