A system and procedure for evaluating separable connector ablative material performance

A test system has been developed that performs a functional test of the ablative materials in loadbreak separable connectors under controlled and repeatable conditions without using a complete elbow and bushing connector system. This system allows for close examination of subtle differences in ablative materials, always with respect to their functional requirements. As a result, ablative materials can be evaluated more readily and less expensively both for monitoring performance of existing materials and for examining new materials, leading ultimately to improved connector performance