Should You Take the HYGROUND®?
When you have a project that requires grounded connections, will you use Burndy HYGROUND® compressions or exothermic Cadwelds? Both connections are high-quality and long-lasting, so how do you select the best option for your location?
In this article, we’ll provide an overview of Burndy HYGROUND® compressions and demonstrate when they are the most suitable option.
What is Burndy HYGROUND® Compression?
Burndy HYGROUND® is a grounding method that uses compression rather than an exothermic weld to create a connection. Just like exothermic welding, HYGROUND® creates an irreversible, durable, reliable grounded connection. It’s suitable for a wide range of projects, such as connecting round leads to a grid system or joining ground leads to equipment and structures.
Compression connections are not new. In fact, Burndy compression technology has been in use for nearly 100 years. Although there are staunch advocates for exothermic welds like Cadweld, Burndy connections have been thoroughly studied for reliability, lifespan, and quality. They rate favorably in comparison to exothermic welds and easily pass industry testing standards.
Advantages of Burndy HYGROUND® Compression
HYGROUND® is a great solution when you need a connection, but welding isn’t a viable option. If, for example, the area or its components are flammable or would be damaged by the high heat generated from an exothermic weld, then a compression connection is a better option.
Compared to exothermic welds, compression connections offer significant cost savings. The compression, according to Burndy, takes an average of three minutes to complete. Another significant advantage of HYGROUND® connections is that installers can complete them in wet, windy, or any other condition. Over the course of a project, you could save significantly on both labor and by avoiding weather delays if you choose HYGROUND® connections.
Like exothermic welds, HYGROUND® connections have the same or greater capacity than the conductor. Burndy compression is suitable for use when the connection will be buried underground or in cement. Additionally, HYGROUND® components are made from copper, so they aren’t susceptible to galvanized corrosion.
Burndy compression connections are easier to inspect than exothermic welds. Using an x-ray is the only way to inspect the quality of an exothermic weld, and the quality can vary from one installer to another. When a HYGROUND® installer makes a crimp connection, the die number automatically embosses on the connector. An inspector can easily verify that the crimp was made successfully and that the installer used the correct connector, tool, and installation die.
The HYGROUND® compression system offers ease and standardization, so there is virtually no variability in installation. HYGROUND® installers don’t need any special tools or extensive training to successfully complete connections that will last for decades.
Disadvantages of HYGROUND® Compression
Burndy HYGROUND® compression is suitable for nearly any situation. However, in applications where the current will be exceptionally large, an exothermic weld may be more appropriate.
Compression Welds with Wetherbee
High-quality, durable connections are essential to the safety of your employees and facility. Choosing the right connection for your location helps avoid liability issues, plus it reduces the time and money that you have to spend on maintenance. If you’re not sure which type of connection is best for your location, get in touch with Oklahoma’s compression experts. We can discuss your options and then move forward with expert grounding that will last for decades.
