Igniter Wire Splice 18AWG -25kV?

[MrJLH]

So I'am working on replacing some flare tip igniters.

The wire which runs to the igniter is a 18AWG, 25kV rated wire which runs from and ignition module/controller then up to the flare. The splice provided by the vendor is a ceramic terminal block with small set screws. The block is mounted in an enclosure similar to a GUAT.

I have a huge concern about this connection as assuring that I can have essentially a connection that will NEVER come loose. If I loose this connect and cant light a flare I'm screwed. l

Any recommendations for a 20AWG, 25kV splice?

 

[GoldDigger]

One nice thing about high voltage spark igniter circuits is that if a wire comes loose it just adds an additional small spark gap and the circuit still works. :happyyes:
Just don't let it come off completely and form a stray spark path to ground that could prevent the voltage getting high enough at the igniter itself.

 

[MrJLH]

One nice thing about high voltage spark igniter circuits is that if a wire comes loose it just adds an additional small spark gap and the circuit still works. :happyyes:
Just don't let it come off completely and form a stray spark path to ground that could prevent the voltage getting high enough at the igniter itself.

Your Funny :lol:

Three of my igniters have already failed. I just don't have enough confidence in this connection.

 

[GoldDigger]

Your Funny :lol:

Three of my igniters have already failed. I just don't have enough confidence in this connection.

In my (admittedly limited) experience igniter failures have involved mechanical damage to the spark gap, damaged wires, or failed electronic modules. Never a connection problem.

 

[MTW]

If your concern is reliability, can you eliminate the splice and run a continuous ignition cable from the control to the electrode? Why is a splice needed?

MTW

 

[MrJLH]

The spice is made at the terminal blocks. The white beads are ceramic which encase another wire which actually create the spark at the top of the flare. The ceramic is necessary to protect the wire from the high temps of the flare. A splice is needed as the wire on the other side of the terminal blocks goes to the ignition module.

 

[MrJLH]

In my (admittedly limited) experience igniter failures have involved mechanical damage to the spark gap, damaged wires, or failed electronic modules. Never a connection problem.

Yeah I have those problem as well. but I want to ensure that when I sign off on this I want a good run for 10+ years.