Collection of SANS standards in electronic format (PDF)

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2. Indemnity

The South African Bureau of Standards accepts no liability for any damage whatsoever
than may result from the use of this material or the information contain therein,
irrespective of the cause and quantum thereof.

I agree with the above

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ICS 29.120.20; 29.240.20

NRS 018-3:1995
ISBN 0-626-10509-9 First edition

Rationalized User Specification

FITTINGS AND CONNECTORS FOR

LOW-VOLTAGE OVERHEAD POWER LINES
USING AERIAL BUNDLED CONDUCTORS

Part 3: Strain and suspension fittings for bare

neutral supporting conductors

Preferred requirements for applications in

the Electricity Supply Industry

N R S
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 This standard may only be used and printed by approved subscription and freemailing clients of the SABS.

1 NRS 018-3:1995

CONTENTS
Page

Foreword............................................................................................................................................ 3

Introduction ........................................................................................................................................ 4

Key words .......................................................................................................................................... 4

1 Scope ...................................................................................................................................... 5

2 Normative references............................................................................................................... 5

3 Definitions and abbreviations ................................................................................................... 6

4 Requirements .......................................................................................................................... 6

4.1 Materials........................................................................................................................ 6
4.2 Fastenings ..................................................................................................................... 7
4.3 Range of system............................................................................................................ 7
4.4 Samples ........................................................................................................................ 7
4.5 Strain fittings.................................................................................................................. 8
4.6 Suspension fittings......................................................................................................... 8
4.7 Pole fittings.................................................................................................................... 8

5 Tests........................................................................................................................................ 9

5.1 General.......................................................................................................................... 9
5.2 Type tests for strain fittings ............................................................................................ 9
5.3 Type tests for suspension fittings ..................................................................................12
5.4 Type tests for pole fittings .............................................................................................14
5.5 Sample tests.................................................................................................................14

6 Marking/packing/selection/documentation ...............................................................................15

6.1 Identification and markings ...........................................................................................15

6.2 Packing and protection .................................................................................................15
6.3 Selection and installation instructions............................................................................16
6.4 Documentation .............................................................................................................16

Figures

1 M16 pigtail bolt .......................................................................................................................17

2 M16 eye nut ............................................................................................................................18
3 Diagram of test arrangement and criteria for pole fittings ........................................................18
4 Test arrangement for endurance testing of strain fittings .........................................................19
5 Schematic test arrangement for endurance testing with oscillations ........................................20
6 Electricité de France test arrangement for endurance testing of suspension fittings,
with oscillations.......................................................................................................................21
7 Method for fastening masspieces to the supporting conductor.................................................22
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NRS 018-3:1995 2

CONTENTS (continued)

Page
Annexes

A Guide to purchasers on preparing an enquiry ..........................................................................23

B Model form for schedules A and B ..........................................................................................25
C Bibliography............................................................................................................................28

ISBN 0-626-10509-9
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3 NRS 018-3:1995

Foreword

This part of NRS 018 has been prepared on behalf of the Electricity Suppliers Liaison Committee
(ESLC) and approved by it for use by supply authorities and other users, when purchasing strain and
suspension fittings for bare neutral supporting conductors. It is based on European specifications.

NRS 018 consists of the following parts under the general title Fittings and connectors for low-voltage
overhead power lines using aerial bundled conductors:

Part 1:1995, Strain and suspension fittings for self-supporting conductors.

Part 2:1995, Strain and suspension fittings for insulated neutral supporting conductors.

Part 3:1995, Strain and suspension fittings for bare neutral supporting conductors.

Part 4:1996, Strain fittings for aerial service cables (in course of preparation).

Part 5:1995, Current carrying connectors and joints.

This part of NRS 018 was prepared by a Working Group which, at the time of publication, comprised
the following members:

H D Perch (Chairman) Durban Electricity

R A Branfield Eastern Cape Region, Eskom
T R Brooking Distribution Technology, Eskom
P Crowdy Distribution Technology, Eskom
J W J Dixon Technology Consultancy Services
A Evetts Physical Development, KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Administration
I Ferguson Durban Distributor, Eskom
P A Johnson NRS Project (Project Leader)
L D Meyer NRS Project
S C Sutherland SABS/NETFA

A Manufacturers' Interest Group (MIG) was consulted on the contents of this part of NRS 018 and its
comments were incorporated where the Working Group was in agreement. The MIG comprised the
following members:

A Carter Electrical Moulded Components

C M Coode Hycon Electrical Components
B Dudley Sicame South Africa
D Kambouris Preformed Line Products
J L Kenyon John L Kenyon Suppliers
R S E Martin Eberhardt-Martin
N A J Page Pratley Engineering
R R Richmond Hardware Assemblies
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NRS 018-3:1995 4

Foreword (continued)

The Working Group was appointed by the ESLC which, at the time of approval, comprised the
following members:

