Sheetmetal screw for grounding #14

[Ravenvalor]

Hello,

Was there something in the last code cycle that allows the use of sheetmetal screws for grounding #14 & 12?

Thank you,

 

[LarryFine]

Was there something in the last code cycle that allows the use of sheetmetal screws for grounding #14 & 12?

Who's "last code cycle?"

Nothing I've seen, read, or heard about.

 

[Ravenvalor]

Who's "last code cycle?"

Nothing I've seen, read, or heard about.

2008 NEC.

Thanks,

 

[jumper]

2008 NEC.

Thanks,

Neither 05 or 08 allows this.

 

[Ravenvalor]

Neither 05 or 08 allows this.

Thanks for the heads up.

 

[jumper]

Thanks for the heads up.

You are welcome. How about a pic.

 

[ActionDave]

In previous codes sheet metal screws were prohibited by name. In '08 that phrase was removed.

 

[480sparky]

The sheet metal (by name) goes back to '99. I can't find it before that.

 

[LEO2854]

The sheet metal (by name) goes back to '99. I can't find it before that.

in the 1996 NEC PAGE 70-152 ARTICLE 250-113 Sheet metal screws shall not be used. i could not find it in the 1993

 

[Jim W in Tampa]

Self tap screws might be legal but you need 2 theads and then cut off sharp end. Faster to just use nut and bolt

 

[tom baker]

Self tap screws might be legal but you need 2 theads and then cut off sharp end. Faster to just use nut and bolt

Self drilling or TEK screws are not allowed, thread forming screws are, but metal must be min of 1/16" thick. In the 05 NEC you could use any screw but a sheet metal screw.

 

[Jim W in Tampa]

Self drilling or TEK screws are not allowed, thread forming screws are, but metal must be min of 1/16" thick. In the 05 NEC you could use any screw but a sheet metal screw.

Are we allowed to drill and tap the box ?

 

[480sparky]

Are we allowed to drill and tap the box ?

Yes .

 

[Jim W in Tampa]

Yes .

So if i use self tap screw and then use #10 green screw is there a problem ?

 

[480sparky]

So if i use self tap screw and then use #10 green screw is there a problem ?

No, as long as there's two threads engaged.

 

[LEO2854]

So if i use self tap screw and then use #10 green screw is there a problem ?

the best way is to use a 10/32 tap.check this out.http://www.grainger.com/Grainger/GREENLEE-Combination-DrillTap-and-Countersink-4GB12

 

[earlejohnson]

two threads

two threads

what code is this?

 

[480sparky]

what code is this?

250.8 .

 

[Jim W in Tampa]

I can not see the logic behind not allowing a self tap screw if i have 2 threads other than the sharp point that could be cut off. What am i missing ?

 

[goldstar]

Sections 250.8 (1)(3)(7)(8) all have the word listed. I would think that any method used would have to be listed or identified for use. IMHO, just because the NEC drops a specific language doesn't mean you are free to use the mounting screw inside a 4" square box to secure the ground wire.

I know that wasn't what the OP originally asked but as long as we're discussing the possibility of using a sheet metal screw the conversation could go from using a separate sheet metal screw to using any available sheet metal screw. IMHO, it's not identified for the specific use.