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Cable Spiking
Cable Spiking is a means of safely Proving Dead HV Cables. It’s a procedure which was developed over 70 years ago and it still remains the only recognised method in use today.
We use the original Accles & Shelvoke Spiking tool and this requires a firing cartridge being appropriately selected for the cable size. The cartridge is inserted into the tool and is then fired remotely via a pull cord.
This operation drives the chisel into the cable, shorting all the conductors to earth. This should be confirmed with an insulation resistance tester, prior to removing the spiking tool from the cable.
Why choose us for Cable Identification & Spiking?
- Our knowledge and understanding within this specialist field.
- Approved industry standard, professional equipment of the highest quality.
- Our electrical engineers are fully trained & certified to undertake this work.
More information about Cable Spiking
Although it was designed for use with HV cables, we are finding more requests to spike LV cables, particularly within the NHS sector.
It’s extremely important to understand the full procedure which also involves positively identifying the intended cable, prior to spiking. A target cable will be induced with a specific tone from a signal generator and this will be identified clearly with a receiver at the point of work.
Senior Authorised Person
Cable Spiking should only be carried out under the supervision of a Senior Authorised Person and under the control of the Duty Holders Controlling Engineer. A Sanction For Test is also required for Cable Spiking to proceed.
We are often requested to spike a cable that has been discovered within the demise of a building or construction site and while this may appear to be the correct approach, it must never be the first and only option undertaken prior to cutting and removal.
Tracing an abandoned cable
An abandoned cable often falls outside anyone’s control and therefore cannot be delt with under a Sanction For Test. An abandoned cable presents far higher challenges due to it not being connected to an existing electrical system and this means we don’t have a cable end to inject signal.
Where possible the cable age, type and voltage band needs to be identified. Consultation with local DNO’s, or landowners needs to take place, as this can sometimes provide access to historical drawings that may show abandoned cables. Be prepared to dig further trial holes along the cable. In some cases we’ve used a Vacuum Excavator to expose the cable along its length.
Tracing an abandoned cable from where it has been found can be extremely problematic, as there may not be sufficient connection with earth for the generated signal to form a return path.
Spiking the cable
Only when all avenues have been exhausted would a decision be made to spike the offending cable. Cutting the cable away from the work area will also be completed using a remotely operated hydraulic cutter.
Every job is different and will be treated individually under its own merits. Please feel free to call us for further advice.
