Overview
The Erico Cadweld HDGBD18 ground rod splice mold is a semi-permanent graphite mold used in exothermic welding systems to create permanent electrical connections between cables and ground rods. CADWELD ground rod splices are very strong and use the proven corrosion resistant CADWELD connection. Heavy duty connections were originally developed to be used on reclaimed cable and use a larger size connection cavity in the mold and a larger size welding material than the equivalent standard duty connection.
Key Features
- Heavy-duty design: Heavy duty connections eliminate cutting the run conductor on certain types of connections, reduce cable cleaning requirements for old or reclaimed cable, and increase reliability under adverse field conditions.
- Exothermic technology: nVent ERICO Cadweld Exothermic Connections are rated with the same current capacity as the conductor.
- No external power required: Portable installation equipment with no external source of power needed for field deployment.
- Inspectable connections: Completed welds can be visually inspected for quality assurance.
- Copper-bonded rod compatibility: Designed specifically for use with 3/4″ diameter copper-bonded ground rods.
Technical Specifications
The HDGBD18 mold is engineered for precise, repeatable exothermic welding of ground connections. Installation requires only standard Cadweld welding material (not included) and a flint ignitor for activation.
Typical Applications
- Grounding systems for electrical distribution networks and substations
- Telecommunications grounding and protection systems
- Lightning protection and surge grounding
- Cable-to-ground-rod connections requiring permanent, corrosion-resistant joints
- Reclaimed or aged cable connections where cleaning is limited
- Electrical utility and industrial facility grounding installations
Compatibility & Replacements
Compatible With
- 3/4″ diameter copper-bonded ground rods
- 3/4″ diameter copper-clad ground rods
- Cadweld exothermic welding material (standard-duty and heavy-duty formulations)
- Cadweld mold handle and clamp assembly tools
- Single cable to top of ground rod connections
Replaces / Drop-In Replacement For
Verify compatibility with your system integrator or electrical contractor before ordering. The HDGBD18 is designed to replace worn or damaged HD-series molds for 3/4″ copper-bonded rod applications.
Works With
- Cadweld exothermic welding compound materials
- Cadweld flint ignitor systems
- Industry-standard handle clamps and installation tools
- CSA C22.2 No. 41 compliant installations
