Get a Handle on Cable Prep: Weidmüller’s New Multi-Stripax for PV

The durable multi-stripax wire stripping tool from Weidmüller ensures clean and accurate stripping for photovoltaic wiring, preventing faults, broken PV systems, or injuries.


News July 05, 2024 by Austin Futrell

Weidmüller has recently addressed significant issues in the ever-evolving photovoltaic industry with the innovative multi-stripax stripping tool, designed with unique features to ensure precise stripping and minimize power loss.

In the photovoltaic (PV) industry, the challenge of inadequate stripping tools is a daily occurrence. A slight deviation in a PV conductor's cross-section can lead to significant power loss, impacting the efficiency of the entire PV system. With the new multi-stripax stripping tool, there can be a greater degree of confidence in the efficiency and performance of PV development.

 

Stripping and prepping PV cables

Weidmüller’s multi-stripax in use. Image used courtesy of Weidmüller

 

PV Conductors' Potential Problems

The solar photovoltaic industry uses solar panels to harness energy from the sun and convert it into electricity. These panels can generate high power levels ranging from 1,000 to 1,500 volts, depending on the size of the system. When dealing with high-power applications, it's crucial to use precise wire stripping tools. These tools are essential for the system's efficiency and for ensuring the safety of individuals involved in cleaning or maintenance tasks on the PV system. Any inaccuracies in wire stripping could result in the PV conductors being unable to handle the load, posing risks such as electric shocks, increased resistances, or even cable fires.

Solar cables are also designed with two layers of insulation, which can pose a challenge when using standard wire strippers. This double insulation protects the cables from environmental factors that come into play when using PV systems.

 

Closeup of the new multi-stripax PV tool

Guide plates enable the accurate and durable cutting of insulation. Image used courtesy of Weidmüller

 

The Multi-Stripax Soluton

The multi-stripax tool is designed to effectively and precisely remove insulation from PV conductors ranging from 4 to 10 mm2. This range covers the majority of conductors used in the PV industry, making the tool highly versatile. Weidmüller guarantees that the multi-stripax strippers will not cause damage to the conductors and insulation when used by PV system installers. This assurance underlines the reliability and safety of the tool for handling sensitive PV components.

The wire strippers are also engineered with specially designed blades that provide precision and dependability. Additionally, these strippers feature an integrated guide plate, a distinctive feature not typically found in other similar tools. This guide plate is a critical component of the wire strippers, addressing the specific challenges faced within the PV industry as outlined. Its primary function guarantees the conductor's consistent positioning and safeguards the cable against potential damage.

The durability of wire strippers is a crucial concern, as they are often subject to wear and tear when used in various industries. Addressing this issue, the multi-stripax wire strippers from Weidmüller offer exceptional durability, making them suitable for long-term use. If any components break, Weidmüller provides readily available replacement parts on their website, allowing for easy repairs without ordering an entirely new set of strippers. This saves time and ensures continued use of the tool without significant interruptions.