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EC&M Tech Talk Video — Requirements for Electrical Connections

Oct. 1, 2023
Learn more about NEC Sec. 110.14 requirements in Episode 31.

In Episode 31 of “EC&M Tech Talk,” Randy Barnett, a journeyman electrician, inspector, author, trainer, and electrical safety expert, discusses the requirements of the 2023 National Electrical Code for making electrical connections. Specifically, this information is found in Sec. 110.14 Electrical Connections.

Section 110.14 first provides some general information regarding connections. It is divided into four topics areas: terminals, splices, temperature limitations, and terminal torque requirements. First, Randy starts with general information about joining dissimilar conductor materials and moves through each of the four topics of Sec. 110.14. He discusses several examples. References in the Chapter 9 Tables can help electrical professionals understand conductor stranding requirements. Understanding that “any chain is only as good as its weakest link” is related to Table 310.16 for determining conductor ampacities. Randy uses an example of a receptacle with a 14 AWG THHN conductor to demonstrate the concept of the need to use the 60ºC column so as not to exceed device terminal temperature limitations; even though the THHN insulation is rated for 90ºC.  

The most important part of complying with Sec. 110.14 is to meet the requirements of the NEC Sec. 90.2 Practical Safeguarding: “… practical safeguarding of persons and property from the hazards arising from the use of electricity.” Understanding the rules for electrical connections and applying good field installation and maintenance techniques undoubtedly helps prevent fires.

About the Author

Randy Barnett | Certified Electrical Safety Compliance Professional

Barnett is an NFPA-certified electrical safety compliance professional with more than 35 years of industrial electrical construction, maintenance and training experience. He has worked as a journeyman electrician in nuclear and coal-fired power plants, on railroad locomotives and in various manufacturing environments. He is the author of “Commercial and Industrial Wiring” from ATP Publishers, the EC&M Book, “Introduction to Industrial Electrical Maintenance” and numerous articles. Randy conducts electrical code and safety classes worldwide and holds the NCPCCI General Electrical Inspector Certificate. He can be reached at [email protected].
 

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