AEP Tools & Equipment Operation 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: When using a hydraulic crimping tool on high-voltage cable lugs, what must be verified before each crimp cycle?
- Hydraulic fluid level and die alignment (Correct answer)
- Cable insulation color code
- Ambient temperature reading
- Work order number
Correct answer: Hydraulic fluid level and die alignment
Correct hydraulic fluid level ensures full tonnage is achieved, and die alignment prevents off-center crimps that weaken the connection.
Question 2: An AEP lineman needs to cut a live secondary conductor using approved insulated tools. Which tool is specifically designed for this task?
- Bypass pliers
- Insulated bolt cutter (Correct answer)
- Wire stripper
- Compression sleeve puller
Correct answer: Insulated bolt cutter
Insulated bolt cutters rated for the applicable voltage are the correct tool for cutting energized secondary conductors safely.
Question 3: A hot stick's insulating section must be kept free of contaminants. Which cleaning agent is approved for fiberglass hot sticks?
- WD-40 spray lubricant
- Isopropyl alcohol or approved dielectric cleaner (Correct answer)
- Petroleum-based solvent
- Water and dish soap
Correct answer: Isopropyl alcohol or approved dielectric cleaner
Isopropyl alcohol or manufacturer-approved dielectric cleaners remove surface contamination without degrading the fiberglass matrix.
Question 4: What is the primary function of a load buster tool when used on a distribution system?
- Measuring load current without interrupting service
- Safely interrupting energized cutout fuses under load (Correct answer)
- Grounding distribution conductors
- Testing fuse integrity before installation
Correct answer: Safely interrupting energized cutout fuses under load
A load buster (or load break tool) absorbs the arc energy when opening an energized cutout, preventing damage and injury.
Question 5: During transformer installation, a come-along (lever hoist) begins to slip under load. The correct immediate action is to:
- Continue pulling slowly to complete the lift
- Lower the load, inspect the ratchet mechanism, and replace if worn (Correct answer)
- Apply chain lubricant and resume lifting
- Have a second worker push the load from below
Correct answer: Lower the load, inspect the ratchet mechanism, and replace if worn
A slipping ratchet indicates wear or damage; continuing to lift risks uncontrolled load release, so the tool must be inspected and replaced.
Question 6: When setting up a portable generator at an AEP storm restoration site, which grounding step is required before energizing loads?
- Connect the frame to a driven ground rod (Correct answer)
- Attach a green wire to the neutral terminal only
- Place the generator on a rubber mat
- Verify the oil pressure gauge reads zero
Correct answer: Connect the frame to a driven ground rod
The generator frame must be bonded to an earth ground rod to provide a safe fault current path and prevent touch voltage hazards.
Question 7: A dielectric glove that passes an air inflation test but shows a small pinhole when immersed in water should be:
- Returned to service since it passed the inflation test
- Used only for low-voltage tasks
- Removed from service and destroyed (Correct answer)
- Repaired with rubber cement and retested
Correct answer: Removed from service and destroyed
Any puncture or pinhole compromises the glove's insulating integrity; it must be removed from service and destroyed to prevent accidental reuse.
AEP Tools & Equipment Operation 2
When using a hydraulic crimping tool on high-voltage cable lugs, what must be verified before each crimp cycle?