UNDERGROUND CONSTRUCTION
CABLE CREEPAGE

Cable creepage is when a cable moves in the duct towards the manhole and bends the cable where it meets the joint, eventually causing sheaf rupture, water ingress or wires making contact with each other.

The cause is normally caused by vibrations from highway traffic and generally follows the direction of the traffic above.

Cable Anchors are used to prevent creepage by securing the cables so they cannot move.

For more information see Lines, Underground F1901.

The nearest Lead joint has been stretched and the cover is breaking up

The medium sized cable on the right has moved into the manhole
The cable has a nasty bend in it, which is problematic for paper insulated cables

Last revised: April 16, 2023