The new version Phillystran (part numbers ending in I for improved) was
developed to eliminate the need for potting ends for terminations. The
potting ends worked very well and are still used on sizes larger than
HPTG11200I.
Responding to customer demand to eliminate the time and money intensive
potting ends, a new version of Phillystran was designed. When the new cables
were first introduced there were no grips available as they are very
different from other grips used for steel cables. The only termination option
left was use of cable clamps which worked but did not allow the cable to
reach it's rated breaking strenght. Preformed Line Products Co, the
manufacturer of the grips, developed some special grips for the new
Phillystran and after many tests they were delivered to Phillystran, becoming
the recommended and only factory approved method of termination.
The grips are NOT compatible with the older style Philystran so it is
extremely important to determine which version you are using when
used/surplus material is obtained. Rigging suppliers can supply end fittings
called Spelter Sockets that can be used with Epoxy Resin to terminate the old
style Phillystran. They are not cheap but are less expensive than the few
remaining original Phillystran terminations and are readily available.
73 de Gerald Williamson/Texas Towers
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