Just got done perusing this thread:
https://www.electrical-contractor.net/ubb/Forum5/HTML/000540.html

And I'm wondering - we've all seen ads for the "solderless" (crimp) connectors, and the "squeeze-splice" devices for 10-22AWG.

(No, I'm not talking about the "big" T&B/Burndy taps/spices/crimps, just the "little" plastic ones.)

The only place I could think of is connecting line cords inside lighting fixtures or small appliances - and that's for the "butt" connectors.

Despite a UL listing, how many of us actually use them on 110? And where?

Just curious...

DougW

Do you mean the standard red/blue/yellow "Stakon" type terminals?

I use lots of them when wiring control panels and similar equipment using stranded MTW type wire.

I also use them (spade lugs) when attaching stranded THHN conductors to device terminals. Even if it isn't strictly required according to UL, it makes for a neater job, IMO.

The buttsplices are occasionally useful for automotive wiring, such as replacing a stereo or tying in an alarm system. The insulation-piercing tap connectors are generally pretty lousy, though.

The most important trick to using these terminals reliably is a proper crimping tool. The only tools that work consistently well are the full-cycle ratcheting type, with a crimp die that completely encloses the terminal while crimping. The standard plier-type crimpers can either damage the plastic insulation or undercrimp the terminal.

Wondering (in particular) about these - "Insulation Displacement Connectors", that 3M says can be used for automotive or branch wiring. Anyone you know of ever used these in wiring a house - other than for phone/data/sound?

Sorry - URL seems to be too long to fit.

(long url removed - see below for working link)

[This message has been edited by Webmaster (edited 05-23-2004).]

Tried the link with no joy

[This message has been edited by Ever Ready (edited 05-23-2004).]

Lemme try: >> Insulation Displacement Connectors



[This message has been edited by Bill Addiss (edited 05-23-2004).]

I don't think they are all that great for cars and would not use it outside of it. They are great for under a dash when you don't have any room or slack on the wires. Just get your pliers up there and pinch it on. They are used for a lot of auto accesories for this reason. Not a good enough connection for anything that matters on a car.

I have herd some swear by them for large ballest change out jobs.

Tom

Thanks for the link Bill, I have used a lot of these in the past but only on low voltage equipment, I wouldn't like to use them on mains voltage.

Thanks Bill!

I've used them in cars myself, but was surprised to see the "UL Listed" for "house current" use, and suggested for branch circuit wiring.

I don't know if many of the AHJ's I've worked in would be too happy seeing those tucked into a 1900 in lieu of the traditional wire nut/pigtail combo!

Thanks to all,

Doug