Do bi-metallic lugs require special crimping tools for installation?

BI-METALLIC LUGS necessitate the use of appropriate crimping tools and dies to guarantee a safe, reliable, and low-resistance electric connection. Since the purpose of these lugs is to link aluminium wires with copper terminals or busbars, proper crimping becomes crucial in keeping up power flow and averting both mechanical and heat issues.

Usually, a bi-metallic lug is crimped at the aluminum side with either a hydraulic or a mechanical crimping tool fitted with a die that is exactly matched to the size of the lug and the area of the cable. These dies are specially made to exert equal pressure, and this way it is ensured that the aluminum conductor is tightly compressed within the lug without causing any harm to the barrel. The use of either wrong dies or too small dies can lead to poor contact, overheating, or eventual connection failure.

The side of BI-METALLIC LUGS that is made of copper is not crimped; instead, it is directly connected to the actuator or bus bar by means of a bolt. During the process of installation, the application of the right amount of torque is necessary to get a solid and low-resistance connection. In many instances, the application of anti-oxidation compounds on the aluminum conductor is suggested as a long-term performance booster.

Firms such as PIONEER POWER INTERNATIONAL offer very comprehensive installation manuals for their BI-METALLIC LUGS which give not only the tools and crimping methods but also the correct way to go about the whole process. By adhering to these guidelines, the electrical standards of industry and commercial installations would be met in terms of safety, durability, and even international compliance.