3M Brings Cold Shrink to High-Voltage Applications.

AUSTIN, Texas -- 3M is introducing cold shrink technology to the high-voltage market, making it faster and easier to install a 69kV termination. Cold shrink technology was invented by 3M and until now has been available only for medium- and low-voltage applications.

The simpler installation of this reliable new termination helps reduce craft errors that may threaten system reliability. For example, the termination's eight skirts are optimally spaced and assembled together as a single component of the termination so that they don't have to be installed individually, as they must be when using heat shrink terminations. The 3M cold shrink termination kit QT-III, 7672-S-8 can be installed in considerably less time than traditional 69kV terminations, making possible a lower total installed cost.

For 69kV applications, cold shrink technology eliminates the dangers of a torch for installation and the burden of using a crane for lifting. Cold shrink terminations are as compact and more flexible than traditional terminations so they fit better in restricted spaces.

Manitoba Hydro has begun using the QT-III termination kits for 69kV in padmounted substation applications and outdoor pole-mounted applications. Ken Hamilton, underground standards engineer, Distribution Standards and Services at Manitoba Hydro, says, "3M provides a high quality cold shrink termination that is light, compact and user friendly to install. Our cablemen are very impressed with the product."

Since first developing the technology more than 30 years ago, 3M has made a series of improvements to cold shrink products. 3M cold shrink QT-III termination kits have been shown in field experience and laboratory tests to be reliable, even in challenging environments. Once installed, the cold shrink tube creates a dynamic, compressive seal without sealants or adhesives.

The first available 3M cold shrink QT-III kit for 69kV is the 7672-S-8 termination. It is designed to terminate 650-mil insulated power cable up to 69kV and covers a conductor range of 250 to 2000 kcmil in a variety of cable and insulation types. It meets or exceeds the requirements of IEEE 48 and IEC 60849.

For more information, go to www.3M.com/highvoltage. For more information about other 3M electrical products, go to www.3M.com/electrical or call [phone].

The 3M Electrical Markets Division, based in Austin, Texas, designs, manufactures and markets products for utility and industrial power businesses, electrical construction, industrial maintenance, and electrical/electronic devices produced by original equipment manufacturers. Division products include power cable splices and terminations, including cold and heat shrink technologies; cable arc and fire resistant tapes; heat shrinkable tubing and molded shapes for electrical insulation; electrical wire connectors; wire terminals, tools and lugs; wire marking products; cable ties; underground/underwater electrical system products; electrical diagnostic and detection products, and electrical and electronic specialty insulating tapes.

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