Jointing 66kV cables for the reinforcing of the Christchurch distribution network
Recently I had the opportunity to observe Shaun Baker and Barry Kelly jointing the 1000mm XLPE cable that is being laid to link the McFaddens Rd and Dallington Zone substations. Shaun and Barry (as seen from my previous post's analysis ) have spent a lot of time in Christchurch jointing and terminating 66kV cables since the devastating February 2011 Christchurch Earthquake. The joint I observed being done was in joint hole #1, on Ranger St near the intersection of Nancy Avenue in Mairehau (in my previous post, this is where the cable drum was located). As is typical with all cable jointing, cleanliness is paramount, and the hole is contained inside a 22 foot container supplied by HV contractor Connetics. The container keeps dust and the weather out, and allows the jointers to work in relative privacy (except when being observed by certain Electrical tutors!). The 'jointing container' The interior of the container is powered and has block and tackle e