Recoverable elastomeric sleeve and method for installation and use

Abstract

A method for covering a substrate comprising the steps of: positioning over the substrate an assembly including a recoverable elastomeric sleeve and a mandrel upon which the sleeve is mounted under tension in an expanded condition such that upon release of the tension the sleeve tends to assume a smaller cross-sectional dimension and thereupon cover the substrate; the mandrel having a generally tubular configuration and defining a series of spaced apart, substantially longitudinal projections extending radially outwardly, the sleeve being in substantial contact with the longitundinal projections; and, withdrawing the mandrel from the sleeve by sliding the mandrel longitudinally away from the sleeve while maintaining its position over the workpiece, the sleeve thereby progressively assuming a smaller cross-sectional dimension to cover the substrate as the mandrel is progressively withdrawn. The substrate may be a high voltage termination or cable splice, and the mandrel may include a medial annular transverse tearline enabling breaking and separation of the mandrel into two segments for facilitating withdrawal from, and recovery of, the sleeve. A lubricating agent may be placed between the longitudinal projections. The sleeve may be provided with end segments which avoid contact with the lubricating agent and which are unfolded following release of the sleeve onto the substrate thereby to seal the ends thereof.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.