Data Center

Dual water blocking insulation protects underground conductor cable

Aug. 21, 2013

Water is one of the enemies of long-life in primary cable, as water entering the cable core can lead to premature failure.

Matt Vincent

Hendrix/Kerite Cable (Marmon Utility, LLC), a supplier of underground power distribution technology, has announced its Dual Block product, an insulation option that provides a dual water blocking capability on Hendrix's primary, underground cable. The company notes that water is one of the enemies of long-life in primary cable, as water entering the cable core can lead to premature failure. The Hendrix Dual Block technology helps prevent this from occurring.

See also: Brief outlines risks of 26-AWG data center cabling

More: The craft of permanently joining conductors

First, a fill compound is continuously applied into the conductor interstices. This prevents longitudinal water migration. Second, a water-swellable powder is applied under the polyethylene jacket. This prevents water from migrating along the neutral wires, under the jacket. Taken together, these two applications provide a reliable barrier that prevents water from entering the cable core.

Dual Block is an option for all stranded conductor Hendrix cables. For more information, visit www.hendrix-wc.com

Related: Advisory note details impact of copper-clad aluminum conductor cables

About the Author

Matt Vincent | Senior Editor

Matt Vincent is a B2B technology journalist, editor and content producer with over 15 years of experience, specializing in the full range of media content production and management, as well as SEO and social media engagement best practices, for both Cabling Installation & Maintenance magazine and its website CablingInstall.com. He currently provides trade show, company, executive and field technology trend coverage for the ICT structured cabling, telecommunications networking, data center, IP physical security, and professional AV vertical market segments. Email: [email protected]