What is the purpose of inhibitor compound in conductor splices?

• A. Acts as a lubricant that prevents conductor damage during the squeezing process
• B. Eliminates air gaps that might cause hot spots in the splice
• C. Seals the contact area during termination preventing performance degrading oxidation and corrosion
• D. All of the above

Answer: (C)

An inhibitor compound is used at the splice interface to seal the contact area and keep out moisture and air, which prevents oxidation and corrosion of the metal surfaces. Oxidation at the contact increases resistance and can lead to heating and failures, so the inhibitor helps maintain a reliable, low-resistance connection over time. It isn’t primarily a lubricant to ease squeezing, and it isn’t meant to fill gaps to stop hot spots—those issues are addressed by proper compression and splice design. That's why sealing against oxidation and corrosion best describes the inhibitor’s role.