S A Cilliers (Chairman) Corporate Consultant, Distribution Technology, Eskom

C E Adams City Electrical Engineer, Port Elizabeth, AMEU
B F Berwyn-Taylor City Electrical Engineer, Cape Town, AMEU
A J Claasen Manager, Electrical Engineering Standards, SABS
R W Curtis JCI, for Chamber of Mines of South Africa
J A Ehrich Pretoria Electricity
A H L Fortmann City Electrical Engineer, Boksburg, AMEU
D F Hunt Corporate Technology Standardization Manager, Eskom
I P Kruger Director, Department of Electrical Engineering, SABS
M Pomeroy City Electrical Engineer, Johannesburg, AMEU
A J van der Merwe City Electrical Engineer, Bloemfontein, AMEU
D L van Wyk Distribution Technology Manager, Eskom
H R Whitehead Executive Director, Durban Electricity, AMEU

Annexes A to C are for information only.

Recommendations for corrections, additions or deletions should be addressed to the NRS Project
Manager, c/o SABS, Private Bag X191, Pretoria, 0001.

Introduction

This part of NRS 018 was prepared to establish and promote uniform requirements for strain and
suspension fittings for aerial bundled conductors (ABC) with bare neutral supporting conductors, to
enable purchasers to acquire the specified equipment without the need for detailed and extensive
contract documents.

The Electricity Suppliers Liaison Committee expresses the wish that, in the national interest and in
support of government policy to foster local manufacture and stimulate export, all purchasers adopt
the recommendations of this part of NRS 018 insofar as their particular conditions will permit. Any
differences between this part of NRS 018 and the corresponding purchaser's requirements should, as
far as possible, be clearly indicated in the schedules attached to this part of NRS 018 and, where
appropriate, be submitted for consideration in future revisions of this part of NRS 018.

Key words

Strain fittings; Suspension fittings; Low voltage; Bare neutral supporting conductors; Aerial bundled
conductors (ABC); Testing; Specifications.
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5 NRS 018-3:1995

SPECIFICATION

Fittings and connectors for low-voltage overhead power lines using aerial bundled
conductors

Part 3: Strain and suspension fittings for bare neutral supporting conductors

Preferred requirements for applications in the Electricity Supply Industry

1 Scope

This part of NRS 018 covers the requirements for the manufacture, testing and supply of strain and
suspension fittings for bare neutral supporting conductors for use on a.c. system voltages up to and
including 1 000 V, and is based on European standards that have been modified where necessary.

NOTE – Details of the accelerated weathering test and the corrosion test are given in annexes A and B,
respectively, of NRS 018-2.

2 Normative references

The following documents contain provisions which, through reference in this text, constitute
provisions of this part of NRS 018. At the time of publication, the editions indicated were valid. All
documents are subject to revision, and parties to purchase agreements based on this part of NRS 018
are encouraged to investigate the possibility of applying the most recent editions of the documents
indicated below. Information on currently valid national and international standards and specifications
can be obtained from the South African Bureau of Standards.

2.1 International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) specification

IEC 695-2-1/1:1994, Fire hazard testing — Part 2: Test methods — Section 1/sheet 1, Glow-wire
end-product test and guidance.

2.2 SABS specifications

SABS 135:1991, ISO metric bolts, screws and nuts (hexagon and square) (coarse thread free fit
series).
Amendment No. 1: November 1992.

SABS 178:1970, Non-current-carrying line fittings for overhead power lines.

Amendment No. 2: August 1972.

SABS 763:1988, Hot-dip (galvanized) zinc coatings (other than on continuously zinc-coated sheet and
wire).
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NRS 018-3:1995 6

2.3 Eskom specification

SCSSCAAD5 Rev. 2, Aerial bundled conductor with uninsulated (bare) neutral.

2.4 NRS specification

NRS 018-2:1995, Fittings and connectors for low-voltage overhead power lines using aerial bundled
conductors — Part 2: Strain and suspension fittings for insulated neutral supporting conductors.

3 Definitions and abbreviations

3.1 aerial bundled conductors (ABC) (bundle): An aerial cable that consists of cores twisted
together.

3.2 breaking force: The tensile load applied during testing, under which the supporting conductor
finally breaks or becomes permanently deformed.

3.3 designated range: The range of supporting conductor cross-sectional areas with which the
fittings are intended to be used.

3.4 design tension: The statutory maximum tension (see the Occupational Health and Safety Act,
1993 (Act 85 of 1993)) to which the ABC or conductor may be subjected.

3.5 manufacturer's identification marks: Markings that include the manufacturer's name or trade
mark and the fitting reference.

3.6 strain fitting: A fitting that transfers the tensile load between the supporting conductor and the
strain resisting structures of an ABC system.

3.7 supporting conductor ABC: A multicore ABC system that is so installed that only the neutral
conductor is under tension.

3.8 suspension fitting: A fitting that supports the ABC at intermediate positions between strain
fittings.

