Journeyman Event- 2010
12kv-Insulator change-out
Mean Time: 18 minutes
This event involves the task of replacing a pole top pin insulator on an energized structure.
The pole construction will be single phase straight line (A1). The event simulates a situation
where the insulator was originally tied in by hand under de-energized circumstances, but
must be replaced while energized. When the team starts the event, the insulator to be
replaced has been tied in with a double-top-tie sometimes called a “3-2”, “Kansas City”, “13-2-2-2” tie (see picture). However, the wire must be tied into the new insulator using a
“hot tie” (see picture). The event must be returned to the condition it was in when the
team started.
The conductor must be tied and controlled with insulated hot sticks and (an insulated pushpole with two crabs) or (an insulated lay-out arm) must be utilized to temporarily hold the
conductor while the insulator is being changed.
Layout arm methodTeams may apply an insulated clamp stick to the conductor with a tag-rope attached
allowing the groundman to hold the conductor down against the insulator, which would be
considered one point-of-control while the base of the insulator is supplying the second
point-of-control.
When untying and laying “out” the conductor, the team must maintain at least two positive
points-of-control at all times after six wraps have been removed and until the conductor is
secured in its temporary holding place.
When lying “in” the conductor, two positive points-of-control must be maintained at all
times from the time the conductor leaves it’s secured temporary holding place until at least
six wraps(three on both sides or one side completely tied in) are completed.
The conductor will be #2 ACSR.
Armor rods will not be used due to material constraints.
The primary will be worked with Hot-sticks maintaining MAD.
Proper hot-stick attachments must be used for tying and untying.
The neutral must be covered. (both sides with clevis)
Whether primary is pushed up or laid-out, it must be covered above/beside the
lineman that is changing out the insulator.
Teams will cut their own #4 Aluminum tie wire as they enter.
Tie wire cannot be cut or made up on the insulator before time starts.
Hot tie must have 6 wraps on each side of insulator with no more than 3” sticking up.
After time has stopped, teams will be required to return event to original condition.
The judge must approve the condition of the double-top tie before team is allowed
to descend pole.
1. Teams will be 5 minutes to set-up and ask questions.
2. Time will start when the first climbers gaff touches the pole.
3. Time will stop when both climbers safety off below the neutral, all material has
been cleared from the handline, and “stop-time” is called by a designated
team member. All cover-up must be removed before time can be called.
4. Judging will continue after time has stopped and until the team has returned
the event to its original condition and exited the event area.
Material Provided
12kv F-neck insulator
#4 aluminum tie wire