What is an Insulation Piercing Connector (IPC)?

What is an Insulation Piercing Connector (IPC)?

An Insulation Piercing Connector (IPC) is a device, similar to a line tap used on overhead lines, that enables a branch connection to be made to an existing insulated cable. Its key feature is that it eliminates the need to strip the cable’s insulation. Instead, a specially designed shear-head bolt is tightened to a specific torque, which causes its sharp components to pierce through the insulation and make direct contact with the conductor, while simultaneously forming a weatherproof seal. This is a well-established technology in some industries, particularly in electrical distribution networks, but it is not generally used on the consumer’s side of the installation.

Are IPCs Suitable for Use on PVC Consumer’s Tails?

Equipment should only be used within the scope of its standard. The scope of the relevant standard, BS EN 50483-4:2009, specifies that it applies to connectors used on Aerial Bundled Cables (ABC) as defined in HD 626. PVC consumer’s tails, however, are manufactured to a different standard (BS 6004, 6181Y). Therefore, they fall outside the scope of this IPC standard. Consequently, this type of IPC should not be used on consumers’ installations, and on PVC consumer tails in particular.

What are the Advantages of Using IPCs?

Speed and Efficiency: Connections made with IPCs are significantly faster than traditional termination methods, which require stripping, cleaning, and often insulating the connection.

Live Working: They can often be installed without the need to isolate the electrical supply. It is critical to note that this practice falls under the legal definition of ‘live working’. Any personnel engaging in live working must be able to justify the decision and must possess the appropriate training and equipment to ensure the work is carried out safely.

Applications of Insulation Piercing Connectors

IPCs are versatile and used in various scenarios, including:

Distribution Networks: Connecting low-voltage (LV) and high-voltage (HV) insulated lines, providing a robust and well-insulated connection.

Service Connections: Establishing connections from the main LV network to service cables for individual properties.

Common Use Cases: The four principal applications are for street lights, tap-off points, distribution box charging, and jumper connections.

Other Applications:

Low-voltage insulated household wire T-connections.

T-connections in building power distribution systems.

Street lamp distribution systems and field branches from ordinary cables.

Connections in underground power grid cables.Line connections for landscape lighting (e.g., lawn and flower bed lighting).