Parallel Groove Clamp (PG Clamp)
The Parallel Groove Clamp (PG Clamp) is a versatile two-piece, bolted connector designed to electrically and mechanically join two or more bare conductors in parallel. It is the standard solution for service taps, branch connections, and straight splices on overhead distribution lines and service drops.
Its key advantage is providing a secure, rated connection without the need for cutting, splicing, or compression tools, allowing for easy installation, inspection, and future reconfiguration.
- Hot-Forged Aluminum Alloy Body
- Precision Parallel Grooves
- High-Strength Fastening System
- Complete Corrosion Protection
- Tool-Free & Reusable
What Is a Parallel Groove Clamp?
A Parallel Groove Clamp is a two-piece, bolted electrical connector characterized by its longitudinal, parallel grooves that precisely cradle round conductors. It functions as a mechanical coupler and electrical busbar, creating a low-resistance path between conductors by clamping them side-by-side under high pressure.
Traditionally, joining conductors requires either permanent compression sleeves (which are irreversible) or labor-intensive wrapped splices. The Parallel Groove Clamp offers a superior alternative: a rated, reusable, and inspectable connection that maintains conductor integrity. It is the go-to solution for making service taps off main lines, splicing conductors around obstacles, and repairing damaged sections without replacing the entire conductor length.
Specifications
Type: Parallel Groove Clamp (Two-Groove / Four-Groove)
Body Material: High-Strength Aluminum Alloy (Hot-Forged)
Bolt/Nut Material: Stainless Steel or Hot-Dip Galvanized Steel (Grade 5 or higher)
Washer: Belleville Spring Washer (standard) to maintain clamping force.
Finish: Natural aluminum oxide / Protective coating on steel parts.
Standards: Designed to meet general utility requirements for parallel connectors.
Accessories/Optional: Oxide inhibitor paste, bi-metal interface pads for connecting aluminum to copper conductors.
Key Features
- Hot-Forged Aluminum Alloy Body: Provides an optimal balance of high strength, excellent conductivity, and light weight, ensuring durable performance and efficient current transfer.
- Precision Parallel Grooves: Engineered to align conductors perfectly, maximizing contact area for low electrical resistance and reliable conductivity under load.
- High-Strength Fastening System: Utilizes stainless steel or hot-dip galvanized steel bolts with Belleville washers to maintain constant contact pressure during thermal expansion and contraction cycles, preventing loosening (“thermal ratcheting”).
- Complete Corrosion Protection: The aluminum body is naturally corrosion-resistant, and all steel components (bolts, washers) are hot-dip galvanized or Dacromet-coated for long-term protection in outdoor environments.
- Tool-Free & Reusable: Installation and removal require only standard wrenches, saving significant time and labor costs compared to permanent compression methods.
Applications
-
Service Tap Connections: Connecting a service drop wire to a main distribution conductor.
- Branching/Jumping: Creating a parallel path around an insulator or other line hardware.
- Inline Splices: Joining two conductor ends where a temporary or reusable connection is needed.
- Streetlight & Equipment Feeds: Tapping power for ancillary devices on poles.
Drawing
Package
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