[RE-wrenches] Connectors and Crimpers

[ntrei at 1scom.net]

I had a similar discussion with staff at Enphase over their stating that the H4 connectors worked with MC4 connectors. The fit is not perfect which could lead to water penetration. 
But they did finally send me a copy of ETL test results approving using the two different brands.
Multi Connect, however said their warranty would be voided if any other connector was used with theirs.
Sure the crimping tool is expensive but the lugs always fit perfect. 
Jim Duncan
North Texas renewable Energy
Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

-----Original Message-----
From: Ray Walters <ray at solarray.com>
Sender: re-wrenches-bounces at lists.re-wrenches.org
Date: Mon, 28 Nov 2011 13:03:38 
To: RE-wrenches<re-wrenches at lists.re-wrenches.org>
Reply-To: RE-wrenches <re-wrenches at lists.re-wrenches.org>
Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] Connectors and Crimpers

The wrong crimping tool with the wrong crimp is a big no no. I've seen 
complete melt downs at high amps, because there was not enough contact 
between the wire and the connector.
I'm one of the guys here that will help you save money when it makes 
sense, but I've personally seen a lot of improper crimps, covered up in 
insulating material, go bad. I'm not a fan of split bolts for the same 
reason. Connectors like the Polaris splice blocks allow connections to 
be double checked, allow voltage check without disconnecting anything 
while trouble shooting, and make a reliable long term connection.
If you want to save money, just buy pre-made MC cables and cut them to 
length. You end up with some left over 10 ft peices of wire, but it's 
way cheaper than buying the tool.

Ray

On 11/28/2011 12:18 PM, Dave Bell wrote:
> Wondering if anyone has ever had any problem or AHJ questions regarding the use of a "non-UL listed" crimper in the creation of homerun cables?
> How about the use of cross brand connectors; like MC4 to MC4 "compatible" connectors (Amphenol H4, Lumburg LC4, Bizlink, etc)?
>
> UL listing dictates brand specific application, but it's difficult to maintain down to the tool level...
>
> Anyone had any experience or problems mixing it up?
>
>
> Dave Bell
> Engineering Services
> NABCEP Certified PV Installer(tm)
> DC Power Systems&  Solar Depot
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