Electric-thermal-mechanical analysis of cable connection with screw-connected terminal strips using finite element method

Electric energy passes through many stages from the production to the usage, and many electrical connections take place at these stages. Electrical connections are quite important for system safety and electrical energy quality. In this study, the current-temperature relationship in the cable was investigated in the cable joints made with the screw connection terminals, depending on the torque being applied to the screw. In the numerical solution of the problem, Comsol Multiphysics program based on Finite Element Method was used. First, the screw-conductor interface was investigated based on the applied torque, and then electrical-thermal analysis was performed on this geometry. Experimental studies have been carried out to demonstrate the accuracy of the digital model and the conductors and terminals being used in household installations have been taken into account in these studies. The amount of deformation of the conductors depending on the torque applied to the screw and its effect to the current carrying capacity of these terminals having screw connection have been investigated. It has been seen that experimental and numerical studies are in harmony. The results show that the electrical contacts are an important part of the electrical energy system. Especially if there is a human factor on the case of electrical connections. It has been concluded that it is quite important to have the right connections from the point of both human and system security and economically. Key Words: Cable, COMSOL Multiphysics, Conductor junction, Electrical Analysis, Finite Element Method, Screw-connection terminal strips, Thermal Analysis.