STX150-550SPVC

Frequently Asked Questions

How to Install STX Series PVC Cable Fittings

This guide provides step-by-step instructions for installing STX Series Star Teck™ PVC cable fittings, including cable preparation, boot trimming, and sealing compound application for both power and shielded data cables. This product must be installed by a qualified electrician in accordance with national and local electrical codes. Fittings for hazardous locations must be assembled with either SC4-KIT-1 LIQUID SEALANT or SC65 PUTTY SEALANT.

Estimated time: 1h

1. De-energize Circuits

   WARNING: Risk of electrical shock. Before installing or performing maintenance, verify that all circuits are de-energized. Only use this fitting with the cables listed in the product documentation.

2. Prepare the Cable

   Determine the required working length of conductors inside the enclosure or device. Remove a portion of the outer jacket to expose the armor, then cut the armor using a hacksaw. CAUTION: Do not nick or cut the conductor insulation. Trim the outer jacket to the armor strip length indicated in the product table for your specific STX fitting (e.g., for STX150-550PVC, refer to the table for the appropriate strip length).

3. Trim the Cable Boot

   To determine where to cut the cable boot, choose one of the following methods: Method 1: Unscrew the gland nut from the body, force the square-cut cable into the boot, and cut the boot in front of the cable. Method 2: Strip the cable jacket off the armor, then progressively cut slices off the boot until the opening can snugly slide onto the armor. Note: PVC coated fittings should be installed using strap wrenches only. Apply lubricant where indicated prior to screwing the gland nut.

4. Insert and Seal Cable

   Feed the prepared cable through the gland nut opening and push until the cable armor hits the end stop. Tighten the gland nut until you obtain an appropriate seal or to the maximum torque specified in the product table (e.g., 1200 IN-LBS for STX150-550PVC). Ensure the bushing seals evenly around the cable’s outer jacket and the cable remains centered to obtain an optimal seal.

5. Disassemble for Sealing Compound Application

   Disassemble the hub from the body sub-assembly by loosening the union. Unscrew the sealing chamber from the body sub-assembly.

6. Prepare Conductors (Power Cables)

   Trim the inner jacket to a length of 1/8” to 3/8” to expose the conductor bundle. If you are installing shielded data cables, refer to Step 7 for additional preparation steps.

7. Prepare Shielded Data Cables (Optional)

   If installing shielded data cables, trim the inner jacket to a length of 1/8”-3/8” to expose the shielded conductor bundle. Carefully remove the outer (overall) shield from the conductor bundle, taking care not to nick or damage the inner shields. Remove any filler materials, ensuring not to disturb or damage inner shields.

8. Apply Liquid Sealing Compound (SC4-KIT-1)

   If using SC4-KIT-1 liquid sealant: Pack the fiber damming material tightly into all voids between conductors and the body, spreading strands of uninsulated grounding conductor where applicable. Screw the sealing chamber back onto the body subassembly until it completely seats on the body. Position the cable/fitting into a vertical position. Mix the sealing compound following instructions provided on its package. Dispense sealing compound into the end of the sealing chamber until the level of compound stabilizes. For fittings up to and including STX250-476, fill to the top. For fittings STX300-478 and up, fill approximately HALF of the sealing chamber, wait 2 hours, and then fill the rest of the sealing chamber to the top. CAUTION: Remove all excess compound material from outside of the sealing chamber with a damp cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners.

9. Apply Putty Sealing Compound (SC65)

   If using SC65 putty sealant (Note: Do not use SC65 for shielded cables or cables with 5 or more conductors including ground): Slightly spread insulated conductors and strands of uninsulated grounding conductor where applicable. Thoroughly mix the two parts of the sealing compound until the resulting mixture is one uniform color (blue) without any streaks. Usable life after mixing is 30 minutes at 70°F (21°C). WARNING: Wear gloves and other proper PPE. Apply a small portion of sealing compound in the middle of insulated conductors and between individual strands of uninsulated grounding conductor. Bring conductors back together and apply sealing compound all around conductors. Build up compound approximately equal to the small inside diameter of the sealing chamber, with a length approximately equal to the sealing chamber's length. Slide the sealing chamber onto the cable and compound, then screw it to the body sub-assembly until it completely seats on the body. Remove any excess compound. Fill the throat area of the sealing chamber with compound, using a suitable wooden dowel to pack compound tightly around conductors. CAUTION: Remove all excess compound material from outside of the sealing chamber with a damp cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners.

10. Mount Hub and Secure Assembly

    Mount the hub in the desired location. If using liquid sealing compound, wait approximately 1 hour for the compound to solidify. If using putty sealing compound, allow the compound to set for approximately one hour before disturbing conductors. Place the encapsulated assembly into the hub and secure it in position by tightening the union until it bottoms (metal to metal contact). Repack compound tightly around conductors if required.

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