4 Requirements

NOTES

1. The types and quantities of the fittings required will be specified in schedule A.

2. Details of the ABC will be specified in schedule A.

3. The standard with which the ABC complies, including the breaking force of the supporting conductor, will be
specified in schedule A.

4.1 Materials

4.1.1 General

Materials used in the manufacture of fittings shall:

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7 NRS 018-3:1995

a) be of adequate strength for the intended application of the fittings and free from any defects that
could impair the performance of the fittings;

b) be mutually compatible with the cable materials; and

c) retain their performance characteristics despite exposure to an outdoor environment.

4.1.2 Protection against ultraviolet radiation

All components of fittings shall be manufactured from ultraviolet stabilized material. The material
offered shall be detailed in schedule B.

4.1.3 Fire retardation

Unless otherwise specified in schedule A, all non-metallic components of fittings shall satisfy the
glow-wire test requirements specified in IEC 695-2-1/1. The glow-wire temperature shall be 550 °C
and shall be applied for 30 s.

4.1.4 Protection against corrosion

All ferrous parts shall be hot-dip galvanized in accordance with SABS 763. Ferrous parts shall not be
electroplated.

4.1.5 Finish

All fittings shall be free from sharp edges, burrs and swarf.

4.1.6 Identification

The insulating materials used in the manufacture of the fittings shall be blue.

4.2 Fastenings

All threaded fastenings that form part of the fittings shall have ISO metric threads of the preferred
sizes given in SABS 135 and at least two full threads shall project clear of the locking device when it
is tightened.

4.3 Range of system

The strain and suspension fittings shall accommodate ABC that has supporting conductor cross-
sectional areas in the range 35 mm2 to 50 mm2.

NOTE — If fittings for other conductor area sizes are required, these will be specified in schedule A.

The designated range of the strain and suspension fittings, based on the supporting conductor cross-
sectional areas, shall be stated in schedule B.

4.4 Samples

A sample and details of the design of all items offered, together with their type test certificates, shall
be submitted with the tender.

4.5 Strain fittings

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NRS 018-3:1995 8

4.5.1 Strain fittings shall be designed for attachment to pole fittings that comply with the
requirements of 4.7.

4.5.2 Strain fittings shall be so designed that parts need not be detached when the fittings are being
attached to the ABC; for example, any wedges used shall be captive wedges.

4.5.3 It shall not be possible to assemble the fitting in an incorrect manner.

4.5.4 The fittings shall not slip or release the supporting conductor during normal service.

4.5.5 The fittings shall not cause damage to the supporting conductor during normal service.

NOTE — Strain fittings should be so designed that the tensioned conductor enters on the tension side with
minimum separation of the cores of the bundle.

4.5.6 Strain fittings shall pass the tests of clause 5.

4.6 Suspension fittings

4.6.1 A suspension fitting shall secure an ABC by clamping around the supporting conductor only.

4.6.2 A suspension fitting shall allow easy attachment to the range of pole fittings specified in 4.7.

4.6.3 All suspension fittings shall be designed for use on line deviations of up to 45°.

4.6.4 Suspension fittings shall be of a type that can be installed without the use of special tools.

4.6.5 A suspension fitting shall hold the supporting conductor without any slippage when the
conductor is subjected to a force equal to 2,0 % of breaking force.

4.6.6 Suspension fittings shall be designed to release the supporting conductor by failure at a
vertical load of approximately 8 kN.

4.6.7 Suspension fittings shall pass the tests of clause 5.

4.7 Pole fittings

NOTE — The length of thread of the pole fittings will be specified in schedule A, depending on the type and
size of pole to be used.

4.7.1 Manufacture shall not involve cold bending or welding (or both).

4.7.2 Pigtail bolts, nuts and eye nuts shall be threaded M16, in accordance with SABS 135. External
threads shall not be undercut. Galvanizing shall be of type C of SABS 763. Pigtail bolts and eye nuts
shall be manufactured from grade 4.8 material in accordance with SABS 135.

4.7.3 Nuts shall be manufactured from grade 5 material in accordance with SABS 135.

4.7.4 Internal threads shall be undercut to suit matching galvanized components and shall be treated
with an acceptable rust inhibitor. Galvanizing of nuts shall precede threading.

4.7.5 The design of the pole fittings shall conform to the following schematic drawings:

a) pigtail bolt — figure 1; and

a) eye nut — figure 2.

4.7.6 The pole fittings shall pass the tests of clause 5.

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9 NRS 018-3:1995

5 Tests

5.1 General

All tests shall be conducted on new equipment and material and all samples undergoing testing shall
be visually inspected for damage, before the test is carried out. Fittings designated to accommodate a
range of supporting conductor sizes shall be tested using ABC that has the maximum size and the
minimum size of supporting conductor of the designated range.

Each ABC that is used in tests which involve a trial voltage test shall be voltage tested before use, to
ensure its initial integrity.

The ABC used in the tests shall be as specified in schedule A and shall be certified as having attained
the specified breaking force.

