Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/155946
6 • SEPTEMBER 2013 • WORLD FENCE NEWS CornerStone ® The Million Cycle Hinge™ The first question I always ask when doing tech support for a suspected inductance loop failure is, "Was the loop lead-in run through conduit?" Unfortunately, many installers skip the important step of running the loop's lead-in through conduit. Some preformed loop manufacturers don't even include running the lead-in through conduit in their installation instructions, thinking their jacket and insulation is enough to protect their loop. Running the loop lead-in through conduit adds a lot more protection to a loop system than most would expect. For direct burial loops the added protection starts the day the loop and lead-in is positioned in the base. A careless worker with a sharp shovel, ® ® Keystone Advantage Keystone X Heavy Duty Key-Lockable Latches OrnaMAG™ Manta™ eXternal Mount Magnetic Key-Lockable Latches Metal Latches ® AquaLatch Magnetic Magnetic Pool Nylon Latches Safety Latches Everything you need to know about loops The importance of running the loop lead-in through conduit BY BRIAN DICKSON , GENERAL MANAGER – BD LOOPS ( CAGOI , IDEA SANCTIONED TRAINER ) saw, or tool can sever or break the jacket/insulation on the loop. Simply tripping over a loop lead-in could cause damage to the loop by pulling at the yoke (the connection where the loop meets the lead-in). Contractors removing wood concrete forms often use sharp tools such as shovels, picks, hooks, crowbars, or wrecking/landscaping bars that could easily damage the loop lead-in. Often these failures are not discovered until the new surface is completed, resulting in having to saw-cut into a brand new surface, which the customer will not be happy to see. BD Loops makes available on its web site a printable warning sign that can be positioned around direct burial loops to make others aware the loops are in the ground, hopefully preventing the loops from being damaged by a careless mistake. A good procedure to implement at your company is to test the loops before they are buried. On the BD Loops web site we have a printable sign off sheet where installers can record their Trident ™ Magnetic Pool Safety Latches testing results and have the owner (or foreman) sign off, making a record that the loops were operational when you leave the jobsite. Running the lead-in through conduit does not solely protect it from dangers associated with pre-construction. There is always a chance of the lead-in being nicked or severed days, months, or even years later. An example is a gardener's shovel or lawn trimmer, which can easily slice through the toughest jacket and cable insulation. Preventing damage to the loop and having a long lasting loop is our goal. This is why BD Loops promotes best installation practices and detailed instructions on how to continued on page 70