sources for high voltage cable and connectors

[K8DI]

I'm looking for a source or sources for connectors and cables that are rated for 2500v or higher operation. I have found options for big wire, or stuff that is expensive, really expensive, but something reasonable seems hard to come by. I've considered SHV type BNC connectors, but the RG59 cable types don't seem to keep up with their voltage ratings...


Where are you all using for and/or finding proper HV cables and connectors?

Ed

[va3dxv]

I too would like to know the ideal wire to use... Especially with the SHV connectors. I refuse to use the Millen connectors.

I'm currently using SHV connectors with RG6, but that's only rated at 2500vdc.

[K4NYW]

Type HN coaxial connectors? - seem to turn up cheap at hamfests, etc.
Dielectric Withstanding Voltage  (Sea Level)    5000 VRMS Min

RG-8/U cable with solid polyethylene dielectric - good to at least 15kv?
https://www.spellmanhv.com/en/Technical-Resources/Application-Notes-HVPS/AN-07

[KD6VXI]

After getting hit with 6KVDC in Dec 2018 I went in the search myself.

I came up with MHV connectors.  They are reversed bnc with 5kvdc insulation.

The center pins are recessed through insulation so there is no chance of an accidental contact.  I tasted this hy laying the connector in a grounded piece of metal on the floor.  No arc, nothing.

The compatible coass and connector can be purchased from eBay.  They use a 75 ohm coax.

Can't say enough good about these connectors.  They are one of a kind, regular bnc and reverse bnc won't connect and it's said you can hold them in your hand.  While energized (not testing that claim).

These are good to 5kv.  They have larger for higher withstanding voltage as well.

I'll NEVER use a Millen again.

--Shane

[va3dxv]

Isn't SHV superior to MHV?

[KD6VXI]

Yes, you are correct.  Was going by memory while on break at work.

https://www.rbdinstruments.com/blog/high-voltage-connector-types/  will possibly be a help.

--Shane
KD6VXI

[Detroit47]

I don't use HV connectors. I hard wire connections and run the high voltage wire in sealtite. I have seen several people killed on amplifiers. In an industrial setting we would never leave a Hi voltage connection exposed. Or a wire it would be in conduit. I don't want to see myself or anyone killed on something I built. Follow the National electric code and all is well

http://www.afcweb.com/liquid-tuff-conduit/

Johnathan N8QPC

[KL7OF]

Neon sign wire and the connector of your choice...

[KD6VXI]

I also use shielded GTO wire for interconnects or people that want it hard wired.

Neon wire for the uninitiated.

However, that can usually be used only with hard wired pieces as I don't know of a rated connector that fits.

--Shane
KD6VXI

[DMOD]

Some time ago I had to replace the HV wiring in my Henry Amp which carries 3600 volts so I used these components. I also added another layer of shrink tubing to the HV wire.

https://www.rfparts.com/connectors-highvoltage.html

https://www.rfparts.com/hv18-r.html


Phil

[KD6VXI]

Those Millen style are what I was electrocuted with

The insulation was abraded at the connector.  Probably from repeatedly twisting because different rf decks where used with the same supply.

I refuse to use them on anything now and change all of them.

--Shane
KD6VXI

[WA5VGO]

For high voltage connections it’s hard to beat Packard 440 wire. 

[MikeKE0ZUinkcmo]

...For high voltage connections it’s hard to beat Packard 440 wire...

Sparkplug wire, definitely designed for HV.  I used it when distributors and magnetos were used to light the fire.

[WBear2GCR]

My friend Paul, KC2IWC has (iirc) a large spool of 50kV silicone insulation wire.
About the same size as RG-8. (he's "good" on the "Q" something site...)

He would likely be willing to spool off 10-15ft and ship it for the right price.

RG-8, solid poly insulation, with the shield in place would, however, be a good choice, imho.

               _-_-

[W1RKW]

I have to wonder, why touch a hot cable or hot anything?  

Those Millen style are what I was electrocuted with

The insulation was abraded at the connector.  Probably from repeatedly twisting because different rf decks where used with the same supply.

I refuse to use them on anything now and change all of them.

--Shane
KD6VXI

[KD6VXI]

I didn't.  I reached behind the amp to move some cable on my boom mic.

The amp was in the middle of the floor in my shop and I had left to go get a drink.  Came back in and reached behind.  I leaned over the amp and had one arm resting in top of the chassis, and my hand was laying over the top.

Was an inadvertent slip of the mind / hand.  I thought the Millen was lower in the back chassis.

Never do that again.

--Shane
KD6VXI

[WBear2GCR]

Must be missing something?
10kv connectors for use with 2.5kv RG-59??

On a related note - I want MALE on the chassis side and FEMALE on the cable side.
DOH!

For connectors like the ones that look like a BNC should not be a physical problem...


                _-_-