Sampling for sample tests shall be done in accordance with SABS 178 and the acceptance number
shall be as given therein, unless otherwise specified.

Type tests shall be conducted by, and the results certified by, a test authority that is an organization
or a person approved by the purchaser, and as specified in schedule A. These tests shall be
conducted at an ambient temperature of between 10 °C and 30 °C, and at a humidity of less than
80 %.

5.2 Type tests for strain fittings

5.2.1 General

The following type tests shall be conducted using a set of 10 strain fittings selected at random by the
test authority.

Strain fittings that are to be tested in conjunction with the ABC shall be installed and tensioned in
accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.

5.2.2 Dielectric tests on fittings installed on the supporting conductor

5.2.2.1 Test samples

Test four new fittings.

5.2.2.2 Test procedure

Mount a strain fitting at each end of a section of supporting conductor of length at least 500 mm.
Ensure that the supporting conductor is of the larger size specified in 4.3. Earth the attachment points
of the fittings.

Apply a voltage of frequency 50 Hz between the conductor and earth. Increase the voltage at a rate
of 1 kV/s up to an r.m.s. voltage of 10 kV, maintain this voltage for 1 min and then remove it.

5.2.2.3 Acceptance criterion

Breakdown shall not occur.

5.2.3 Tensile test

5.2.3.1 Test samples

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NRS 018-3:1995 10

Test four new strain fittings.

5.2.3.2 Test procedure

Mount a strain fitting at each end of a section of supporting conductor of length at least 500 mm.
Ensure that the supporting conductor is of the larger size specified in 4.3.

Apply a steadily increasing tensile load until the conductor breaks or until the fittings release.

Repeat the test procedure on a supporting conductor of the smaller size specified in 4.3.

5.2.3.3 Acceptance criteria

Permanent slippage of the supporting conductor in the fitting or breaking of either the supporting
conductor or of the fittings shall not occur at loads of less than 90 % of the certified breaking force of
the supporting conductor (see 5.1).

5.2.4 Accelerated weathering test

5.2.4.1 Test samples and test equipment

Carry out the test on two of the fittings and on the supporting conductor used in 5.2.2. Before the test,
susbject the strain fittings and the supporting conductor to a tensile force of 7 500 N for 10 min whilst
they are free to rotate. Then release the tension.

This test exposes the fitting and conductor assembly to a combined cycle of weathering stresses,
ultraviolet radiation, humidity, water spray and temperature variations.

The test equipment is described in annex A of NRS 018-2.

5.2.4.2 Test procedure

Subject the test samples to the test described in annex A of NRS 018-2.

At the end of that test, submit both fittings to the dielectric test of 5.2.2.

After completion of the dielectric test, submit the tested specimen, i.e. the two fittings mounted on the
length of supporting conductor, to the tensile test of 5.2.3.

5.2.4.3 Acceptance criteria

Permanent slippage of the supporting conductor in the fittings or breaking of either the supporting
conductor or the fittings shall not occur at loads of less than 90 % of the certified breaking force of the
supporting conductor (see 5.1).

5.2.5 Endurance test

5.2.5.1 Test samples

Carry out the test on the two fittings and the supporting conductor that were used in 5.2.2 but were not
used in 5.2.4.

Figure 4 shows the positions of the fittings under test, the swivel joints, the point of application of the
heating current and the point of measuring the tension. The supporting conductor is the larger size
specified in 4.3.

5.2.5.2 Test procedure

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11 NRS 018-3:1995

Carry out the test as follows:

a) during the first 75 min of each 90 min test cycle, apply a load equivalent to 25 % of the breaking
force of the supporting conductor and slowly increase it to 50 % of the breaking force in not less
than 5 s during the last 15 min of each cycle; do not allow the load to decrease below the 25 %
value throughout the test;

b) at the start of each cycle, heat the conductor using a current density of 4 A/mm2 to 5 A/mm2 until
the steady-state temperature of the supporting conductor is 60 °C ± 3 °C; maintain this
temperature for 45 min;

c) reduce the current to zero and allow the conductor to cool naturally to 25 °C ± 5 °C before the
tensile load (see (a)), is increased;

d) measure the slippage between the fitting and the conductor after the second cycle; and

e) repeat these cycles 100 times and again measure the slippage at the end of the test.

5.2.5.3 Acceptance criteria

At the end of the endurance test:

a) the slippage of the supporting conductor with respect to the fittings shall comply with the following
requirements:

— slippage after 2 cycles: S2 < 4 mm

— slippage after 100 cycles: S100 < S2 + 1 mm

b) the fittings and supporting conductor shall pass the dielectric test of 5.2.2, without breakdown; and

c) the fittings and supporting conductor shall pass the test of 5.2.3.

5.2.6 Corrosion test

5.2.6.1 Test samples

Test two new strain fittings.

5.2.6.2 Test procedure

Subject the test samples to the test described in annex B of NRS 018-2.

