Increasing Safety with Effective Crossarms Extensions by Rauckman

Temporary crossarm extensions, also commonly known as Hot Arms or Extension Arms are an important hotline tool which aid in temporarily holding conductors while utility line workers perform conductor line or insulator maintenance on a crossarm. They allow line workers to avoid cutting off power to the end user during maintenance. Hot Arms are also valuable hotline tools that can be used for moving conductors away from a work area, such as during road widening.

What to Look for When Choosing Hot Arms

When choosing Hot Arms that are ideal for replacing or working on dead-end crossarms, ensure their composition of electrical-grade fiberglass and foam, can safely withstand the rigorous electrical environment they are exposed to when used with live line. To ensure that your temporary crossarms offer exceptional resilience and durability, it is important to make sure they meet ASTM F711 standards.

Hot Arm Durability

Temporary crossarm extensions should meet ASTM F-711 standards. This standard applies specifically to the durability and safety of the fiberglass reinforced plastic rod portion of the arm during the manufacturing process. Durable temporary crossarms are typically constructed using electrical-grade fiberglass reinforced thermoset resins surrounding a uni-cell foam core.

Which Safety Standards Apply to Hot Arms?

Safety for lineworkers is paramount in the development of Hot Arms. Hot Arms should meet ASTM F-711 standards, which shapes the technical attributes for fiberglass-reinforced rods intended for use in live line tools.

Two common questions regarding hot arms are whether they are required to meet ASTM F-3121 or OSHA 1910.269 standards. ASTM F-3121 is for use of hand-held live line insulating tools for in-field care, use, and testing guidelines. This only applies to the fiberglass stick.OSHA regulations cover Personal Protective Equipment (PPE); however, Hot Arms, not classified as PPE, would not fall under the umbrella of OSHA 1910.269 standards.

Customization of Hot Arms

Choosing a manufacturer that offers customization for your temporary crossarms ensures you are covered for specific field tasks. Hot Arm extensions can be customized with a variety of attachments to meet your specific requirements. Whether you are changing insulators, installing or replacing hardware, or stringing new conductors, choosing a supplier that offers versatility in attachments allows you to work safely in various situations.

Hot Arms can be customized using an extensive selection of hotline tool products and attachments. Attachments to the Hot Arm itself include Hot Arm Wireholders, with a generous 1” opening to accept conductors up to 795 ACSR, and Wireholder insulators. Insulators allow for Hot Arms to be used on circuits up to 34.5 kV, rather than the typical 15 kV circuits. In inclement weather or if the arms are left out overnight, adding insulators on the Wireholders is recommended.

Choose Rauckman for Reliable Hotline Tools

Rauckman is a leading manufacturer for electrical utility companies, and we would love to be your product partner. For more information on our Hot Arms, click here. To get in contact with a Rauckman expert, visit our contact page and fill out the form. One of us will get in touch with you shortly.

Universal Hotsticks, One-Piece

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How to Enhance Power System Reliability with Rauckman’s Bushing and Conductor Covers

In the electric utility sector, ensuring a seamless power supply is a critical concern. Rauckman innovatively addresses this through our bushing and conductor covers, which play an essential role in averting one of the subtler yet frequent reasons for power disruptions: the interaction with wildlife.

Bushing Covers: A Cover-Up Solution for Wildlife-Induced Outages

Rauckman’s Bushing Covers are an essential product in our animal mitigation product line. These covers serve a vital role in preventing animals, such as squirrels and birds, from creating fatal and costly phase-to-phase or phase-to-ground connections on pole-mounted distribution transformers. The significance of this innovation lies in its ability to minimize power outages caused by wildlife, thereby enhancing the overall reliability of power systems, and reducing unplanned service interruption

Engineered for Durability and Safety

The Bushing Cover is not just a cover but a sophisticated piece of engineering. It is crafted from a high performance polymer, specially formulated to meet the stringent demands of the electric utility industry. This material is track-resistant, ensuring that it remains effective over time without degradation in performance.

