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PVC extension cable waterproof connector in the use of daily maintenance points and troubleshooting
Release time:2024-12-11
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In the field of modern electrical equipment connection, PVC extension wire waterproof connector is widely used because of its good waterproof performance and convenient connection function. Whether it is outdoor lighting systems, garden irrigation equipment, or some temporary outdoor electrical facilities, it plays a vital role. However, as with any electrical component, in order to ensure its long-term stable operation and ensure electrical safety, regular maintenance and the timely elimination
1. Check appearance
◦ Frequency: Monthly appearance inspection is recommended, and for some harsh environments (such as seaside, chemical areas, etc.) or frequently used places, the number of inspections can be appropriately increased, every half month or even once a week.
◦ Check content:
▪ First check the shell of the connector, and the PVC material should have no obvious cracks, deformation or damage. Even tiny cracks can cause water to invade, affecting its water resistance. During inspection, you can gently touch the surface of the shell with your hand to feel if there is any unevenness or cracks.
▪ Observe the sealing area, such as around the rubber seal ring, for aging, hardening, cracking or displacement. The sealing ring is the key line of defense for waterproof, and once there is a problem, the waterproof function will be greatly reduced. If the seal ring is slightly deformed, you can try to reset it and observe the subsequent use; If the aging is serious, replace it in time.
▪ Check the wires at the connection ports for frayed, torn, or exposed wires. Frayed wire skin can pose a risk of short circuit or leakage, especially in humid environments. If the wire is found to be slightly worn, you can use insulation tape to wrap and repair; If the wear is serious, the entire length of the wire needs to be replaced.
▪ Check the connector surface for stains, dust, or other foreign objects. Too much dust may affect the heat dissipation performance of the connector, while the stain may contain corrosive substances that can erode the housing and metal parts over a long period of time. You can use a clean soft cloth to gently wipe the surface to remove dust and stains.
2. Electrical performance testing
◦ Frequency: A more comprehensive electrical performance test every quarter is more appropriate. However, after the equipment is first installed, moved, or has experienced an abnormal electrical event (such as lightning, short circuit trip, etc.), it should be tested immediately.
◦ Detection method:
▪ Resistance measurement: Use the resistance stop of a multimeter to measure the resistance between the wires connected at both ends of the connector. Under normal circumstances, the resistance value should be within a reasonable range, and vary according to the specifications and lengths of the wires. If the resistance value is too large, it may indicate that the connection point has poor contact, and you need to further check the connection part. For example, for common copper wire connections, if the resistance value is significantly higher than the resistance value of normal copper wires, you need to disassemble the connector to see whether the internal connection point is loose, oxidized or has impurities.
▪ Insulation resistance test: This is an important means to test the insulation performance of the connector. Using an insulation resistance tester, connect the test probe to the wire conductor and housing of the connector respectively, apply the specified test voltage (generally 500V or 1000V), and measure the insulation resistance value. Insulation resistance value should meet the requirements of the relevant standards, usually should be greater than a certain value (such as 1 megohm). If the insulation resistance value is too low, it indicates that the insulation performance deteriorates, which may be caused by water intrusion, aging of the insulation material, or conductive foreign bodies in the interior. In this case, you need to disassemble the connector, clean the interior, check the status of the insulation parts, and replace the insulation materials if necessary.
▪ Voltage drop test: When the circuit connected to the connector is under normal working load, the voltage tester is used to measure the voltage drop at both ends of the connector. An excessive voltage drop may mean that the contact resistance of the connector is too large, resulting in excessive loss of electrical energy at the connection point. In general, the voltage drop should be controlled within a certain percentage range, such as not exceeding 5% of the total line voltage. If the voltage drop exceeds the threshold, check the tightness of the connection points, cleanliness, and oxidation of metal components, and take appropriate measures.
Water leakage fault
◦ Reasons:
▪ Seal failure: Rubber seals, the most common waterproof seal component, can age, harden, crack or lose elasticity over time due to prolonged compression, exposure to ultraviolet light, high temperatures, chemicals and other environmental factors, and thus cannot seal effectively. For example, in the outdoor environment of direct sunlight, the rubber molecules in the rubber seal will gradually decompose, resulting in a decline in its physical properties.
▪ Shell damage: PVC shell may crack, hole or deform due to external impact, long-term vibration or chemical corrosion in harsh environments. If at the construction site, the connector may be damaged by the tool by mistake; In chemical parks, acidic or alkaline gases may erode the PVC shell, reducing its strength and causing breakage.
Improper installation: During installation, if the sealing ring is not properly installed, such as the sealing ring position is offset, distorted, or not fully embedded in the sealing slot, or the connector connection part is not tightened to the appropriate degree, it may lead to decreased waterproof performance. For example, threaded connectors that are not tightened according to the specified torque when installed may leave gaps in the interface, allowing moisture to enter.
