Wiping Demonstration

Lead wiping of PILC 500kcmil - 500kcmil - #2 "Y" splice

02/16/2023 – Update
This video was originally uploaded for our apprentices to show the techniques used. I figured it was time to describe this process in greater detail due to the recent increase in viewers and comments.

Prior to the 1960’s when polyethylene sheathed cables were introduced, most high-voltage electrical cables were lead sheathed (PILC – Paper Insulated, Lead Covered). Wiping is a soldering process that involves mechanically working or ‘wiping’ a joint. This process is used on electrical splices (joints) designed to be underground / underwater. This not only seals the joints but maintains continuity of the lead sheath.

Wiped joints continue to be made as long as there are still lead cables in service. It is done by our journey-level line-workers or by an apprentice working under the supervision of a journey-level line-worker.

In high-voltage applications a mixture of 40% Lead (Pb) and 60% Tin (Sn) is used. A similar process was used in the past for telephone cables. This process cannot be used in plumbing applications as the joint would not be able to handle the high pressure.