FAQS   

Frequently Asked Questions about CableCURE® Technology

Here are the answers to some common questions that we get asked. If you don't see an answer to a question that you have, please email international@utilx.com and we'll get back to you with an answer.


What type of cable can you inject?
We can inject Stranded Conductor, URD, Feeder, Submarine, and Secondary cable.

How long does it take for the CB liquid to set to a solid?
CableCURE/CB is a two part mixture consisting of Silicone fluid and a small adjustable amount of catalyst. The amount of time it takes for the liquid to set to the semi-solid gel is subject to several variables. Depending on length, pair-count and environment the process can take up to any time frame between 48 hours to 30 days.

Can you treat pulp / paper cable?
The procedure differs from the treatment of PIC (plastic insulated) cables, but the end result is the same.

What is the maximum length of cable you can inject?
Length is not a restrictive factor. We have successfully treated submarine cables that stretched across Lake Erie that were 5.8 km long.

What is the maximum length of cable that can be injected?
This depends on several variables, i.e. size, pair count, splices and type of cable. Typically the injection from manhole to manhole or pedestal to pedestal is not a problem. To give a number, we can say PIC/Plastic cable can run up to 600 meters, while paper/pulp cable should be kept under 200-250 meters.

How does the fluid get from one end of the cable to the other?
We pressurize the fluid on one side of the segment and draw a vacuum on the other which hastens the fluid through the segment.

Will the fluid go through our splices?
This depends on the splice type, and the craftwork that transpired upon installation.

How does the cost of our service compare to the cost of cable replacement?
CableCURE/ CB injection costs 40% to 80% less than replacement, cables remain in service during treatment and no digging is required.

Is it possible to re-enter cable and splices after treatment? How hard is it to re-enter the splice?
CableCURE/CB is a non-sticky insulating gel that can be reentered whether cable or splice, if you need to reenter the splice after treating it with CableCURE/CB fluid, you simply unwind the zip cord and the compound peels off cleanly. It’s quick, it’s easy, it doesn’t require use of a solvent, and there is no sticky mess to deal with.

We have a lot of T and Y connections, can you inject through these?
No. We traditionally re-terminate these types of connections if it is economically feasible.

Who makes the injection components and will it meet our standards?
We work with several major manufactures. I.e. Elastimold (T&B), Cooper, Raychem, and 3M.

Would you please describe the testing process you perform in qualifying the cable segment? Is this test a discharge test?
We perform two types of tests when qualifying a candidate for CableCURE injection. 1) We perform a Time Domain Reflectometer (TDR) test which assesses the level of neutral corrosion and the number of splices on each cable segment, and 2) we perform an air test which allows us to verify flow capability. Both of these tests are not partial discharge tests and neither one of them is destructive in any form.

How much time will it take to perform the injection?
This depends upon the conductor size and characteristics. Typically, a 100 m. run of 150 mm² conductor size would take 5 hours or less to flow through the cable. This includes the time necessary to remove, test, and replace components.

Is the fluid safe?
CableCURE has been tested and complies with even the most stringent environmental laws of the state of California. CableCURE MSDS sheets are provided prior to initiating service to every customer and may be found elsewhere on this site.

How long will the fluid stay in the cable?
The fluid diffuses from the conductor strands into the insulation of the cable. It oligomerizes and remains in the insulation for many years.

Does the fluid turn to jelly?
No. It does change its molecular structure upon reacting with water and forms larger molecules, but it is not meant to fill the interstices in the conductor strand area.

How do we handle this product once you guys leave?
With less than a 1% failure rate, the potential for you to handle this product is minimal. We do, however, provide training to customers prior to initiating our service, and the products which are temporarily left behind include an attached instruction document identifying handling procedures.

What’s the cost?
This depends on the extent of your needs. Cost is a function of several inputs, such as the type of cable, the length of cable, and the scope of work involved. In almost every case, your savings overall are substantial.

In an attempt to save money, can we install the elbows prior to your arrival?
Yes, we will train your craftsmen to install injection elbows. Most customers that opt for this, waive the requirement of identifying neutral corrosion. In order to perform a TDR, we must remove the termination.

We do not have a huge budget, what is the minimum amount you charge?
We do not have an established minimum charge. Each opportunity is reviewed for effectiveness, both for the customer as well as us. Typically, we would like to see at least a weeks worth of work since our delivery requires mobilization of crew and equipment. A week typically involves 5,000 feet or more of candidate cable.

How does the warranty work?
To activate the warranty, all you have to do is complete a simple one-page standard form.

Do you have references?
Yes, we can forward you a list of several utilities.

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