Step Five: Installation Techniques

To properly strip some kinds of high-temperature wire, you must first separate the outer braid and carefully pull it back to the required length. Next, trim the braid before you strip the wire using a utility knife or razor blade.

For the most part, installing high-temperature wire and cable is identical to installing regular wire and cable. There are four basic differences, however, that you need to pay attention to.

• Pulling.When pulling high-temperature cable insulated with a braided material, consider using a pulling eye instead of a basket grip to prevent damage to the jacket.

• Stripping.Although many insulation materials can be stripped using conventional stripping tools, such as stripping shears, some materials require special techniques. When stripping mica tape insulation, for example, it's best to use a utility knife or razor blade to avoid damaging the insulation. Stripping shears can crush the insulation where they grip, which can lead to termination failure.

• Terminations.Termination material should be compatible with conductor material. For example, make sure you use nickel or nickel-coated copper lugs when terminating a nickel conductor. Mismatched lugs and conductors lead to increased oxidation and pitting of the wire surface, and they may make welding or soldering difficult. Most connector manufacturers offer a line of high-temperature lugs and connectors.

  Before inserting high-temperature cable into a conductor, apply a dry lubricant such as talc or gypsum to the cable.

• Lubrication.Stay away from water or oil-based lubricants and detergents when installing high-temperature wire or cable. These materials can compromise the electrical integrity of the insulation. Instead use a wax-based or dry lubricant, such as talc or gypsum.