Underground Cable Accessories Erection and Checking Procedure at Site Work

Fig-Underground Cable Joint 

Underground cable accessories are components used in electrical power distribution systems to connect and protect underground cables. These accessories ensure the safe and efficient transmission of electricity, and they are typically designed to withstand the environmental conditions associated with being buried underground.

Underground Cable Accessories

Here are some common types of underground cable accessories:

Cable Joints: Cable joints, also known as cable splices, are used to connect two or more cables together. They provide electrical continuity and mechanical strength to the jointed cables. Cable joints are typically made of insulating materials and are designed to maintain the same electrical properties as the cables they connect.

Cable Terminations: Cable terminations are used to connect cables to electrical equipment, such as transformers, switchgear, or distribution boxes. They provide a secure and reliable electrical connection between the cable and the equipment. Cable terminations are designed to withstand high voltages and prevent electrical leakage or insulation breakdown.

Cable Sealing Kits: Cable sealing kits are used to provide environmental protection for cable joints and terminations. They prevent the ingress of moisture, dust, and other contaminants into the cable connection, ensuring its long-term reliability. Sealing kits typically consist of various insulating and sealing components, such as heat-shrinkable tubes, mastic, and resin.

Cable Ducts: Cable ducts are protective tubes or conduits used to encase underground cables. They provide mechanical protection and help in organizing and routing cables in a controlled manner. Cable ducts are usually made of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) or other durable materials and can withstand the stresses and pressures associated with being buried underground.

Cable Markers: Cable markers are used to identify and label underground cables for easy identification and maintenance purposes. They are typically made of durable materials, such as metal or plastic, and are designed to withstand environmental exposure and remain legible over time.

Cable Fault Locators: Cable fault locators are specialized devices used to detect and locate faults or disruptions in underground cables. They help in identifying the exact location of cable faults, such as breaks or insulation failures, which aids in efficient troubleshooting and repair.

It's important to note that specific cable accessories may vary depending on the voltage rating, cable type, and application requirements. Consulting with a qualified electrical engineer or cable accessory manufacturer is recommended to determine the most suitable accessories for a particular underground cable installation.

Cable Accessories Erection and Checking Procedure

The erection and checking procedure for underground cable accessories may vary depending on the specific type of accessories and the installation requirements. However, I can provide you with a general outline of the steps involved in the process. It's important to note that working with high-voltage cables requires specialized knowledge and expertise, and it's crucial to follow the guidelines and instructions provided by the cable manufacturer and adhere to relevant safety regulations. It is recommended to consult with a professional or an experienced engineer for specific installation procedures. Here's a general overview:

Preparing for the installation:

• Gather all the necessary tools and equipment required for the installation, including safety gear, testing instruments, cable accessories, and any specialized tools recommended by the manufacturer.
• Review the installation instructions provided by the cable and accessory manufacturer to familiarize yourself with the specific requirements and procedures.
• Ensure that the work area is clear of any hazards and that proper safety precautions are in place.

Cable preparation:

• Inspect the cable for any visible damage or defects. If any issues are found, consult with the manufacturer before proceeding.
• Clean the cable ends thoroughly to remove any dirt, moisture, or contaminants that may affect the installation.

Installing cable accessories:

• Follow the manufacturer's instructions to determine the correct sequence and method of installing each accessory, such as cable terminations, joints, or splices.
• Carefully position and align the accessories according to the recommended specifications, ensuring proper fit and contact with the cable.

Sealing and insulation:

• Apply appropriate insulation materials, such as heat shrink tubes, tapes, or resin-based compounds, as specified by the manufacturer.
• Ensure that the insulation materials cover the cable accessories completely and form a secure seal to protect against moisture ingress and provide electrical insulation.

Testing and verification:

• Perform electrical tests and measurements, such as insulation resistance, partial discharge, and continuity checks, using suitable testing equipment and following the manufacturer's guidelines.
• Verify that the installed accessories meet the required electrical and mechanical specifications and perform as expected.
• Document the test results and compare them with the specified parameters to ensure compliance.

Post-installation checks:

• Inspect the entire installation for any visual defects, loose connections, or other anomalies.
• Conduct final tests, such as polarity checks or dielectric tests, to ensure the overall integrity and performance of the cable system.

Remember, this is a general outline, and the specific steps and requirements may vary depending on the type of cable accessories being used and any specific recommendations from the manufacturer. It's crucial to consult the manufacturer's documentation and guidelines and seek professional assistance or supervision during the installation process to ensure a safe and accurate installation.

The Contractor’s Responsibility during Carryout of the Underground Cable Accessories Erection and Checking at the Site

All works at the Site are to be carried out in such a manner as not to obstruct unduly the public, the Employer's Staff nor any other Contractor, or the operation of existing supply systems. Full facilities and assistance are to be afforded by the Contractor for the Employer or his Representative to check the Site works. Where the works are to interface with other contractors' works, coordination of all activities shall be performed in consultation with the employer's representative.

The Contractor shall submit to the Employer for approval and discussion his proposals and plans as to the method of procedure to be adopted and particulars of temporary works involved in construction. 

In addition, the Contractor shall submit for approval and agree with the Employer the methods, procedures, and means of recording all pre-energization testing and commissioning works.

As each part of the Works is erected the Contractor shall seek the Employers approval that the works have been constructed in accordance with the specification and approved drawings.

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For purposes of progress payments for site work a monthly and cumulative system of joint measurement of work done for each Section of Work shall be set up by the Contractor in a manner approved by the Employer.

Any works constructed prior to the issue of drawings approved by the Employer for the particular works may not be included in the percentage completion figures.

The Contractor is to provide such protection and watchmen as he may consider necessary to safeguard his materials and stores. The Employer will not accept responsibility for any loss or damage, which may occur during the execution of the contract.

The carrying out of all the work included in the Contract shall be supervised by a sufficient number of qualified representatives of the Contractor, and full facilities and assistance shall be provided to the Employer to check the Works. 

The Contractor shall obtain from the Employer details of the works that he proposes to inspect, but such inspection shall in no way exonerate the Contractor from any of his obligations. 

The Contractor, if required by the Employer, shall open for inspection before the erection of any equipment, which has been delivered to the site partly assembled.

The Contractor shall keep the site reasonably clean where he erects or stores plant, removing all waste materials resulting from the Works as it accumulates and as reasonably directed.

On completion of the Works, the Site shall be left clean and tidy to the satisfaction of the Employer. Any damage done to buildings, structures, plants, or property belonging to the Employer shall be made good at the Contractor's expense.

The Contractor shall ensure the correctness of electrical and mechanical connections to all equipment supplied under the Contract before such equipment is commissioned.

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During erection and commissioning the Contractor shall provide all temporary scaffolding, ladders, and platforms with toe boards and hand-rails essential for proper access of workmen and inspectors, cover or rail off dangerous openings or holes in floors, and afford adequate protection against materials falling from a higher level on a person below.

The maximum personal safety must be afforded to personnel either directly engaged in this Contract or who in the normal course of their occupations find it necessary to utilize temporary works erected by the Contractor or to frequent the working area.

In each and every case involving a connection between the Plant supplied under this Contract and any other existing plant which may or may not be in service, the Contractor must make suitable arrangements as regards the time and manner in which the connection is made subject to the approval of Employer’s Representative who is in charge of the existing plant. Where cases arise involving the operation of the plant or work on a plant in operation or whenever required by the Employer’s Representative, the Contractor must obtain a written “Permit to Work” signed by a person duly authorized by the Employer.