5.2.6.3 Acceptance criteria

At the end of the corrosion test:

a) the fittings shall be free from any detrimental corrosion;

b) the markings specified in 6.1 shall be legible under normal viewing;

c) the fittings shall pass the dielectric test of 5.2.2; and

d) the fittings shall pass the tensile test of 5.2.3 when tested in conjunction with a conductor of the
larger size specified in 4.3 but with the required breaking force reduced to 75 % of the certified
breaking force.

5.3 Type tests for suspension fittings

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NRS 018-3:1995 12

5.3.1 General

Suspension fittings shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions and no further
adjustments shall be made to the fittings during the tests.

The following type tests shall be conducted using a set of six suspension fittings selected at random
by the test authority.

5.3.2 Dielectric test on fittings with supporting conductor

5.3.2.1 Test sample

Test four new fittings in conjunction with the larger size of supporting conductor specified in 4.3.

5.3.2.2 Test procedure

Mount a section of supporting conductor (of sufficient length to avoid flashover), in an earthed fitting.
Apply a voltage of frequency 50 Hz to the supporting conductor. Increase the voltage steadily at a
rate of 1 kV/s up to an r.m.s. voltage of 10 kV maintain this voltage for 1 min and then remove it.

5.3.2.3 Acceptance criterion

Breakdown shall not occur.

5.3.3 Tensile test on suspension fittings, including the movable link (where applicable)

5.3.3.1 Test sample

Test two new fittings.

5.3.3.2 Test procedure

Install a fitting in a tensile rig, and apply a steadily increasing load to the cradle of the fitting until the
fitting breaks.

5.3.3.3 Acceptance criterion

The fitting shall break when subjected to a load between 7 kN and 9 kN.

5.3.4 Slippage test

5.3.4.1 Test samples

Test the four fittings used in 5.3.2. Install two fittings on the smaller size of supporting conductor
specified in 4.3 and two on the larger size.

5.3.4.2 Test procedure

Subject each fitting in turn to a tensile force by attaching a fitting to the fixed part of a tensile testing
rig and attaching the supporting conductor to the moving part ot the rig. Apply the load to the
supporting conductor in the longitudinal direction and increase this load gradually to 2,0 % of the
certified breaking force of the supporting conductor, while at the same time monitoring the slippage of
the fitting.

5.3.4.3 Acceptance criterion

Slippage shall not occur at less than 2,0 % of the certified breaking force of the supporting conductor.

5.3.5 Accelerated weathering test

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13 NRS 018-3:1995

5.3.5.1 Test samples

Mount two fittings that passed the test of 5.3.4 on a supporting conductor of the larger size specified
in 4.3.

5.3.5.2 Test procedure

Carry out the test of 5.2.4.

5.3.5.3 Acceptance criterion

The fittings and conductors shall pass the dielectric test of 5.3.2.

5.3.6 Endurance test with oscillations (see figures 5, 6, and 7)

5.3.6.1 Test samples

Carry out this test on two samples that passed the accelerated weathering test of 5.3.5.

5.3.6.2 Test procedure

Carry out the test as follows:

a) mount a strain fittings at each end of a supporting conductor of length approximately 12 m, with a
suspension fitting at the mid-span position as shown in figure 5;

b) rigidly secure two masspieces of 40 kg each onto the supporting conductor at a distance of 1,2 m
from the suspension fitting. Use attachments that are of nominal mass 2 kg (see figure 7);

c) apply a constant tensile load of 25 % of the certified breaking force of the supporting conductor to
the conductor while a transverse force is applied to the suspension fittings to produce lateral
oscillation of the whole span. The amplitude of this oscillation is 40° ± 2° from the vertical position
of the suspension fitting (see figure 7); 64 oscillations are applied during a 75 min period; and

d) the duration of the test is 625 h.

NOTE — Figure 6 shows the apparatus used by Electricité de France for this test.
5.3.6.3 Acceptance criteria

5.3.6.3.1 No damage of the supporting conductor shall occur during the test.

5.3.6.3.2 The fittings and supporting conductor shall pass the test of 5.3.3.

5.3.7 Corrosion test

5.3.7.1 Test samples

Test two of the fittings used in 5.3.4.

5.3.7.2 Test procedure

Subject the test samples to the test described in annex B of NRS 018-2.

5.3.7.3 Acceptance criteria

At the end of the corrosion test:

a) the fittings shall be free from any detrimental corrosion;

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NRS 018-3:1995 14

b) the markings specified in 6.1 shall be legible under normal viewing;

c) the fittings shall pass the dielectric test of 5.3.2; and

d) the fittings shall pass the tensile test of 5.3.3.

5.4 Type tests for pole fittings

5.4.1 General

The threads of pole fittings shall be subjected to the type tests and sample tests specified in
SABS 135.

5.4.2 Mechanical test on samples

Select six samples at random and inspect them to ensure that they comply with the requirements of
4.7 and with the approved manufacturer's drawings.

