Lineman Equipment and Tools Knowledge 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is the primary purpose of a come-along (cable puller) in lineman work?
- Stripping wire insulation
- Mechanically pulling or tensioning conductors and cables (Correct answer)
- Measuring conductor tension
- Splicing aluminum conductors
Correct answer: Mechanically pulling or tensioning conductors and cables
A come-along is a ratcheting hand tool used to mechanically pull, tension, or temporarily hold conductors and cables during installation.
Question 2: Which type of ladder is prohibited for use in electrical work due to its conductivity?
- Fiberglass ladder
- Aluminum ladder (Correct answer)
- Wood ladder
- Composite ladder
Correct answer: Aluminum ladder
Aluminum ladders conduct electricity and are prohibited for electrical work; fiberglass ladders are the standard because they are non-conductive.
Question 3: A hydraulic crimping tool is used to create what type of connection?
- A bolted mechanical connection
- A welded connection
- A compression connector that permanently joins conductors (Correct answer)
- A temporary clamp connection
Correct answer: A compression connector that permanently joins conductors
Hydraulic crimping tools apply high pressure to compression connectors, creating a permanent, gas-tight connection between conductors.
Question 4: What does the term 'hot stick' refer to in electrical line work?
- A heated soldering tool
- An insulated fiberglass pole used to work on energized lines (Correct answer)
- A device that measures conductor temperature
- A type of insulated glove
Correct answer: An insulated fiberglass pole used to work on energized lines
A hot stick is an insulated fiberglass or epoxy-glass pole that allows linemen to manipulate energized equipment while maintaining a safe distance.
Question 5: What is the correct storage method for rubber insulating gloves when not in use?
- Stored flat, folded neatly to save space
- Stored away from ozone, heat, and direct sunlight in a protective bag (Correct answer)
- Stored hanging on a hook in direct sunlight to dry
- Stored submerged in water to maintain flexibility
Correct answer: Stored away from ozone, heat, and direct sunlight in a protective bag
Rubber insulating gloves must be stored away from ozone sources, heat, UV light, and solvents to prevent degradation of the rubber compound.
Question 6: Which tool is specifically designed to cut through steel-reinforced aluminum conductor (ACSR) in the field?
- Diagonal cutting pliers
- Lineman's pliers
- A ratcheting cable cutter or hydraulic cutter (Correct answer)
- A hacksaw
Correct answer: A ratcheting cable cutter or hydraulic cutter
Ratcheting cable cutters or hydraulic cutters are designed to cleanly cut through the steel core and aluminum strands of ACSR without crushing the conductor.
Question 7: What is the function of a wire tong (or conductor tong) used during live-line work?
- Measuring conductor sag
- Gripping and moving an energized conductor safely from a distance (Correct answer)
- Connecting jumpers to a conductor
- Removing insulation from a conductor
Correct answer: Gripping and moving an energized conductor safely from a distance
Conductor tongs are insulated gripping tools that allow linemen to safely handle and reposition energized conductors while maintaining appropriate clearance.
Lineman Equipment and Tools Knowledge 2
What is the primary purpose of a come-along (cable puller) in lineman work?