Considered fundamental components in any construction or equipment, electrical conductors are responsible for carrying electrical energy from one point to another in buildings, industries, residences, or machines. Electrical cables allow for the safe and highly effective distribution of energy, ensuring the supply of electrical load in various situations.
In this scenario, it is often necessary to expand the area of energy operation through a splice of electrical conductors that ensures transmission to other points. This type of action is so important that there is a regulatory standard establishing all the conditions for performing the splice of electrical conductors, ABNT 5410:2004.
Materials for performing the splice of electrical conductors
The first step to perform a splice in electrical conductors is to have the right materials, such as:
- Connectors and terminals
- Insulating tape or high fusion tape
- Universal wire stripper
- Personal protective equipment (PPE): gloves and safety glasses
With all the tools and personal protective equipment in hand, just choose which type of splice of electrical conductors you will perform.
Types of splices in electrical conductors
Basically, there are three types of splices of electrical conductors that can be performed: rat tail, extension, and branch splice. Each depends on the type of electrical conductor, environment, and also the purpose of the splice.
1. Rat Tail Splice
Ideal for junction and pass-through boxes, this type of splice begins with the removal of two centimeters (depending on the cross-sectional area of the cable) of the sheaths that cover the wires to be joined.
Next, use two pliers — one on each wire — and start twisting and wrapping one around the other. Be very careful to ensure a perfect twist of the two conductors. Finally, cover this intersection area of the stripped wires with insulating tape or high fusion tape.
2. Extension Splice
Used to extend the length of electrical wiring, the extension type splice begins with the process of stripping the wires with a wire stripper. It is recommended to remove a good area of sheath from each of the wires to ensure better resistance during the passage of energy.
Then, join the two wires with pliers and form a 120-degree angle, then twist them. Finish with insulating tape or high fusion tape, depending on the need.
3. Branch Splice
This type of splice of electrical conductors is applied when there is a need to create feeder branches in a line that is already in use.
Use the wire stripper and remove a good length of the main wire (about 20 times the diameter) and the derived wire (in this case, about 50 times the diameter). Place the two wires perpendicular, holding them firmly with the universal pliers, and then wrap one conductor around the other until forming at least six turns.
As in the other examples, finish the operation by performing the splice with insulating tape or high fusion tape.
