Hybrid Grounding Connector
AssigneeThomas & Betts International, Inc.
InventorMatthew D. Cawood
Life of this patent
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Abstract
A hybrid grounding connector is provided which combines the positive attributes of currently used connections. A recess is pre-milled, formed or extruded into the body of a compression connector and the recess is pre-filled with solder. After conductors are installed in the connector, an external heat source is applied to heat the solder until it flows into strands of the conductors and forms a solidified joint of the compression connector.
Claims13
A hybrid compression connector for providing a grounding connection, the connector comprising:
- a compression connector for receiving a plurality of conductors which are comprised of multiple strands;
- wherein an interior wall of the compression connector comprises a recess filled, at least partially, with solder;
- and
- wherein after the compression connector has been crimped around the conductors, a heat source is applied to melt the solder until it flows into the strands of the conductors to solidify the connection and prevent moisture intrusion.
A method for providing a grounding connection using a hybrid grounding connector, comprising the steps of:
- Milling, forming or extruding a recess into an internal wall of the connector;
- filling the recess, at least partially, with solder;
- placing a plurality of conductors which are comprised of multiples strands in the connector;
- crimping or tightening the connector around the plurality of conductors until the conductors are secure;
- and
- applying an external heat source to the connector in order to melt the solder to allow it to flow into the strands of the conductors, thereby solidifying the connection and preventing moisture intrusion.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.