Method of field replacement of an electrical connector for nuclear

Abstract

The method of repairing in situ a damaged or malfunctioning electrical connector (10) of a safety related nuclear reactor instrument (14) and its associated sheathed cable (18) wherein the damaged or malfunctioning connector portion (20) is cut from its associated cable (18) and replaced by a new connector portion. The wires of the cut cable are connected with the replacement connector portion and are suitably insulated. The cut cable and new connector portion are then secured together by a special alloy coupling (34) which is positioned in spanning relation with the cut cable (18) and the replacement connector portion (20). This special alloy has the property that it can be expanded within limits and upon being heated above a critical temperature will return to its original dimension. The tubular coupling accordingly has an expanded diameter slightly larger than that of the replacement connector portion and the sheath of the cut cable but an original inner diameter slightly smaller. When positioned in its spanning relation with these members it is heated above its critical temperature such that it shrinks to its original shape and securely grips these members. This special alloy coupling has both circumferential and axial ridges or barbs extending inward of its inner surface to engage each of the members extending thereinto when it is shrunk into place in order to enhance the sealing and torque resistance capability of the connection.