Ellis bolts for National Grid’s Woodhead Tunnel project

National Grid’s Woodhead Tunnel project

The Woodhead Tunnel is being used to carry high voltage (HV) cables that will form part of a 400,000-volt transmission system.

It runs from Dunford Bridge to Woodhead in the Peak District National Park and carries power between National Grid substations at Thorpe Marsh, near Doncaster, and Stalybridge.

Already installed in the HV tunnel are Ellis’ Centaur cable saddles, which are now being joined by the company’s 2A Aluminium clamps.

Paul Nolan, Ellis’ UK sales director, explains the background:

ñThe Centaur cable saddle was designed specifically for this type of project and has proved to be a huge success. It secured our biggest ever order for National Grid’s London Power Tunnels in 2012, and is now being specified for HV tunnels around the world.î

Our intention when we brought our enhanced range of 1A and 2A bolt Aluminium clamps to market last year was for the to be targeted directly at the HV power tunnel market _ and to date this is paying dividends.

Ellis’ enhanced 1A and 2A clamps now have an improved shape, which delivers greater strength. Meanwhile, greater flexibility is achieved thanks to the availability of 22 different sizes, ranging from 38mm to 120mm for the 2A clamp, and 10mm to 58mm for the 1A clamp.

While the entire range is diecast from LM6 Cast Aluminium using tooling that Ellis designed and manufactured in-house. The 2A clamp has been short circuit tested in accordance with IEC61914 and has a peak level of 173kA. And all products come with the option of a Neoprene liner and epoxy coating.

As with Centaur, this range is primarily for the transmission and distribution market and so it’s rewarding to see it being specified for a major project like The Woodhead Tunnel so shortly after launch.î

Additional information on National Grid’s Woodhead Tunnel project

For more information on Ellis and its products call 44(0)1944 758395 or visit the website via the link below.