How to Select Suspension Clamp – The Ultimate Guide

Cable Suspension Clamp

Components of suspension clamp

Suspension clamp is not a single entity as it has some major components that make up the connection to the conductors. They are as discussed below.

• The body– this is the frame supporting the ADSS suspension clamp for the conductor and it is made of aluminum alloy which is strong and also resistant to corrosion. This helps to maintain the durability of the OPGW suspension clamp.
• The keeper – the role of this part is to connect the conductor of the transmission line to the body of the helical suspension clamp.
• The strap – this are string-like constructions that are responsible for transferring the load from the axis of the swaying straight to the insulator string. The straps are perfect for the role as they are made of coated zinc material that helps them to achieve their purpose.
• Washers – these are usually put into use when the clamping of the surface is not rested vertically. This helps to provide support to the aluminum suspension clamp and the conductors. They are made of steel which helps them to resist corrosion and rust.
• Bolts and nuts – the bolts and nuts are used when the fiber optic suspension clamps are used mechanically in order to secure the connections. They are also made of steel to provide strength and resistance to corrosion.
• Threaded inserts – these are fastening elements for suspension clamps which are injected into components that have threaded holes to complete the connection. The threaded inserts are also made of stainless steel to resist corrosion and rust.

Types of suspension clamps

Suspension clamps for overhead lines are made in different designs and models as they have different roles on the transmission lines. They are each made for a particular function which means they cannot be interchanged. These types of cable suspension clamps should be selected for specific functions for the transmission lines. If unsure, you should consider consulting an expert. The most commonly used suspension clamps include:

• Suspension clamp for ADSS cable
• Suspension clamps for ABC cable
• Suspension clamp for OPGW cable
• AGS suspension clamp
• Preformed suspension clamp
• Double suspension clamp
• Suspension clamp for HT&LT cable
• Cable suspension clamp u-type

Design of suspension clamps

The design, mechanical and technical requirements of the ADSS suspension clamps define the functionalities and view of the clamp which makes it essential during the construction of the transmission lines. The well-designed OPGW suspension clamps ensure that there is a smooth coordination between the cable and other components. Some of the design aspects to be considered include:

1. Bolts and nuts — the designs of the bolts and nut should also be considered so that they can perfectly fit into the ABC suspension clamps during construction. They should also be from a similar material as the conductors.
2. Design of straps — the straps of the suspension clamp should be round-shaped and sizes should match with the sizes of the trunnion.
3. Anchor clamp — this is the one next to the conductor and should be able to move freely to allow the conductor to move. The design is attained if the trunnion of the clamp is part of the body.
4. Conductor supporting groove — the conductor supporting groove should have the right measurements for the application. The keeper of the fiber optic suspension clamp should not have any sharp edges that can produce any anomalies.

Uses of the suspension clamps on the transmission lines

The suspension clamp main use is to suspend the conductors hanging from the transmission lines. They ensure a safer connection of the above lines. They however have other important uses which are as follows.

• The cable suspension clamps help to hang and suspend the conductors.
• The suspension clamp for overhead line protects the conductor during the installation of the transmission lines on the poles.
• They can be used on the electrical pole overhead lines and the telephone transmission lines.
• They provide mechanical support by ensuring that there is the right hold on the transmission lines.
• The ABC suspension clamp control the movement of the cables against external forces such as wind and storms.

Factors to consider when purchasing suspension clamps

The market can be a tough nut to crack when it comes to selecting which suspension clamp to purchase for your overhead transmission. But not to worry since the following factors will help when choosing the suspension clamps.

1. The function of the suspension clamp — this is major to consider since the cable suspension clamps are different in the market and they are each used to achieve different purposes. Knowing the purpose you intend for the suspension clamp for overhead line is one step closer to selecting one.
2. The material used — this is also another factor to consider when planning a purchase. The best material for the suspension clamps is galvanized steel, stainless steel or aluminum alloy which helps them to resist corrosion and abrasion caused by the different weather conditions thus giving them a longer life.
3. The mechanical and tensional strength — the tensional strength is essential to support the weight of the conductors onto the perfect positions.
4. Other fittings used — this is important to know since fittings such as bolts and nuts help to secure the connections.
5. The manufacturer — this is also important since there are various manufacturers in the market specialized in manufacturing the different transmission products.

Different suspension clamps available in the market

There are different suspension clamps manufactured in the market and they are used for different purposes in the transmission lines constructions. The following clamp products are manufactured by TTF Power Systems in China.

• Aluminum trunnion suspension clamp — this is mainly used on standard voltage power line and specifically made to be used on tangent suspension sans with either horizontal or vertical post insulators.
• Bolted aluminum suspension clamp — this is mainly used to suspend or hang cables or conductors to the utility pole. This provides extra protection for the conductors
• Bolted aluminum trunnion suspension clamp — this is mainly an improved conductor support and protection system. It is used with bolts and nut and the body of the clamp is made from aluminum alloy.
• Double helical cushion suspension assembly — this is designed for use on standard voltage applications with all aluminum, ACSR, ACSS or aluminum alloy conductors. They are also made from aluminum alloy to resist corrosion.
• Double shield wire suspension clamp — this is also designed for standard voltage applications and aluminum alloy conductors. The material of the body is made from aluminum alloy.
• Ground wire suspension clamp — this is used as ground wires with galvanized steel cable. The material used to make the hardware is galvanized steel and the different parts of the hardware are made from different materials.
• Hot line hold down shackle — this hardware can be used on both the transmission lines and distribution lines and the material used to make the body is galvanized ductile iron or forged steel.
• Standard voltage suspension clamp — this is an electrical power line fitting that is used to suspend or hang the cables and conductors to the pole. It is also used to mount conductors and wires firmly on the pole. It is also made from aluminum alloy to resist corrosion.

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