Split Bolt Wire Direction?

[Dan0]

Almost every time I've seen a Split Bolt used, I see one wire going in one side, and the other wire going out the other.
Would it make any difference if both wires came into the connector from the same side?

Thanks

 

[big john]

Only to the extent that thick insulation may push the conductors apart. Not much of a concern in my opinion.

 

[K8MHZ]

Almost every time I've seen a Split Bolt used, I see one wire going in one side, and the other wire going out the other.
Would it make any difference if both wires came into the connector from the same side?

Thanks

As far as physical strength, it would make a difference. If both came into the same side, the splice would be much weaker. Also, if the terminology 'run and tap' means what I think it does, such a connection as you describe is not part of the product specs that I found.

http://ecat.burndy.com/Comergent/en...catProductDetail&showAddButton=true#Approvals / Certifications

 

[big john]

...If both came into the same side, the splice would be much weaker....

What's the thinking there?

Also, if the terminology 'run and tap' means what I think it does, such a connection as you describe is not part of the product specs that I found.

Not sure if a "run" wire has to be continuous through the split bolt or not. Doesn't seem like it would make a difference.

I do know it's a technical violation to use them on more than two conductors like we often do.

 

[K8MHZ]

What's the thinking there? Not sure if a "run" wire has to be continuous through the split bolt or not. Doesn't seem like it would make a difference.

I do know it's a technical violation to use them on more than two conductors like we often do.

Tension pulling the conductors apart would be on a bend as opposed to straight on. The bend would create a weak point. FWIW, I did a search and couldn't find a single picture of a split bolt used the way the OP describes.

I don't know what they mean by 'run and tap', either for sure. I just was thinking that 'run' meant straight run.

 

[K8MHZ]

I did find this video with a split bolt being used with both conductors on one side:

 

[Smart $]

...I don't know what they mean by 'run and tap', either for sure. I just was thinking that 'run' meant straight run.

the "run" is typically the larger or through conductor. The tap is the dead-ended, usually smaller conductor.

 

[K8MHZ]

the "run" is typically the larger or through conductor. The tap is the dead-ended, usually smaller conductor.

That makes sense. Thanks.

 

[GoldDigger]

To my mind the biggest difference about the single sided configuration is that although it is mechanically weaker (do not use on a messenger wire!), it is easier to wrap tape around and to manipulate in the box.

 

[petersonra]

I doubt that it makes any real difference.

 

[mivey]

I doubt that it makes any real difference.

It does if you are the one packing the box or trough.

 

[iwire]

I think the real question is why are we using split bolts with so many other great options available?

 

[Dan0]

Thanks for all the comments...

So... how about electrically? Do you end up with a hotter joint now because you are making a 180º turn?

 

[mivey]

I think the real question is why are we using split bolts with so many other great options available?

Because we are getting paid by the hour and we love the wrenching, hammering, more wrenching, more hammering, rubber wrap, endless taping, then on to the next connection.

 

[mivey]

So... how about electrically? Do you end up with a hotter joint now because you are making a 180º turn?

Yes. But I would have to think about if it is statistically significant. At first thought I would say it is not.

 

[Smart $]

Yes. But I would have to think about if it is statistically significant. At first thought I would say it is not.

I agree. Mechanically weaker is rather moot if there's not supposed to be any stress on the connection anyway.

 

[Dan0]

Although the joint should have no mechanical stress... I wonder about the electrical stresses, heating and cooling the joint and working itself loose.

 

[kwired]

Although the joint should have no mechanical stress... I wonder about the electrical stresses, heating and cooling the joint and working itself loose.

Isn't that a concern with any termination method?

 

[mivey]

Isn't that a concern with any termination method?

With mechanical anyway.