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Power Cable Connectors
Separable Connectors

3M Separable Connectors

Separable Connectors

Deliver reliable performance and long-term flexibility in changing environments.

Separable Connectors Portfolio

3M offers a portfolio of separable connectors designed to meet today’s growing power demands.

Deadbreaks

For De-Energized Switching & Termination

Designed for safe, reliable connections in de-energized underground distribution systems, 3M Deadbreak Connectors deliver consistent performance.

Rated for 15 kV, 25 kV, and 35 kV systems
Submersible and direct-buried rated designs
Available for IEEE and IEC standards

Loadbreaks

For Live-Line Switching Solutions

Engineered to make and break connections under full load conditions, 3M Loadbreak Connectors provide safe, efficient switching for underground distribution networks without de-energizing the system.

Rated for 15 kV, 25 kV, and 35 kV systems
200 A configurations available
Arc-quenching technology for operator safety

Elbow Arrester

For Overvoltage Protection

3M Surge Arresters protect critical underground distribution equipment from damaging voltage surges and lightning events, extending the life of your network assets.

Available for 15 kV, 25 kV, and 35 kV systems
MOV-based technology for consistent clamping performance
Compact, submersible-rated housing for underground vaults

Accessories

For Complete System Components

A comprehensive range of components designed to complement and complete your separable connector system, ensuring seamless installation and long-term reliability.

Includes feed-through inserts, bushings, and caps
Fully compatible with 3M Shearbolt and IPVS products
Simplifies procurement with a single-source solution

Markets

Medium voltage separable connectors are the ideal solution when systems need maintenance isolation, switching flexibility, or future expansion.

Datacenters

In environments where uptime is critical, it’s important to have flexible and scalable components that minimize downtime.

Fast maintenance switching between feeds
Future capacity expansion without outages
Faster equipment replacement cycles

Renewable Energy

Keep up with rapid operations and maintenance cycles for solar, wind, and battery storage facilities.

Plug-and-play MV collector systems for streamlined energy integration
Modularity to enable rapid site expansion and storage capacity growth
Reduced downtime during equipment reconfiguration and battery system upgrades

Applications

Engineered for the critical connection points that keep your network running - from generators and switches to transformers and beyond.

Generators

More easily commission or swap generator units to accommodate scaling or maintaining distributed energy or backup power systems.

Quick connect/disconnect for portable or rental units
Supports paralleling switchgear configurations
Simplifies seasonal or temporary generation hookups

Switches

Enable live circuit reconfiguration in loop-fed distribution systems like pad-mounted and subsurface switchgear systems.

Speed up routine energized switching
Fault isolation without de-energizing adjacent circuits
Standardized bushing interfaces across manufacturers

Transformers

Enable Pad-mounted and submersible transformer replacement without cable splicing.

Direct interface with IEEE and IEC bushing wells
Loop-feed through with T-body configurations
Fully submersible options for below-grade vaults

Separable Connector FAQs

What's the difference between loadbreak and deadbreak connectors?

Loadbreak connectors can be safely connected and disconnected while the circuit is energized and carrying load. They're used in pad-mounted transformers and loop-fed systems where live switching is a routine operational need.

Deadbreak connectors are designed to be connected or disconnected only when the circuit is de-energized. They're typically used at junction points where future reconfiguration access is needed but routine live switching is not. Deadbreak connectors are generally simpler and lower cost than loadbreak equivalents.

What are 3M separable connectors compliant to?

The 3M™ Medium Voltage Separable Connectors for IEC standard applications meet all relevant requirements of HD 629.1 and IEC 60502-4, and fits bushing type C which follows EN-50180 and 50181 inside medium voltage switchgear.

The 3M™ Medium Voltage Separable Connectors for IEEE standard applications meet all relevant requirements of ANSI/IEEE Standard 386 – "Separable Insulated Connector Systems."

What maintenance do separable connectors require?

Maintenance requirements vary by application, but typically include periodic inspection for physical damage, signs of overheating, contamination, moisture ingress, and verification that the installation remains in good condition.

Are 3M Shearbolt and Compression Lugs compatible with 3M Separable Connectors?

Yes. 3M offers a range of shearbolt and compression lugs engineered to work with our separable connector portfolio. These components are designed to help ensure secure, reliable cable terminations while simplifying installation and reducing the risk of connection errors in the field.