OFR-58-77 Development Of A Crimp Connector For Trailing Cable Splices

The purpose of the work covered by this contract is to develop a means of designing splice connectors which will significantly improve mine trailing cable splice performance. A brief discussion on splice problems is presented as an introductory means and substantiates the need for the development and test programs outlined in this report. Because of the empirical nature of this effort, time has been devoted to explaining the derivations of the test procedures used. Special attention is given to the splice flexing machine which served as the backbone of the test program. In order to familiarize persons with connector terminology, a section is devoted to a glossary of pertinent terms. Various types of cable joints are also defined. The major effort is a connector design parameter study. Utilizing the optimum parameters developed along with the suggested design procedure outlined in Appendix I should result in significantly improved splice performance and thus meet the objectives of this contract. A field test program was instituted for the purpose of insuring adaptability of connector design and associated installation tooling along with a field performance study. During the course of work, other significant factors affecting splice performance were uncovered. Although not covered by the scope of this contract, a brief discussion is presented for the purpose of stimulating interest in what is considered other fruitful areas for improved splice performance.