Evolution of the Quick connect [RE-wrenches]

[Mark Frye]

William,

Here is a great example of exactly how the new Code will leave hanging in
the wind.

Effectively all connectors will have to be locking connectors since no
connectors can be opened under load without risk of harming the "operator"
(five years old or otherwise). There is no exception to this requirement
based on the location of the connector.

You are advocating putting the connectors inside conduit (I am not even sure
that this is allowed under other sections of the Code (<wire nuts and other
connectors have to be in junction boxes, so I am not even going to ask
whether or not you are allowed to slip the MC connector into the flex
conduit, but assuming it is allowed), I assume the current 1/2" diameter MC
connectors slip nicely in there.

Of course, there will be no way for you to fit the much large locking
connectors into this same flex conduit without going to a much larger size
flex. Current locking connectors being more on the size of 3/4" to 7/8" in
diameter.

MPF

-----Original Message-----
From: William Miller [mailto:wrmiller at charter.net]
Sent: Monday, January 14, 2008 12:58 PM
To: RE-wrenches at topica.com
Subject: RE: Evolution of the Quick connect [RE-wrenches]



Phil:

Protecting wiring behind a PV array is easier than most folks realize.  We
have been using Solar World since they were Arco and, until just recently,
the modules all had j-boxes with 1/2" knockouts.  We covered our wiring
with conduit and developed techniques which allowed us to install
connectors onto non-metallic liquid tight in about 3 seconds.  Total cost
of materials is about $2.50 per module.

Here is a link to a few photos that illustrate some of the concepts:
http://mpandc.com/practices/Procedures/PV_wiring/PV_wiring.html

We had arrangements to purchase Solar World modules with the J-boxes until
just recently, but now we are forced to use modules which do not allow us
to remove the USE cables.  We are now developing procedures to protect the
USE cables without the use of conduit since we no longer have knock-outs to
connect conduit to.  We are pretty much on-line for ground mounts as
pictured in the above link, and we are working out procedures for keeping
roof-mount wiring safer than other installers do.  This will be a market
niche for us capturing the high-end and safety conscious consumers.

We are hoping advances in the NEC and local codes will force the
manufacturers to bring back the j-box.

Please feel free to contact me off-list if anyone has questions.

William Miller


At 08:24 AM 1/14/2008, you wrote:

>I think raceways for
>PV conductors in accessible areas are a great idea -- I just don't know
>how to accomplish it, realistically.
>------------------------------------------------------------
>
>Phil Undercuffler


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