Install each sample on a structure that simulates service conditions, as shown in figure 3.

Establish reference dimensions A and B, to record the initial position of the fitting. Apply a 10 kN load
in the horizontal plane, using a shackle and a 12 mm ± 1 mm pin. Remove the load and check
dimension A. The permanent distortion from the reference point shall be less than 5 mm.

Then apply a 1,5 kN load in the vertical plane, using the aforementioned shackle. After removal of the
load, check dimension B. The permanent distortion from the reference point shall be less than 25
mm.

5.5 Sample tests

5.5.1 Visual inspection

Visually inspect the fittings to ascertain whether:

a) the identification markings specified in 6.1 are legible and correct;

b) the fittings correspond with the design of the models used for the type tests;

c) the material of the samples is similar to that used in the type tests. (This can be checked by
performing further type or material tests if so requested by the inspector); and

d) the colour of the insulating materials of the fittings is blue.

5.5.2 Strain fittings

Carry out the tests of 5.2.2 and 5.2.3 on each fitting in the sample from each batch. The fittings shall
satisfy the appropriate acceptance criteria.

5.5.3 Suspension fittings

Carry out tests 5.3.2, 5.3.3 and 5.3.4 on each fitting in the sample from each batch. The fittings shall
satisfy the appropriate acceptance criteria.

5.5.4 Pole fittings

At random, select one fitting per 1 000 from each batch. A decimal sample size shall be rounded to
the next larger whole number.
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15 NRS 018-3:1995

Conduct the mechanical test given in 5.4.2 on each fitting in the sample from each batch. If any fitting
fails the test, repeat the test with double the sample size. If any fitting fails the second series of tests,
reject the batch.

6 Marking/packing/selection/documentation

6.1 Identification and markings

All ABC fittings and pole fittings shall be durably marked with the manufacturer's identification mark
and fitting reference. Fittings shall be marked to indicate the designated range of the supporting
conductors for which they are intended.

The method of marking shall be stated in schedule B.

6.2 Packing and protection

Only identical assemblies or components shall be packed together.

Packing shall permit easy identification of the fittings, without their having to be removed from the
packing. Each package shall indicate the manufacturer's identification mark, the fitting reference and
size and the number of fittings in the package.

The packing container shall protect the fittings against corrosion and mechanical damage. The
preferred method of packing will be specified in schedule A.

The fittings shall be bulk packed in suitable containers, for example, plastic-lined hessian. The nett
mass in each container shall not exceed 30 kg. Each container shall bear the following information,
on the outside of the container, in addition to the address of the destination and the gross mass:

— the name of the manufacturer;

— the type of fitting;

— the number of fittings;

— the fitting reference and designated range;

— the purchaser's order number; and

— the date of manufacture.

Where shipment on pallets is intended, these shall be suitable for handling by reversible fork lift
trucks.

The following shall be stated in schedule B.

a) the method of packing offered;

b) the number of fittings per package;

c) the corrosion and damage protection method used;

d) a statement of whether the packing is suitable for storage; and

e) the gross mass of bulk packs, in kilograms.

6.3 Selection and installation instructions

 This standard may only be used and printed by approved subscription and freemailing clients of the SABS.

NRS 018-3:1995 16

Manufacturers shall provide comprehensive instructions, in a suitable format, covering the selection
and installation of their fittings with each batch or order. These instructions shall also be stated in
schedule B.

6.4 Documentation

All drawings shall clearly indicate all critical tolerances.

Type test certificate numbers, together with a sample and design details of each type of fitting
required, shall be supplied with the tender.

The results of sample tests shall be supplied in duplicate with each batch or order.
 This standard may only be used and printed by approved subscription and freemailing clients of the SABS.

17 NRS 018-3:1995

KEY

1 Pigtail bolt M16 x 1

2 Nut M16 x 2
3 Round washer M16 x 2
4 Square washer M16 x 2

NOTES
1 To be supplied complete with two hex. nuts, two mild steel round washers and two 50 mm x 50 mm x 5 mm
sq. flat washers.
2 Cold bending will not be allowed.
3 Corrosion protection to SABS 763, type C.
4 Material of bolts to SABS 135, grade 4.8.
5 Material of nuts to SABS 135, grade 5.
6 Nuts threaded to SABS 135 after galvanizing.

Figure 1 — M16 pigtail bolt

 This standard may only be used and printed by approved subscription and freemailing clients of the SABS.

NRS 018-3:1995 18

Dimensions in millimetres

NOTES
1 Manufacture by forging.
2 Material to SABS 135, grade 4.8.
3 Corrosion protection to SABS 763, type C.
4 M16 hole threaded to SABS 135 after galvanizing.

Figure 2 — M16 eye nut

Figure 3 — Diagram of test arrangement and criteria for pole fittings

This standard may only be used and printed by approved subscription and freemailing clients of the SABS.

