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Topic: Pulling out old conductors

User: stevebea, Location: Southeastern PA

Asked on: Sunday, April 10, 2011 at 8:25 pm EDT
Answered on: Tuesday, May 14, 2024 at 4:02 am EDT

Question: Situation: 30 Ton RTU is being replaced and customer wants new conductors pulled in. On the rooftop there is a run of 110' with three 90's and two kicks between two LB's and I cannot budge the conductors with our tugger at all. It is a 3" GRC with four 350mcm. There is alot of dried wire lube in the LB's and I am out of ideas short of cutting GRC and then repairing it. Any ideas guy's? Thanks.I should have stated I am trying to pull the old conductors out!

Troubleshooting and Potential Solutions



1. Ensure Proper Lubrication

Verify that the conductors are lubricated with a high-quality wire lube. Apply lubricant generously to the LB's and along the conduit run.

2. Inspect Conduit for Obstructions

Use a borescope or rigid wire to probe the conduit and check for any debris, kinks, or damage that may hinder conductor movement. If obstructions are found, remove or clear them.

3. Try Reverse Pulling

Disconnect the conductors from the LB on the opposite end and attach them to the tugger. Pull the conductors gently from that direction to see if it aids in their release from the other LB.

4. Use a Larger Tugger

If feasible, rent or borrow a more powerful tugger with increased pulling capacity. Ensure that the tugger is securely anchored to prevent slippage.

5. Rotate Conductors

Grip the conductors firmly and rotate them inside the conduit. This motion can help break loose any stuck points or dried lube.

6. Heat the Conduit

Wrap a heat gun or electric blanket around the portion of the conduit containing the stuck conductors. Heat the conduit to a moderate temperature (around 100-150°F) to soften any dried lube and make the conductors more pliable.

7. Utilize a Conduit Lubricator

Purchase or rent a conduit lubricator specifically designed to inject lubrication into conduit runs. Insert the lubricator into the conduit and apply lubricant while pulling the conductors.

8. Try a CO2 Extinguisher

Discharge a small amount of CO2 from a fire extinguisher into the conduit. The gas can help expand the conductors and reduce friction, making them easier to move.

9. Call in a Professional

* If all the above methods fail, consider contacting a professional electrician or conduit cleaning specialist. They may have specialized equipment or techniques to resolve the issue.

Note:
Avoid cutting the GRC as a last resort unless there is clear evidence that it is the only viable solution. Repairing the conduit can be time-consuming and expensive. Flag for review

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