All About Anchor Clamp You Should Know

1. What Is an Anchor Clamp?

Dead end clamp Products

A clamp anchor is a specialised component in overhead line accessories designed to hold aerial cables in tension securely. It functions as a mechanical cable termination that ensures the cable remains in place against tension, wind, and gravity. Commonly used in Low Voltage Aerial Bundled Cable (LV-ABC) systems, an anchor clamp—sometimes referred to as an anchoring clamp—acts as the final point of mechanical stress absorption, especially critical in power distribution and telecommunication networks.

2. Feature of Work Principle Anchor Clamp

Anchor clamps operate on a wedge locking system, where a tapered wedge slides into a body housing to compress and lock the cable. As the cable is pulled under tension, the wedge tightens itself further, making the grip even stronger. This mechanical locking principle eliminates the need for external tools while ensuring damage-free clamping for insulated cables. This technology is pivotal in reducing slippage and ensuring reliable anchoring in high-load scenarios.

3. What Is the Use of an Anchor Clamp?

Anchor clamps are essential for:

• Supporting mechanical cable termination in distribution lines
• Managing cable direction at junctions and corners
• Ensuring the structural integrity of aerial cables in open-air installations
• Terminating overhead spans and absorbing tension load anchor points

They form a critical part of cable installation hardware for electrical utilities and infrastructure projects.

4. Anchor Clamp Type

4.1. Wedge Clamps

Utilise a plastic or metallic body with an internal wedge to grip the cable. These are often used in abc cable fitting systems for overhead power lines.

4.2. Parallel Clamp

Provides a grip between two parallel cables, generally for alignment or distribution purposes in control systems.

4.3. Suspension Clamp

Suspension Clamp

Allows vertical drop or free movement; commonly used in areas with directional changes.

4.4. Bolted Clamp

Secures the cable with bolts; ideal for higher load applications and adjustable setups.

4.5. Dead-End Clamps

Dead End Clamp

Specialised for mechanical cable termination at the endpoint of a line. Offers high grip strength to handle full cable tension.

5. Benefits of Anchoring Clamp

5.1. High Tensile Strength

Engineered to manage tension loads of up to 15kN, making them ideal for long spans and heavy cable installations.

5.2. Time-Saving Design

Quick setup without the need for torque tools. Wedge systems are particularly efficient.

5.3. Safety and Stability

Prevents insulation damage and slippage under dynamic conditions like wind or vibration.

5.4. Cost-Effectiveness

Most clamps are reusable and contribute to reduced maintenance costs over time.

5.5. Corrosion Resistance

Many clamps are built as anti-corrosion clamps, made from UV-stabilised thermoplastics or anodised aluminum, ensuring long-term reliability in outdoor installations.

6. Anchor Clamp vs. Dead End Clamp

7. Installation Tips for Clamp Anchor

Tension anchoring clamp for overhead line Installation operation diagram

Installing a clamp anchor correctly is critical to ensuring a safe and secure mechanical cable termination in any overhead line project. Whether you’re working on LV-ABC systems or telecommunication spans, proper handling and placement of the clamp will improve load distribution and reduce risk.

Here are essential tips for smooth, field-proven installation:

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Pre-Check the Components

   • Confirm that the clamp anchor matches the cable size and insulation diameter.

   • Inspect the wedge locking system for factory-fitted integrity—no cracks, chips, or deformations.

2. Open the Clamp

   • Gently spread the jaws or release the locking wedge using manual force or a basic tool, depending on the clamp model.

3. Insert the Cable

   • Align the cable within the groove. For ABC cables, ensure the neutral messenger (if applicable) is centered.

   • Make sure the conductor doesn’t touch any metal part of the clamp directly to prevent electrical hazards.

4. Engage the Wedge

   • Push the wedge into the housing gradually until the cable is gripped securely.

   • This wedge locking system is self-tightening, eliminating the need for complex tools or torque meters.

5. Secure the Bail or Hook

   • Attach the overhead line accessory such as a stainless steel bail or eye hook to the pole or bracket firmly.

6. Final Inspection

   • Check for slippage, proper alignment, and ensure the cable tensioning device does not apply uneven force.

Pro Tip: For environments with salt exposure or acid rain, use an anti-corrosion clamp to extend lifespan and reduce maintenance frequency.

8. Maintenance and Longevity of Anchor Clamps

Once installed, the longevity of an anchoring clamp depends on routine maintenance and environmental factors. High-quality clamps like those offered by SUNJ are built from durable polymers and metals, yet periodic checks are still essential for reliable electrical cable fixing.

Routine Maintenance Checklist

8.1. Regular Inspection

• Check every 6–12 months for visible wear, UV damage, or signs of stress on the wedge tension anchor clamp.

• Ensure the wedge remains in place and shows no movement under static load.

8.2. Cleaning and Protection

• Remove dirt, plant growth, and debris from the clamp housing to ensure the wedge functions properly.

• In high-humidity or coastal areas, inspect all anti-corrosion clamp components for early rust or salt build-up.

8.3. Performance Monitoring

• Monitor mechanical load performance in long-span systems with a cable tensioning device to detect early fatigue.

• In industrial zones, check for chemical exposure that may degrade polymer-based parts.

8.4. Service Life & Replacement Guidelines

• High-quality clamp style anchor units typically last 10–15 years in standard conditions.

• Replace the clamp if you notice:

  • Wedge deformation or slip

  • Cracks in the clamp body

  • Corrosion beyond surface level

  • Poor grip on the cable under tension

Pro Tip: Keep an extra stock of cable installation hardware for quick field replacement during inspections, especially in multi-span distribution networks.

9. How to Choose the Right Anchoring Clamp

9.1. Cable Compatibility

Verify the cable insulation diameter and conductor type. ABC cables require specific cable clamp dimensions.

9.2. Load Requirements

Calculate the tension load anchor demand based on cable span, weight, and wind speed.

9.3. Material and Coating

Choose anti-corrosion clamp materials like 304 stainless steel or anodised aluminum for coastal and humid zones.

9.4. Environmental Considerations

UV resistance and temperature tolerance are crucial for overhead installations.

9.5. Certification & Standards

Ensure compliance with IEC, NFC, or equivalent standards in your country or target market.

10. Conclusion

A well-selected clamp anchor system is more than a mechanical component—it’s a cornerstone of safety and reliability in modern energy networks. Whether you’re dealing with overhead line accessories, installing mechanical cable terminations, or evaluating vendors for your next cable anchoring project, understanding product types, tension limits, and corrosion resistance will empower you to make informed decisions. This is especially crucial for procurement specialists and electrical engineers seeking long-lasting and compliant infrastructure solutions.