19 NRS 018-3:1995

Figure 4 — Test arrangement for endurance testing of strain fittings

 This standard may only be used and printed by approved subscription and freemailing clients of the SABS.

NRS 018-3:1995 20

Figure 5 – Schematic test arrangement for endurance testing with oscillations

This standard may only be used and printed by approved subscription and freemailing clients of the SABS.

21 NRS 018-3:1995

Figure 6 – EdF test arrangement for endurance testing of suspensin fittings, with oscillations
 This standard may only be used and printed by approved subscription and freemailing clients of the SABS.

NRS 018-3:1995 22

Figure 7 — Method for fastening masspieces to the supporting conductor

 This standard may only be used and printed by approved subscription and freemailing clients of the SABS.

23 NRS 018-3:1995

ANNEX A
(informative)

Guide to purchasers on preparing an enquiry

A.1 General

A model form is given in annex B to provide the purchaser with a convenient aid to purchasing. The
use of this form is intended to obviate the need for preparing a detailed technical specification.

The purchaser need only specify compliance with this part of NRS 018, provide the tenderers with
details of his particular requirements, and set out the information he requires the tenderer to provide,
as indicated below.

A.2 Schedules

The model form in annex B provides the purchaser with examples of a schedule A and a schedule B.
In his enquiry, the purchaser should provide his own schedule A and schedule B, based on these
examples.

A.2.1 Schedule A

Schedule A lists the requirements to be specified by the purchaser in enquiries and orders. These
requirements include references to the relevant subclauses in this part of NRS 018, to assist in
compiling the schedules.

Where the text of any referenced standards stipulates that the purchaser shall indicate his
requirements, these requirements should also be specified in schedule A.

The purchaser should set out his particular requirements and choices in his own schedule A.

A.2.2 Schedule B

The purchaser should draw up his own schedule B (based on the schedule B in the model form), and
request the tenderer to fill in this schedule. By doing this, the tenderer will be stating compliance with
this part of NRS 018 and will provide the information the purchaser has requested.

NOTES

1 Where this part of NRS 018 allows the purchaser to make a choice, the example of schedule A (in the
model form in annex B) lists the preferred items/values/quantities. In the interests of standardization, purchasers
are encouraged not to deviate from these preferences.

2 When preparing his own schedule A and schedule B from the examples in the model form in annex B, the
purchaser need include only the items he considers to be relevant or necessary.

3 These schedules, when completed, become normative annexes to the enquiry specification.
 This standard may only be used and printed by approved subscription and freemailing clients of the SABS.

NRS 018-3:1995 24

ANNEX A
(concluded)

A.3 Commercial conditions

A purchaser will furthermore need to indicate the commercial conditions applicable and draw up a
price schedule. Requirements for delivery, storage, packing and marking should be attended to in this
part of the enquiry.

A.4 Quality assurance

This part of NRS 018 does not cover the purchaser's possible requirements in respect of quality
assurance, quality control, inspections, etc., since each purchaser needs to consider the criticality of
the application of each component, his own policy towards these matters, etc. Purchasers are referred
to SABS ISO 9001, SABS ISO 9002 and SABS ISO 9003 for guidance.

A.5 Testing

Attention should be paid to the subject of tests and the related costs. Tests should be carried out by a
competent party and tenderers should be requested to provide assurances on this point. Price
schedules should be so drawn up and covering letters so worded that the costs of all services such as
tests, delivery and spares are declared and allowed for in the tender.

Before type tests and routine tests are carried out on samples, the number of samples used and the
frequency of sampling should be agreed upon with the supplier.

A.6 Revisions of standards used as normative references

This part of NRS 018, as has been indicated, is based on a set of defined standards which may have
been revised or amended. Most purchasers would, in principle, wish to employ the latest standards.
The recommended approach to this question is to secure an undertaking from a supplier to review the
latest versions and amendments and to incorporate these where possible and agreeable to both
parties. A blanket commitment to work to the "latest" versions of standards creates legal difficulties of
interpretation and risks for both parties and should be properly assessed. This invariably cannot be
done in the time available.
 This standard may only be used and printed by approved subscription and freemailing clients of the SABS.

25 NRS 018-3:1995

ANNEX B
(informative)

