Code Question Of The Day

Subject: CQD - 5/9/12

Charlie,

I think 300.34 would be helpful for the bending radius question from 5/9/12.

Thanks,
Doug Taylor

Subject: Stranded Wire Device Terminations

On the subject of attaching stranded wire onto a device, in the past I have also wrapped the stranded conductor around the side wired device screw, which rarely made a good connection. I have since learned that purchasing back wired devices for the connection of stranded wire and side wired devices for the connection of solid wire seems to be the more proper workmanlike manner.

Thanks for the opportunity to share,
Roger Gleber
IBEW Local #1

Hey Roger, thanks for commenting. I believe you have to review your receptacle device termination procedures. In accordance with 110.3(B), check out the manufacturers’ instructions for terminating their devices. Their listing with UL permits the use of push-in terminations only for 14 AWG solid copper conductors installed on 15-ampere circuits. You are also correct in that there are some devices suitable for both strnded or solid wire that are back-wired under a clamping means that is tightened by the screw on the side of the device. Another acceptable means of making this connection.