End-of-life phenomena of splices and conductors, including copper conductors

When conductors and splices are operated beyond their intended service life and under conditions substantially different from original design objectives, care must be exercised in judging the reliability and potential service problems. Old conductors and splices successfully for long periods increasing and unexpected temperatures are increased. Properties of old copper conductors are difficult to ascertain. Substantial care and caution should be exercised when copper conductors are operated at high temperatures. In the operation of old lines, one may encounter phenomena which are specific only to very old conductors. It is very hard to extrapolate such performance. The only practical solution is recognition that lines with old conductors require increased inspection frequency.