June 9, 2009 -- Thomas & Betts' Homac® Storm-Safe® is designed to provide a solution to storm damage such as falling branches and debris that often snags utility service entrance cables between the utility distribution pole and the customer's building or home.
Depending on how the cables fall, they may be energized, causing a safety hazard to the public, emergency response and utility personnel. In addition, the mechanical loads may cause damage to the customer's facilities or homes that may require costly repairs and time delays in service restoration.
When the service cable is struck, the Storm-Safe breakaway link immediately releases the service mechanical support and disconnects the electrical service. As a result, the service cable comes down de-energized without damage to the utility equipment or customer premises.
Storm-Safe consists of two primary components: a mechanical breakaway link and mating contacts for the electrical service. The mechanical breakaway link breaks at a prescribed force, preventing damage. The mating contacts separate after the line breaks, providing a safe disconnect of power. After the storm passes, power can be quickly and cost effectively restored by installing a new link and re-inserting the contacts.
For more information about Storm-Safe, visit utility.tnb.com or contact your Thomas & Betts sales representative by calling (800) 326-5282.
About Thomas & Betts Corporation
Thomas & Betts Corporation (www.tnb.com) is a leading designer and manufacturer of electrical components used in industrial, commercial, communications and utility markets. The company is also a leading producer of commercial heating and ventilation units and utility transmission structures. Headquartered in Memphis, Tenn., the company has manufacturing, distribution and office facilities worldwide.