Flexible polymer material. Photo source: Electronics Weekly

Furthermore, the cover boasts high Ultra-Violet (UV) stability, incorporating Hindered Amine Light Stabilization (HALS) technology. This feature is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the cover under various environmental conditions, particularly under constant exposure to sunlight.

In addition to its resilience against environmental factors, Rauckman’s Bushing Cover is designed with safety as a priority. It possesses Flame Retardant properties, meeting the V-0 criteria of the Underwriters’ Laboratory Standard of UL-94. This certification is a testament to the product’s ability to withstand and inhibit the spread of fire, ensuring a safer power distribution network.

Conductor Covers: Enhancing Safety and Reliability

Complementing the Bushing Covers, Rauckman’s Conductor Covers are another innovative solution designed to improve the reliability and safety of power distribution systems.

Unique Design for Optimal Performance

These covers are made from an engineered formula, chosen for its track resistance and suitability for the electric utility industry’s rigorous requirements. The conductor covers feature a unique pre-slit design with a generous material overlap. This design is the result of a unique manufacturing process that not only ensures the cover’s flexibility but also its ability to retain its shape and characteristics over time.

The conductor features a pre-made slit to ensure stability.

Tested for Endurance

Rauckman’s commitment to quality and durability is evident in the rigorous testing these conductor covers undergo. They maintain all their characteristics even after 2500 hours in ASTM G-154 UV and Humidity test conditions. This level of endurance testing ensures that the covers can withstand harsh environmental conditions while continuing to provide reliable protection.

All Rauckman Utility Products meet ASTM standards.

A Step Towards More Reliable Power Distribution

Rauckman’s Bushing and Conductor Covers represent a significant advancement in the effort to mitigate power outages caused by wildlife. With our specialized design, high-quality materials, and rigorous testing, these products are essential components in ensuring a more reliable and safer power distribution network.

Bushing Cover

Animal Mitigation, Product Articles|

The HOLDTAG Tagging Device R-TD2: Redefining Superiority in the Electric Utility Sector

In a world where precise and durable equipment is undeniably crucial, we aim to continue to elevate the standards for electric utility tools. Introducing the HOLDTAG Tagging Device R-TD2 – a product built with a clear understanding of the nuances and demands of electric utility applications. Its unique design and unmatched features position it leagues ahead of competing products. Here’s why:

In conclusion, Rauckman’s HOLDTAG Tagging Device is more than just a tagging device; it’s a commitment to efficiency, durability, and precision. While there might be many tagging devices on the market, few can boast the superior design and functionality of the R-TD2. Upgrade to the best and experience the difference for yourself.

BlockJaw Terminal Block Tagging

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The ZAPshield: The Pinnacle of Animal Mitigation Solutions

In the world of utility infrastructure, the continuous and uninterrupted flow of electricity is paramount. Interruptions, especially those caused by animals, can lead to outages, substantial financial losses, and even harm to the animals themselves. We want to highlight one of our most reliable and safe solutions: the ZAPshield.

What is the ZAPshield?

The ZAPshield, a flagship product in Rauckman’s animal mitigation line, is designed to deter animals from transformer bushings. It ingeniously conditions animals to stay away by employing the patent-pending Rauck-Shock technology. Instead of causing harm, this technology delivers a non-lethal electrostatic discharge when animals come into contact with it. This slight jolt is enough to deter them from returning, ensuring both the safety of the animals and the smooth operation of electrical equipment.

The Inspiration

The design of the ZAPshield and Rauck-Shock technology, is derived from the principles found in Faraday’s law of induction. This principle ensures that the discharge is both safe for animals and effective in keeping them at bay.

Installation – Efficient and Hassle-Free

One of the standout features of the ZAPshield is its hassle-free installation process. Utilities won’t have to worry about prolonged downtimes or extensive preparations. The ZAPshield can be installed ‘hot’, meaning there’s no need to power down or disrupt services.

When it comes to the tools required for installation, we’ve got you covered. Whether you choose to use a Shotgun Stick, Universal Tool Pliers, or the accompanying Rauckman W-100 Universal Tool, the process remains straightforward and efficient.

