NEC Requirement for "NO-OX" Type Grease

[joef]

I realize that it is good practice to use a "NO-OX" type grease when connecting an aluminum cable to the main lugs of a residential panel main breaker, but does the NEC spell that out anywhere?

 

[ryan_618]

Re: NEC Requirement for "NO-OX" Type Grease

110.14 discusses it a bit.

 

[iwire]

Re: NEC Requirement for "NO-OX" Type Grease

The use of oxide inhibitors is not required by the NEC.

Unless the directions for the equipment you are terminating to tell you to use it.

Then it would be required by 110.3(B) and would have to meet the requirements in 110.14

I recently used a GE safety switch that stated to wire brush the conductor and use oxide inhibitors if using aluminum conductors.

[ January 15, 2004, 04:10 PM: Message edited by: iwire ]

 

[electricmanscott]

Re: NEC Requirement for "NO-OX" Type Grease

Some oxide inhibitors say not to wirebrush the conductor. :roll: Read the directions .

 

[don_resqcapt19]

Re: NEC Requirement for "NO-OX" Type Grease

And some say to put the stuff on before you wire brush.
Don

 

[electricmanscott]

Re: NEC Requirement for "NO-OX" Type Grease

Originally posted by iwire:
I recently used a GE safety switch that stated to wire brush the conductor and use oxide inhibitors if using aluminum conductors.

I find it odd that they would be instructing you on how to use another product.

 

[don_resqcapt19]

Re: NEC Requirement for "NO-OX" Type Grease

Scott,
What aluminum oxide inhibitor product says not to wire brush the oxide off the outer surface when using it? All that I have?used required wire brushing or other methods of removing the oxide. At least one product requires that the inhibitor be put on the wire before you wire brush it.
Don

 

[tom baker]

Re: NEC Requirement for "NO-OX" Type Grease

When UL tests a Al connector and Al cable, it is first tested with no oxide inhibitor. If the connector overheats and fails the test, then the test is repeated with oxide inhibitor.