
At Watteredge, we always work to help customers maximize the lifespan of every product they purchase from us. Large water-cooled power cables rank among our most popular products. We offer the following recommendations to help customers protect and extend the life of their cables.
Shipping
When shipping cables, avoid using a tight coil wrap on a pallet. A tight coil wrap creases the hose, weakening the materials inside and potentially causing leaks. Creased hoses also weaken internal wires, reducing the overall lifespan of the cable.
Handling
After receiving Watteredge power cables, follow key procedures to maintain their condition. Avoid twisting the cables while handling them. Red match marks aligned with the terminals and red stripes connecting them indicate proper cable alignment. Each cable contains one gallon of antifreeze to prevent freezing in winter. Drain the antifreeze before installation and dispose of it properly according to safety data sheets.
When moving cables, avoid dragging them or using tow motors. Dragging can damage bumpers, heat shields, or outer hoses. Tow motors often cause cables to fall off forks or tear hoses. Chains used for lifting can damage parts or slip off fiberglass covers. Use a sling instead.
Avoid lifting cables by the outer hose. Instead, use lifting lugs bolted to the terminals. These lugs cost very little and can be custom-fit. While lifting, prevent terminals from bumping into anything. Damaged terminals may require expensive, time-consuming repairs at Watteredge.
Installation
During installation, uncoil cables completely and avoid twisting. Ensure match marks face each other. Attach pipe fittings before bolting cables in place. Avoid using magnetic bolts and pipes, which overheat during operation.
Operation
Before applying power, circulate water through the cables for 15 minutes to purge air. If water flow stops during operation, shut down the unit and inspect cables. Never touch live conductors, as they may carry dangerous voltage and current. Regularly check and tighten bolted joints.
Maintenance
Maintain cables by retightening bolts within two to three weeks after installation. Temperature changes often loosen bolts. Ensure proper water flow and promptly repair any leaks or damage.
Storage Procedures
Store cables vertically whenever possible by hanging them from one terminal, leaving them just above the floor. Choose a storage area free of objects that could puncture the hose or damage scuff gear, and avoid areas with extreme temperatures.
If vertical storage isn’t an option, store cables horizontally. Lay them flat off the floor without coiling them on a pallet. Ensure cables remain untwisted. Confirm terminal lugs align correctly. If necessary, remove protective boards and use steel bars through bolt holes to adjust the terminal position. If this doesn’t solve the issue, contact Watteredge.
Whether storing vertically or horizontally, protect hoses, terminals, and scuff gear from damage and avoid extreme temperatures to preserve cable quality.
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