Our Goal

The ZAPshield is proof to our dedication to providing top-notch solutions to utilities worldwide. Our products not only ensure the seamless flow of electricity but also prioritize the well-being of our environment and the creatures that inhabit it.

One-Piece Tangent Cover

Animal Mitigation, News & Information, Product Articles|

Wildlife Shield by Rauckman: Minimizing Animal-Related Electric Service Interruptions

In the multifaceted world of utility management, animals have been recognized as significant contributors to unexpected power disruptions. Only weather outpaces animal interference as a cause for unplanned outages. That’s why Rauckman has introduced the Wildlife Shield, a revolutionary tool designed to tackle this exact issue.

Why Wildlife Shield?

The Wildlife Shield is crafted explicitly to be easily mounted on distribution & substation equipment bushings, effectively minimizing the instances of animal-related electric service interruptions. As part of Rauckman’s esteemed line of animal mitigation products, the Wildlife Shield brings a new level of control and safety.

Geographical Variations in Challenges

From squirrels in the Midwest to birds along the coastlines, the types of animals that infiltrate utility equipment differ widely from region to region. The Wildlife Shield, available in three different size models, ensures a flexible solution tailored to various applications.

Color and Design Customization

Customize your shield with red or grey color options. While there are no physical differences between the colors, this customization allows the utility to match or contrast with existing equipment as per preference.

Technology and Classification

Constructed with advanced special polymer technology, these shields are suitable for severe environments, assuring longevity and reliability. Their UL94 Classification of V-0 denotes top-notch quality and safety standards.

Easy and Safe Installation

The Wildlife Shield can be installed hot without requiring downtime, thus not disrupting ongoing services. Field trimmed inserts enable virtually any shield to fit most insulators or bushings, making them versatile and adaptable.

For installation, all that’s needed are tools like a Shotgun Stick and a Pair of Pliers (for trimming the inserts if necessary), ensuring a straightforward process that doesn’t hinder routine operations.

Conclusion

Rauckman’s Wildlife Shield isn’t merely a tool; it’s a testament to innovation and our commitment to uninterrupted electric services. By protecting against animal infiltration, which varies across different geographical regions, this shield is an essential investment for every utility company.

For more information on forming a personalized wildlife protection plan or to place an order, feel free to contact us.

One-Piece Tangent Cover

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The Indispensable Tagging Devices for Utility Lineworkers

In the demanding and high-risk world of utility lineworkers, safety and efficiency are paramount. Tagging devices are one such essential tool found in every lineworker’s toolbox, ensuring the safe and efficient operation of utility services. At Rauckman, we specialize in providing high-quality, durable, and reliable tagging devices, designed with the unique needs of utility lineworkers in mind.

Why are tagging devices so important? These devices allow lineworkers to identifying temporary conditions or general identification procedures, a critical safety practice for any line worker. This process ensures clear communication of potential hazards or conditions. Tagging devices, therefore, play an essential role in preventing accidents and ensuring worker safety.

Rauckman Utility Products offers a diverse range of tagging devices suitable for different applications, each designed for durability, ease of use, and with the utmost safety considerations in mind.

The HoldTag for overhead tagging, applies easily via hotstick for safe, direct tagging.

The Pistol Grip Switch Cover Tag, designed for control panel switches, secures the switch in the off position.

The BlockJaw Terminal Block Tag secures terminal blocks for utility relay.

The URD Tagging Device, a necessity for Underground Residential Distribution (URD) power cables, ensures safe deactivation.

All Rauckman’s tags boast of a UL-94 V0 flame resistance, the highest standard for fire safety in the industry, ensuring they are safe to use even in the most challenging situations.

With over 20 years in the industry, we understand the crucial role that tagging devices play in maintaining safety and efficiency for utility lineworkers. Our range of tagging devices caters to the diverse needs of the industry, ensuring that every lineworker has the right tool for the job.

BlockJaw Terminal Block Tagging

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