<html><head><meta http-equiv="content-type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8"></head><body dir="auto"><div></div><div>Wrenches:</div><div><br></div><div>I am wondering why the proliferation of splices in PV leads? We all know splices are a weak link. </div><div><br></div><div>We allow only one connection between a module and the feeder destination-- be it a combiner, inverter or optimizer-- and it is an MC connector, one side of which is factory-made and provided by the module manufacturer. </div><div><br></div><div>If one plans and pulls PV circuits with forethought, splices should not be necessary. </div><div><br></div><div>If anyone wants to know more about how this can be accomplished, look at our web site or contact me off list. </div><div><br></div><div>William</div><div><br>On Apr 8, 2017, at 10:05 AM, Glenn Burt <<a href="mailto:glenn.burt@glbcc.com">glenn.burt@glbcc.com</a>> wrote:<br><br></div><blockquote type="cite"><div><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8"><div><div style="font-family: Calibri,sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">It is also worth noting that many of the SMA installation manuals specifically say do not use wire nuts on DC wiring. <br>Of course choosing to ignore the manufacturers installation instructions would be a NEC violation.</div></div><div dir="ltr"><hr><span style="font-family: Calibri,sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-weight: bold;">From: </span><span style="font-family: Calibri,sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;"><a href="mailto:drake.chamberlin@redwoodalliance.org">Drake</a></span><br><span style="font-family: Calibri,sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-weight: bold;">Sent: </span><span style="font-family: Calibri,sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">4/8/2017 12:10</span><br><span style="font-family: Calibri,sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-weight: bold;">To: </span><span style="font-family: Calibri,sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;"><a href="mailto:re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org">RE-wrenches</a></span><br><span style="font-family: Calibri,sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-weight: bold;">Subject: </span><span style="font-family: Calibri,sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">Re: [RE-wrenches] Polaris gone bad?</span><br><br></div>
<br>
At 01:35 PM 4/6/2017, you wrote:<br>
<blockquote class="cite" cite="" type="cite">Recently we interfaced with
another solar install firm that has gone back to wire nuts due to this
same problem.</blockquote>
<x-sigsep><p>
<br>
Wire nuts have the advantage of holding the wires tight with a spring.
The spring follows the cold flow of the copper over the years. A screw
type connection does not. <br><br>
When I service an old breaker box, usually the wires are loose under the
screw connections, especially on the neutral and grounding bars. Often
they are very loose, and I bet that the screws were tight after the
initial installation of the equipment. <br><br>
On old industrial control equipment, I've learned the hard way to tighten
all screws before doing anything in the box, as wires are prone to fall
out of the loose screw connections. Again, these connections have the
weakness of being held by terminal screws, with no spring to follow the
cold flow of the metal. <br><br>
With wire nuts, it can be a bit tricky to know if you have a good
connection, as the connection is hidden under the plastic cap. It is good
to pull hard on each wire separately to be sure it is securely under the
spring. It is crucial never to mix copper and aluminum under a wire nut
unless it is one specifically designed for the purpose. Unless
specifically listed, all out door wire nuts should be in a weather proof
box, and preferably taped. <br><br>
<a name="_MailAutoSig"></a>Drake Chamberlin<br>
<i>Athens Electric LLC<br>
OH License 44810<br>
CO License 3773<br>
NABCEP Certified Solar PV <br>
740-448-7328<br>
</i><a href="http://athens-electric.com/">http://athens-electric.com/</a>
<br>
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