Protecting the Community from Electrical Hazards

June 30, 2022

by PLP Australia

Articles, Transmission & Distribution

Reducing the risk of electrical hazards to the community prompted PLP Australia to design, test and manufacture the Safety Service Disconnector (SSD).

The SSD device is installed on overhead house electrical services and offers unique safety features that reduces the risk of electrocution to utility line repair crews, emergency services and the general public.

LOW HANGING ELECTRICAL SERVICES POSE A SERIOUS RISK

In the event of a high impact load striking the house service such as a large tree branch or high vehicle, the SSD cuts through the conductor and retains the live electrical house service securely at the pole, insulated and away from the public.

The electrical span that falls to the ground is in a de-energised state, reducing the risk of electrocution and fire.

To ensure the continuous safe operation of PLP’s SSD-2x25AL19, the product has been tested on numerous house services that have been installed for more than 10 years.

NO INTERRUPTION TO THE CONSUMERS POWER SUPPLY

The SSD can be installed on existing services with no interruption to the consumers power supply.

The SSD device can be installed on an existing energised single phase, 2-core 25mm² Aluminium XLPE Aerial Bundled Conductor at the pole end without the need to disconnect the consumer’s power supply.

SSD FEATURES AND BENEFITS

All components are held captive within the body so no loose parts can fall to the ground.
The body is manufactured from UV stabilised, fibre-reinforced nylon, providing insulation and mechanical strength.
No requirement for on-site setting as the arrangement is tamper proof.
Activation will only occur if a load of approximately 1.9kN is applied.
An accurate, reliable cut is guaranteed by a specifically sized shear pin.
The SSD will not activate with an increase in tension such as a possum walking along the service.
There are no active electrical components within the SSD, which eliminates the possibility of hot joints and electrical breakdown.
No special tools are required.