A good reference is NEC 110.14(B), which requires splices to be made with approved connectors like compression connectors or mechanical lugs. While split bolts aren't explicitly prohibited, they must meet specific installation standards. Split bolts inside the panel can be unreliable long-term, which is why they're not usually recommended for service feeders. Check local codes for more specifics.
Split bolts on feeders
- Thread starter chorty55
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jaggedben
Senior Member
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- Northern California
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- Solar and Energy Storage Installer
A split bolt is a type of compression connector, is it not?
My local code is not different from the NEC on this.
.You need to provide substantiation to your claims, this sounds like something you've heard with no real facts
jaggedben
Senior Member
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- Northern California
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- Solar and Energy Storage Installer
Also the question was actually about electrical tape. Say it's a c-tap instead of a split bolt. What's wrong with electrical tape if it's well done?
Splice-and-tape methods used to be commonplace before Polaris style multitap connectors and IPCs came about. With those new methods the old splice-and-tape methods may be arguably obsolete, but aside from the recent revision to 230.46 I don't believe they have actually been outlawed. Also I've seen taped up connections that have been doing their job for over 50 years, so I don't know why it would not be a 'permanent solution'. (I also experienced a multi-tap connector fail in less than a year.)
Splice-and-tape methods used to be commonplace before Polaris style multitap connectors and IPCs came about. With those new methods the old splice-and-tape methods may be arguably obsolete, but aside from the recent revision to 230.46 I don't believe they have actually been outlawed. Also I've seen taped up connections that have been doing their job for over 50 years, so I don't know why it would not be a 'permanent solution'. (I also experienced a multi-tap connector fail in less than a year.)
You're right that split bolts provide compression, but they aren’t classified the same as UL-listed compression connectors like mechanical or crimp connectors. Split bolts require extra care for proper insulation, which can impact long-term reliability, especially in a panel. That’s why compression lugs or mechanical connectors are usually preferred. Always check NEC and manufacturer guidelines.
I get where you're coming from. Split bolts are allowed by the NEC, but they require precise installation and insulation to maintain a safe and durable connection, which can be challenging in confined spaces like panels. That’s why many electricians prefer compression lugs or mechanical connectors for reliability. It's more about best practices than strict prohibition. Always good to double-check with local inspectors.
An inspector has no real say in the matter. If it's a listed device it's alowed
jaggedben
Senior Member
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- Northern California
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- Solar and Energy Storage Installer
They're not? Can you provide any information to support that assertion? Are you talking about a classification that matters to the thread topic? I admittedly don't know all that much about UL standards but I do know that at least some split bolts are listed so there is a product standard that covers them. Same for electrical tape.
- Location
- Illinois
- Occupation
- retired electrician
One brand of split bolts says this about their product.
UL 486A is the standard wirenuts, compression lugs, and other types of pressure connectors are listed to.
- Occupation
- Licensed Electrician
So pig tail the neutral and land black and white on the GFI, splice the red and neutral and send it on downstream to another GFI. Why even mess with a 2pole breaker?
- Occupation
- Licensed Electrician
Those are Polaris or Burndy connectors. Yes they are UL but I've gone back to split bolts after going back to some places I've installed Polaris and have seen that they do not age well. The insulation decays and falls off.
Cheap? Heat? Or just.... Cheap? The lights switch in my old pickup truck is starting to soften and melt like play doe from the UV rays
ggunn
PE (Electrical), NABCEP certified
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- Consulting Electrical Engineer - Photovoltaic Systems
Are split bolts compliant with 230.46?
jaggedben
Senior Member
- Location
- Northern California
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- Solar and Energy Storage Installer
There likely aren't any that are so listed, but I don't know of any reason a company couldn't get them so listed. My impression is that in as much as the changes to 230.46 weren't based on any real world problems or failures of connectors, any connector that was otherwise listed could probably pass the tests.
electrofelon
Senior Member
- Location
- Cherry Valley NY, Seattle, WA
I Just feel obligated to jump in and add another voice calling this out as blatantly wrong. I would trust a split bolt more over a mechanical lug any and every day of the week. And sorry, but I question the experience and knowledge of anyone who uses the term "service feeder".
LarryFine
Master Electrician Electric Contractor Richmond VA
- Location
- Henrico County, VA
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- Electrical Contractor
I grew up using split bolts. Tighten, bang on the head with a hammer, tighten some more, repeat.
electrofelon
Senior Member
- Location
- Cherry Valley NY, Seattle, WA
Wasnt split bolts about all there was from the time of Christ until like the early 80"s?
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