Unlocking fired wedge performance

Fired wedge connectors provide superior field reliability and perform better in industry standard tests than other connector technologies such as bolted and compression styles. This performance has been elusive to replicate even for bolted versions of wedge connectors. A survey of production connectors revealed qualitative and quantitative differences. Experiments evaluated contact force, wipe, elasticity and other mechanical factors. The results identified key performance attributes which are necessary to provide long term stable connections. Based on these key attributes, an alternate connector design is proposed, evaluated, and compared with classic compression, bolted and fired wedge connectors. The performance of the new design in industry standard tests validates the identified key attributes on which it was based.