The simplest of concepts with the broadest of applications, a crimped copper tube provides reliable entry and exit for current to be conducted via a cable.
As a cable termination, the crimped copper-tube cable epitomises the elegance of conceptual simplicity whether used as a lug with fastener-hole or pin-terminated for insertion. They can also be supplied custom-specified with extended or angled-palms, multiple holes, slots, or brazed attachments.
The high thermal and electrical conductivity of copper mean that the mass of attached cable dominates temperature regulation under normal working current conditions whilst an electroplated tin-coating stabilises contact resistance. More extreme or specialised applications may require a thicker wall for mechanical integrity or alternative coatings to cables and terminations. Nickel prevents allotropic tin-powder at very low temperatures, and silver prevents the irreversible extreme resistance-damage caused by diffusion of tin or nickel at very high temperatures.
Properly specified crimps, cables and terminations should have no problem with thermal-cycle endurance tests (such as EN61238). More comprehensive design and assembly specifications are necessary to guarantee the performance required for compliance with tests for portable earthing (EN61138) and for short-circuit and earth connections whilst live-working (EN61230). Note, however, that these qualifications apply to the combination of terminal, cable and crimping process including tooling. They are not otherwise transferable; a good quality terminal might contribute to an inadequate termination if, for example, poorly crimped to an inappropriate cable.
Volume applications to equipment and machinery are best covered by LML’s custom cables and braids which are terminated under factory conditions and supplied with pre-specified insulation, terminals and identification-labelling. LML complements its standard range of own-manufacture cable termination components with an extensive range of specialised versions and an infinite range of design possibilities.