Poor contact fault
◦ Reasons:
▪ Weak wire connection: If the wire is not fully inserted into the wiring terminal of the connector or the fastening screw of the wiring terminal is not tightened, the wire may gradually loosen during the operation of the device due to vibration and other factors, resulting in increased contact resistance and poor contact. For example, in some temporary outdoor electrical equipment, due to the rush of installation, there may be a situation where the wire is not inserted deeply.
▪ Oxidation or corrosion of conductive parts: The conductive metal parts inside the connector are prone to oxidation or corrosion in a humid or corrosive gas environment. Oxide layer or corrosion will increase the contact resistance, affecting the normal transmission of current. For example, in coastal or industrially polluted areas, salt or chemical pollutants in the air can accelerate the corrosion of metal components.
Long-term overload operation: If the power of the connected electrical equipment exceeds the rated power of the connector, long-term overload operation will cause the conductive parts of the connector to heat, resulting in deformation of the metal structure, which will affect the contact performance. For example, connect a high-power motor to a PVC extension cord waterproof connector with a smaller power rating, and after continuous operation for a period of time, the connector may have poor contact problems.
Water leakage troubleshooting
◦ If the seal fails:
▪ First, carefully disassemble the connector and remove any aged or damaged seals. When selecting a new sealing ring, ensure that its specifications match the connector, and the material should have good weather resistance and chemical resistance. For example, for connectors used outdoors, silicone rubber seals can be selected, which have good UV resistance and aging resistance.
▪ Install the new seal ring correctly in the seal groove, ensuring that the seal ring is flat, free of distortion, and fully embedded in the groove. During the installation process, a small amount of silicone grease can be applied on the surface of the sealing ring to improve its sealing performance and lubricity and facilitate installation.
◦ If the case is damaged:
▪ For minor cracks or holes, special PVC glue can be used to repair them. First clean the damaged part, remove dust, oil and other impurities, and then evenly apply the glue to the cracks or holes, until the glue is completely dry and solidified, and then test the waterproof performance.
▪ If the housing is severely damaged, such as large area rupture or deformation, it is recommended to replace the entire connector. In the replacement, to choose reliable quality, meet the requirements of the use of environmental products, and in accordance with the correct installation method for installation.
◦ If it is improperly installed:
▪ For threaded connectors, retighten the connection according to the specified torque to ensure a tight and seamless interface. The torque wrench can be used to ensure the accuracy of tightening.
▪ For other types of connectors, check whether the connection method is correct, for example, whether the bayonet is firmly stuck and whether the pluggable connector is properly inserted. If there is a problem, timely adjustment and repair.
Troubleshooting of poor contact
◦ If the wire connection is not strong:
▪ Disassemble the connector, reinsert the wire into the terminal, make sure it is inserted deep enough, and tighten the fastening screws on the terminal. When tightening the screws, pay attention to moderate strength, avoid too tight lead to wire damage or too loose lead to poor contact.
▪ For multi-core wires, check the connection of each core wire to ensure that the wires are neatly arranged without crossing or loosening. You can use tools such as needle-nose pliers to arrange and secure the core wires.
◦ In case of oxidation or corrosion of conductive components:
▪ For mildly oxidized conductive parts, the oxide layer can be sanded and cleaned using sandpaper or a special metal cleaner. During the cleaning process, care should be taken to avoid damaging the body structure of the metal parts. After cleaning, wipe clean with a clean cloth and apply a thin layer of conductive paste to improve contact performance.
▪ For severely corroded conductive parts, should be replaced in time. When replacing, choose a replacement with the same specification and material as the original part, and ensure that the installation is correct. At the same time, measures should be taken to improve the use of the environment, such as increasing moisture-proof, anti-corrosion devices.
◦ If long-term overload operation:
▪ First, check whether the power of the connected electrical equipment exceeds the rated power of the connector. If so, replace the connector with a higher power rating, or adjust the load on the electrical equipment so that it operates within the rated power range of the connector.
▪ For connectors with poor contact due to overload, in addition to replacing suitable connectors, it is also necessary to check the connected wires and electrical equipment to see if there is damage due to overload. If so, repair or replace them in time.
Routine maintenance and troubleshooting of PVC extension waterproof connectors are essential to ensure the safe and stable operation of electrical systems. The development of a scientific and reasonable regular maintenance plan, timely detection and treatment of common faults, can extend the service life of the connector, reduce the safety accidents and economic losses caused by electrical failures. In actual operation, maintenance personnel should have certain electrical knowledge and skills, and operate in strict accordance with the specifications and requirements formulated by the relevant PVC extension cable waterproof connector manufacturers to ensure the effectiveness and reliability of maintenance work.