Copper braid plays a crucial role in the electrical infrastructure, particularly in cable jointing and termination kits for medium and high-voltage power cables. It is primarily used for electrical continuity, grounding (earthing), and shielding. Below is an overview of how copper braid is utilized in straight through joints, outdoor terminations, and indoor terminations:

Straight Through Joint

A straight through joint is used to connect two lengths of cable together to form a continuous electrical path. In this application:

• Function of Copper Braid:
  • Ensures electrical continuity of the metallic screen/sheath between cable sections.
  • Provides a low-resistance path for fault currents and shielding effectiveness.
  • Acts as a grounding element, restoring the earth continuity interrupted during the cable jointing process.
• Application:
  • Wrapped or laid over the jointed section of the cable where the metallic screen or armor has been removed and then reconnected.
  • Often enclosed within heat-shrink or cold-shrink tubing, or encapsulated in resin for mechanical and environmental protection.
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Outdoor Termination Kit

Outdoor termination kits are used when the end of a cable needs to be exposed to external environmental conditions.

• Function of Copper Braid:
  • Maintains the earth continuity from the metallic sheath of the cable to the grounding system.
  • Often connected to earth lugs or terminals and bonded securely to the cable gland or structure.
  • Provides EMI/RFI shielding in environments where electromagnetic interference may be a concern.
• Application:
  • Typically used in pole-mounted transformers, switchgear, or outdoor panels.
  • Copper braid is often clamped and protected using heat shrink boots or sealing systems that resist moisture and UV degradation.
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Indoor Termination Kit

Indoor terminations are used where cables enter buildings or enclosures, such as in panels or switchboards.

• Function of Copper Braid:
  • Similar to outdoor terminations, the braid provides shield continuity and grounding.
  • Protects against electromagnetic interference in sensitive control or instrumentation environments.
  • Ensures safe dissipation of fault currents by connecting the cable screen or armor to ground.
• Application:
  • Used in substations, control rooms, or factory settings.
  • Typically enclosed in heat shrink or cold shrink tubes, with the copper braid earthed to the panel or enclosure.