Crimp question.

[Reigningscorpios]

In California, the inspectors completely frown on crimps on a lug of large wire being covered with tape because they can't inspect the imprints for accuracy and correct size of the crimp. Is this a matter of legality to NOT tape over the imprints?

 

[don_resqcapt19]

If they can't inspect it, how do they know you did it correctly? The use of the wrong size crimp lugs and the wrong tool is a common issue.

 

[Reigningscorpios]

If they can't inspect it, how do they know you did it correctly? The use of the wrong size crimp lugs and the wrong tool is a common issue.

Yes I understand the issue. I was more looking for an actual code specifying that you can't tape the lug. I've seen this also when someone tries to cover for stripping the wire too far back they will wrap and wrap to cover the excess copper showing and then tape the lug to try and make it uniform. I KNOW ITS BAD, but where is the code about the imprints?

 

[roger]

110.3(B) would probably cover it

 

[don_resqcapt19]

Yes I understand the issue. I was more looking for an actual code specifying that you can't tape the lug. I've seen this also when someone tries to cover for stripping the wire too far back they will wrap and wrap to cover the excess copper showing and then tape the lug to try and make it uniform. I KNOW ITS BAD, but where is the code about the imprints?

There is always 110.2, but Roger got it with 110.3(B).
The following is from the UL Guide Information for Wire Connectors and Soldering Lugs(ZMVV)

Use of specific tools — A specific tool and die used to assemble a wire connector to a conductor is identified on the connector, or on or within the unit container of the connector. The identification consists of a catalog or type designation, color-coding, die index number, or equivalent means. Color-coding of the crimp barrel is common.
Multiple crimping operations — The number of crimps necessary to make a connection using the specific tool is identified on the connector, or on or within the unit container of the connector. Location and number of crimping points is commonly located on the crimp barrel of the connector.

The only way to know if the specific tool and die was used is to see the crimp imprint.

 

[electrofelon]

IMO if they want to inspect it, they should have an amendment or local rule specifying lugs be inspected before taped or heat shrinked.

 

[rambojoe]

Take a picture... A obviously job specific pic.

 

[winnie]

Or clear heat shrink

 

[infinity]

Why tape it in the first place?

 

[tom baker]

Some lug mfgs require to use their tool. I prefer crimp tools from Milwaukee or greenlee that don’t make lugs, but you have to spend time in the catalog to match lug to die

 

[rambojoe]

Why tape it in the first place?

Specs... Most likely hot or cold (non clear...) shrink.
Tape? Not much point.

 

[infinity]

Is it a terminal or a butt spice? I see reason to tape a terminal. Unless it's an EGC or bare service neutral a barrel type butt splice needs to be insulated.

 

[electrofelon]

Is it a terminal or a butt spice? I see reason to tape a terminal. Unless it's an EGC or bare service neutral a barrel type butt splice needs to be insulated.

Some people like to put heat shrink over the barrel after crimping, particularly for AL conductors.

 

[SceneryDriver]

Just shrink the tubing after inspection. Leave it unshrunk and slid down the conductor so the inspector can see the imprint. Once you get signoff, slide the tubing up and apply heat.


SceneryDriver

 

[letgomywago]

Just shrink the tubing after inspection. Leave it unshrunk and slid down the conductor so the inspector can see the imprint. Once you get signoff, slide the tubing up and apply heat.


SceneryDriver

Taping after also would work it's not like it'll have much voltage to ground ever and you can do the last layer in white if you so feel the need.

 

[Reigningscorpios]

Why tape it in the first place?

Like I stated, things I have seen through the years and wondered if it was in black and white. I just happen to see a video where the guy taped it like it was habit.

 

[Reigningscorpios]

Trust me, I believe it should NEVER be taped. It shouldn't need to be. Personally, I would like to show the craftsmanship of the work.

 

[Reigningscorpios]

Is it a terminal or a butt spice? I see reason to tape a terminal. Unless it's an EGC or bare service neutral a barrel type butt splice needs to be insulated.

Of course a butt splice would since it could move around. The question is specifically crimp lugs. Thanks for asking.

 

[infinity]

Of course a butt splice would since it could move around. The question is specifically crimp lugs. Thanks for asking.

For butt splices we use cold shrinks which get put on when the conductors are crimped. The inspector is just going to have to trust that it's done correctly. Terminals never get taped but I have seen a few guys do it. Seems like a waste of time to me.