RadCrimp® Solar Splice with Melni Spiral Termination Technology

The RadCrimp® Solar Splice with Melni Spiral Termination Technology represents a revolutionary step forward in photovoltaic (PV) system interconnectivity. This robust solar connector developed by Amphenol Industrial Sustainable Technologies (AIST) offers a crimpless solution, simplifying the installation and maintenance of solar field wiring. With a design that eliminates the need for specialized tools and provides secure, reliable connections, the RadCrimp® is an essential component for solar installations, ensuring optimal performance and long-term durability.

Overview

The RadCrimp® Solar Splice is a UL-certified, 1500V DC-rated connector, designed specifically for solar photovoltaic installations. What sets this product apart from other PV connectors on the market is its utilization of Melni Spiral Termination Technology, which eliminates the need for crimping tools and complex installation processes. By simply inserting stripped cables into the connector and tightening the end caps, technicians can create a reliable, low-resistance electrical connection that will withstand harsh environmental conditions.

Designed for both new PV installations and retrofits, the RadCrimp® ensures a faster, safer installation process while maintaining compliance with industry standards. Its innovative spiral termination design also prevents improper mating of connectors from different manufacturers, which is a common problem in the field.

Key Features

1. Melni Spiral Termination Technology
   The standout feature of the RadCrimp® Solar Splice is the Melni Spiral Termination Technology. This patented technology allows for quick and simple field terminations without the need for crimping tools. The dual spiral design ensures a strong, durable connection by compressing the wire strands in a way that minimizes resistance and maximizes conductivity. This innovative approach reduces the risk of connector failure due to improper crimping, making it a highly reliable solution.

2. Fast, Tool-Free Installation
   Field installations are often constrained by time and labor costs, making speed and simplicity key factors in connector selection. The RadCrimp® addresses this by offering tool-free termination. Installers only need to strip the wire, insert it into the connector, and tighten the end caps to the specified torque. This results in a robust, IP68-rated seal that can be completed in a fraction of the time required by traditional crimping methods.

3. High Voltage and Current Ratings
   The RadCrimp® Solar Splice is certified to UL6703 standards and can handle up to 1500V DC with a current rating of 30A for 10 AWG wire and 20A for 12 AWG wire. These high ratings make it suitable for both small and large solar power systems, ensuring that it can support a wide range of PV installations with different power requirements.

4. Durability in Harsh Environments
   Solar installations are exposed to a wide range of environmental conditions, from intense UV radiation to rain and dust. The RadCrimp® is designed to withstand these harsh conditions. It is rated IP68, meaning it is fully protected against dust and can be submerged in water up to a meter deep for one hour without compromising its performance. Additionally, the connector is made from thermoplastic materials that are UV resistant and flame-retardant, further enhancing its suitability for outdoor applications.

5. Reliability and Safety
   Field technicians often face challenges when mating connectors from different manufacturers, which can lead to unsafe connections and system failures. The RadCrimp® eliminates this risk by using a single connector design that ensures compatibility within the system. This reduces the potential for cross-mating errors and enhances the overall safety and reliability of the installation.

Technical Specifications

• Rated Voltage: 1500V DC
• Current Rating: 20A for 12 AWG wire, 30A for 10 AWG wire
• Typical Contact Resistance: ≤ 0.10mΩ
• Operating Temperature Range: -40°C to +85°C
• Upper Limiting Temperature: 120°C
• IP Rating: IP68 (1 meter, 1 hour) in mated condition
• UV Resistance: Outdoor suitable, per UL746C
• Flammability Rating: UL94-V0
• Cable Diameter Range: 6.0mm to 7.4mm

Applications

The RadCrimp® Solar Splice is ideal for a wide range of solar energy applications, particularly in situations where speed, reliability, and long-term performance are essential. Its tool-free, crimpless design makes it perfect for:

• New Solar PV Installations: Whether installing a small rooftop system or a large commercial solar farm, the RadCrimp® provides a fast, reliable solution that minimizes installation time and labor costs.
• Field Retrofits and Repairs: Aging solar systems often need connector replacements. The RadCrimp’s ease of installation ensures that repairs can be made quickly without requiring specialized tools.
• Solar Field Expansions: As solar farms expand, the ability to quickly and safely extend wiring systems is crucial. The RadCrimp®offers a scalable solution that maintains system integrity as new arrays are added.

How to Use

The installation process for the RadCrimp® Solar Splice is remarkably simple. Here are the steps:

1. 1. Strip the PV wires to the recommended length using a standard wire stripper.
   2. Insert the stripped wires into the connector’s spiral termination chambers.
   3. Tighten the end caps to the specified torque using a hand wrench or other basic tools. This action compresses the spiral terminals securely around the wire.

Why Choose the RadCrimp® Solar Splice?

The RadCrimp® Solar Splice with Melni Spiral Termination Technology offers significant advantages over traditional PV connectors, including:

• No Need for Crimping Tools: This crimpless design saves time and eliminates the need for expensive, bulky crimping equipment.
• Reliable, Long-Lasting Connections: With its spiral technology, the RadCrimp® provides a consistent, low-resistance connection that outperforms crimped connectors in both reliability and ease of use.
• Durability: Designed for long-term outdoor use, the RadCrimp® is UV resistant, flame-retardant, and protected against dust and water ingress, making it perfect for harsh environmental conditions.
• Compliance and Safety: The connector meets the stringent requirements of UL6703, ensuring that it adheres to the highest safety and performance standards in the industry.

Conclusion

The RadCrimp® Solar Splice with Melni Spiral Termination Technology is a game-changer in the solar energy industry. By simplifying installation, improving connection reliability, and reducing the risk of field failures, it provides a superior solution for solar field wiring. Whether you’re working on a new solar installation, performing repairs, or expanding an existing system, the RadCrimp® Solar Splice offers the speed, reliability, and durability needed to ensure long-term success.

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RadCrimp® Solar Splice with Melni Spiral Termination Technology