Polaris type Pre-Insulated Connectors

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tybkeith

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The project specifications do not mention anything about Polaris type connectors. The contractor would like to use Polaris type connectors on a conductor run but the owner's inspector is rejecting the use of this product. The inspector's argument is "if it's not in the spec, you can not use it".
Is this reasonable?
My opinion is, the use of a Polaris type connector is a contractor's means-and-methods and if the spec does not explicitly exclude the use of these type of connectors than the contractor should be able to use them in a Code compliant installation.
What is your opinion?
https://www.nsiindustries.com/polaris/
 
infinity said:
So if they don't want Polaris type connectors what do they want?
Click to expand...
The inspector and maintenance & operations representative have not said what they want instead of Polaris type connectors. I believe they want the conductor to be continuous from source to load... but that is not required per the specifications either.
 
A bit of clarity would be nice. Are they wanting no splices or specifically no Polaris
 
tybkeith said:
The project specifications do not mention anything about Polaris type connectors. The contractor would like to use Polaris type connectors on a conductor run but the owner's inspector is rejecting the use of this product. The inspector's argument is "if it's not in the spec, you can not use it".
Is this reasonable?
My opinion is, the use of a Polaris type connector is a contractor's means-and-methods and if the spec does not explicitly exclude the use of these type of connectors than the contractor should be able to use them in a Code compliant installation.
What is your opinion?
https://www.nsiindustries.com/polaris/
Click to expand...
Are they service conductors? Could it be a 230.46 issue?
 
augie47 said:
A bit of clarity would be nice. Are they wanting no splices or specifically no Polaris
Click to expand...
Specifically, no Polaris type connectors. The inspectors are saying that because Polaris type connectors are not in the spec, the contractor can not use them in their installation. The inspectors are rejecting the use of Polaris type connectors even though there is nothing in the spec saying they can not use them.
 
tybkeith said:
Specifically, no Polaris type connectors. The inspectors are saying that because Polaris type connectors are not in the spec, the contractor can not use them in their installation. The inspectors are rejecting the use of Polaris type connectors even though there is nothing in the spec saying they can not use them.
Click to expand...
What do the specs say about connectors? Does it say which ones are allowed? If it uses a phrase like 'or equal' the AHJ usually reserves the right to interpret what is not 'similar'.
 
tybkeith said:
...I believe they want the conductor to be continuous from source to load... but that is not required per the specifications either.
Click to expand...

There is your issue.

If it were me, I'd say "I'd be happy to agree to a change order to redo the work to your new, previously unstated specification."

Also in any normal scenario it's stupid to reject Polaris connectors. Just make sure they're torqued and move on.
 
Thank you for your input.
This morning I spoke with the closest thing to a smart coworker I have access to. He agrees with me, the Specs do not list every possible material that the contractor can use. He said the manager and inspector don't know how to use Specs. It is not reasonable for the manager and inspector to say "if it isn't in the spec, the contractor can not use it".
So, you confirmed and so did the knowledgeable engineer. I appreciate it!
Stay safe and power on!
 
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