Time to unwind
Discover what 3M™ Cold Shrink Technology can do for you. From easier installation to improved environmental sealing – with 3M™ Cold Shrink Cable Accessories.
The cold shrink revolution
For over 60 years, professional electrical workers have trusted 3M for innovative solutions that enhance safety and productivity. That’s why we invented Cold Shrink technology: a revolutionary alternative to traditional heat shrink cable joints and terminations that can be installed in a fraction of the time, without the need for special equipment or permits.
With faster, easier installation, and the long-term reliability provided by superior environmental sealing, 3M™ Cold Shrink Medium Voltage Cable Accessories can help you achieve improved efficiency and performance, as well as significant cost savings.
Cold shrink technology
Since inventing cold shrink more than 40 years ago, we have continuously improved our technology to offer cable accessories that are reliable, safe, and easy to install, with excellent performance.
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The “cool science” of cold shrink technology
Fast and easy one-step installation
- Enables installation in 1/3 of the time or less compared to heat shrink
- No special tools or work permits required
- Easier to install in tight spaces or inclement weather
- Easy to learn and train
Long-term reliability
- Dynamic ‘living seal’ expands and contracts with variations in temperature and load on the cable
- Designed to last the life of the cable while ensuring excellent electrical performance
- Low failure rates*:
⁃ 0.067% for molded joints/splices
⁃ 0.022% for terminations
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Why heat shrink may not be your best choice
More complex installation
- Performance highly dependent on installer skill
- Requires torch and hot work permit
- Increases required time and potentially costs
- Installation may require shut-down for facilities containing combustible gasses
Reliability concerns
- Non-integrated design does not allow for factory testing for Medium Voltage Splices
- Creates a static seal that does not expand or contract with the cable, potentially leading to the creation of voids between the cable accessory and the cable, which may potentially lead to failure
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*Data based upon U.S. failure data of U.S. manufactured 3M Cold Shrink Medium Voltage Cable Accessories between 2009 and 2012.
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A ‘living seal’ – for long term performance and protection.
3M™ Cold Shrink Products contain elastomeric bonds, giving them elasticity similar to rubber bands. When stretched and then allowed to shrink onto a cable, they exert a strong inward force that produces a constant squeezing effect on the cable – providing excellent electrical performance, and superior environmental sealing compared to heat shrink cable accessories.
Tools to make your job go smoothly
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Onsite training
Request training from one of our professionals. We'll meet you at your office or in the field. Subject to availability.
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Ask an expert
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