Question 1

How is a typical LV/HV jointing project scoped, quoted, and scheduled with a specialist contractor?

Accepted Answer

Projects are scoped from drawings, cable specifications, site conditions, and DNO requirements, then quoted based on labour, materials, testing, and access constraints before being scheduled around outages and programme requirements.

Question 2

What information should a client prepare before engaging a jointing contractor?

Accepted Answer

Clients should provide drawings, cable type and size, voltage level, termination details, DNO or IDNO requirements, and any programme or outage constraints.

Question 3

How are testing, commissioning, and documentation handled after cable jointing and substation work?

Accepted Answer

Testing and commissioning are carried out in line with DNO or client procedures, with results recorded and handover documentation issued upon completion.

Question 4

What voltages does R&D Cable Jointing work on (LV, 11 kV, 33 kV)?

Accepted Answer

R&D Cable Jointing undertakes LV, 11 kV, and 33 kV cable jointing and termination works, subject to project scope and authorisations.

Question 5

What areas of the UK does R&D Cable Jointing cover, and do they travel for larger projects?

Accepted Answer

R&D Cable Jointing primarily operates across the UK and regularly travels for larger or specialist projects where required.

Question 6

What is the difference between a cable jointer and an SAP, and which roles can R&D provide on a project?

Accepted Answer

A cable jointer carries out physical jointing and termination works, while an SAP is responsible for safety control and authorisation; R&D can provide jointers and authorised persons depending on project needs.

Question 7

Can R&D Cable Jointing handle full 11 kV substation installations, including civil works, fit-out, and commissioning?

Accepted Answer

R&D Cable Jointing can support full 11 kV substation installations, including fit-out, cabling, jointing, and commissioning, working alongside civil contractors where required.

Question 8

Does R&D work labour-only, or can they also supply complete jointing kits and materials?

Accepted Answer

R&D can work on a labour-only basis or supply complete jointing kits and associated materials as part of a managed scope.

Question 9

What types of cable (PILC, XLPE, waveform, etc.) can R&D joint and terminate?

Accepted Answer

R&D has experience jointing and terminating PILC, XLPE, waveform, and other common LV and HV cable types.

Question 10

Why is high-quality cable jointing critical for network reliability and safety?

Accepted Answer

Poorly installed joints are a leading cause of cable failures, whereas high-quality jointing ensures electrical integrity, long service life, and safe operation.

Question 11

What are the typical steps in an LV or HV cable jointing and termination process?

Accepted Answer

The process typically includes cable preparation, insulation control, joint or termination installation, mechanical and electrical checks, and final testing.

Question 12

What safety authorisations and competencies are required for HV jointing and SAP duties?

Accepted Answer

HV jointing and SAP duties require formal training, manufacturer approvals, and network-specific authorisations in line with UK safety rules.

Question 13

What qualifications and experience are normally required to become an LV/HV cable jointer in the UK?

Accepted Answer

Most jointers progress through site experience, manufacturer training courses, and employer authorisations rather than a single formal qualification.

Question 14

What career path and progression exist from mate or cable hand to fully authorised jointer and then SAP?

Accepted Answer

Progression typically starts as a mate or cable hand, advancing to authorised jointer through experience and training, with SAP roles requiring further assessment and authorisation.

Question 15

Are there recognised NVQs or manufacturer-approved courses specifically for cable jointing and terminations?

Accepted Answer

Cable jointing is usually certified through manufacturer-approved courses and employer authorisations, with NVQs used more broadly for electrical competence.

Question 16

What are typical lead times for LV and HV jointing projects?

Accepted Answer

Lead times vary by project complexity, materials availability, and outage planning, but many works can be scheduled within days or weeks.

Question 17

What health and safety certifications do your jointers hold?

Accepted Answer

Jointers typically hold industry-standard safety certifications such as CSCS/ECS, HV authorisations, and manufacturer approvals.

Question 18

Can you provide a recent case study for a 33 kV installation?

Accepted Answer

Case studies are available on request and typically cover scope, challenges, and delivery outcomes for completed 33 kV projects.

Question 19

What testing and commissioning procedures do you follow?

Accepted Answer

Testing and commissioning follow DNO, IDNO, or client-specified procedures, including insulation resistance and pressure or sheath testing where applicable.

Question 20

Do you offer emergency cable fault location and repair services?

Accepted Answer

Emergency fault response and repair services can be provided subject to availability and site conditions.

11kV Cable Jointing Methods: What Actually Matters on Site

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Site factors that create problems

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