Model form for schedules A and B

Schedule A : Purchaser's specific requirements

Schedule B : Guarantees and particulars of equipment to be supplied

1 2 3 4 5
Item Subclause Description Schedule A Schedule B
B.1 General
4 (Note 3) Fittings are required for the following:
a) standard of manufacture of ABC SCSSCAAD5 xxxxxxxxxx
Rev. 2
4 (Note 2) b) cross-sectional area of: —————
phase conductors mm2 ————— xxxxxxxxxx
supporting conductor mm2 ————— xxxxxxxxxx
earth conductor (if applicable) mm2 ————— xxxxxxxxxx
auxiliary conductor (if applicable) mm2 ————— —————
4 (Note 3) c) breaking force of supporting
conductor kN ————— —————
B.2 4 (Note 1) Types of fittings required and quantities:
a) strain fittings ————— —————
b) suspension fittings ————— —————
c) pole fittings ————— —————
— pigtail bolts ————— —————
— eye nuts ————— —————
B.3 4.1.2 Type of UV stabilized material xxxxxxxxxx —————
B.4 4.1.3 Are all non-metallic components to
satisfy the glow-wire test requirements of
IEC 695-2-1/1? Yes/No xxxxxxxxxx
4.1.6 Colour of fitting insulating parts Blue xxxxxxxxxx
B.5 5.1 Test authority
Approved PERSON/ORGANIZATION ————— xxxxxxxxxx
B.6 4.3 Strain fittings
Range of conductor cross-sectional areas
for the fitting from mm2 35 —————
2
to mm 50 —————
2
Other conductor sizes if required mm ————— xxxxxxxxxx
B.7 5.2 Type tests on strain fittings
6.4 NOTE — State test certificate No. in
schedule B.

5.2.2 Dielectric test on fitting installed on

supporting conductor Yes/No —————
 This standard may only be used and printed by approved subscription and freemailing clients of the SABS.

NRS 018-3:1995 26

ANNEX B
(continued)

1 2 3 4 5
Item Subclause Description Schedule A Schedule B
5.2.3 Tensile test Yes/No —————
5.2.4 Accelerated weathering test Yes/No —————
5.2.5 Combined mechanical and thermal Yes/No —————
endurance test
5.2.6 Corrosion test Yes/No —————
B.8 4.6 Suspension fittings
4.3 Range of conductor cross-sectional areas
for the fitting from mm2 35 —————
to mm2 50 —————
other conductor sizes if required mm2 ————— —————
B.9 5.3 Type tests on suspension fittings ————— —————
6.4 NOTE — State test certificate No. in
schedule B.

5.3.2 Dielectric test on fitting installed on the

supporting conductor Yes/No —————
5.3.3 Tensile test on fitting/fitting with movable Yes/No —————
link
5.3.4 Slippage test Yes/No —————
5.3.5 Accelerated weathering test Yes/No —————
5.3.6 Endurance test with oscillations Yes/No —————
5.3.7 Corrosion test Yes/No —————
B.10 4.7 Pole fittings
4.7.5 Thread length of pigtail bolts if other than
300 mm mm ————— xxxxxxxxxx
5.4 Type test on pole fittings
6.4 NOTE — State test certificate No. in
schedule B.

5.4.2 Mechanical Test Yes/No —————

Actual distortion of:
— pigtail dimension ∆A mm xxxxxxxxxx —————
— pigtail dimension ∆Bmm xxxxxxxxxx —————
 This standard may only be used and printed by approved subscription and freemailing clients of the SABS.

27 NRS 018-3:1995

ANNEX B
(concluded)

1 2 3 4 5
Item Subclause Description Schedule A Schedule B
B.11 6.1 Method of marking components xxxxxxxxxx —————
6.2 Preferred method of packing Individually/
collective —————
Method of packing offered xxxxxxxxxx —————
Number of fittings per package xxxxxxxxxx —————
Corrosion and damage protection method xxxxxxxxxx —————
Packing suitable for storage? xxxxxxxxxx Yes/No
Gross mass of bulk packs kg 30 —————
6.3 Details of installation instructions provided xxxxxxxxxx —————
 This standard may only be used and printed by approved subscription and freemailing clients of the SABS.

NRS 018-3:1995 28

ANNEX C
(informative)

Bibliography

The following documents, were a source of reference in compiling this part of NRS 018. They do not
constitute provisions of this part of NRS 018 but are referenced for further information.

HN 20 E 71:1991, Accessories of insulated cables for low-voltage overhead lines and service lines —
Corrosion test.

HN 33 E60:1988, Weathering ageing test applicable to synthetic materials and to electrical

distribution equipment exposed to solar radiation and to weathering.

HN 33 S67:1981, Mechanical suspension fittings for low-voltage aerial bundled conductors —

Performance and testing requirements.

HN 33 S68:1981, Strain fittings for low-voltage aerial bundled conductors — Performance and
testing requirements.

NF C 20-540-1990, Environmental tests — Test methods — Climatic ageing test for synthetic
materials and equipment for external use.

NF C 20-711:1987, Basic climatic and mechanical strength (robustness) tests — Test methods —
Ka test: salt spray.

NF T 30-055:1974, Paint — testing of the resistance to humid atmospheres containing sulfur dioxide.

SABS 1418-1:1986, Aerial bundled conductor systems — Part 1: Cores.

Amendment No. 3 August 1994.

SABS ISO 9001:1994, Quality systems — Model for quality assurance in design, development,
production, installation and servicing.

SABS ISO 9002:1994, Quality systems — Model for quality assurance in production, installation and
servicing.

SABS ISO 9003:1994, Quality systems — Model for quality assurance in final inspection and test.