Staple sizes

[george t. everett]

Do you think it is time that the staple manufacturers changed the sizes of the staples to match the new sizes of NM cables? The staple sizes have'nt changed in the forty years that I have been in the trade. Some to small , some to large, none just right.

 

[hbiss]

Re: Staple sizes

I've never had a problem with insulated staples. Those are made for NM and are what you really should be using even if the code does not require it. The regular ones are made for AC, MC etc.

 

[charlie]

Re: Staple sizes

I don't think there is a problem with the size of the staples. I think the problem is the way they are normally installed. IMO they do not need to be tight against the cable, just enough to support it every 4 1/2 feet. It is where the staples are driven tight that the cable fails.

 

[ryan_618]

Re: Staple sizes

Originally posted by charlie:
It is where the staples are driven tight that the cable fails.

Amen.

One of things that has greatly pleased be about the changes in wiring trends since the introduction of AFCI's is that cables don't seem to be stapled as tightly anymore.

I have heard from a few electricians that they had to remove some drywall due to over-stapling and AFCI's not working.... Makes me wonder about the houses they wired before AFCI's

 

[bill addiss]

Re: Staple sizes

I've noticed thinner covering on the cables and occasional problems specifically with some 14/3 cables.

If this is the way Manufacturing is going insulated staples and RX connectors would be a good idea.

Bill

 

[Guest]

Re: Staple sizes

Originally posted by ryan_618:
<snip>cables don't seem to be stapled as tightly anymore.

The staples I used to buy in the good old days had a quote on the box that said, "Don't baby them-- drive them H-A-R-D!!!".

Those staples never bent and they had a wide crown. The staples these days are junky by comparison.

 

[iwire]

Re: Staple sizes

Here in MA we are required to use insulated staples on cable sizes smaller than three 8 awg, and I agree there is no need to put them in tight.

 

[earlydean]

Re: Staple sizes

If the NM cable is damaged during installation, then the cable must be removed and a new one installed. Driving the staples in too hard damages the sheathing. As an inspector I would look for this, and require replacements of sections showing such abuse. Snug, not tight is the key.

Earl

 

[tonyi]

Re: Staple sizes

Originally posted by charlie:
just enough to support it every 4 1/2 feet.

I go for about 2-3' unless its heavier wire, then I'll use straps rather than staples. This newer light sheath stuff concerns me when it has code minimum supports and gets the "droopsies".

Scary is 14-2 MC hanging like cloths line with the code minimum 6' supports.

 

[ryan_618]

Re: Staple sizes

Scary is 14-2 MC hanging like cloths line with the code minimum 6' supports.

Article 334.30 requires 4.5' maximum spacing

[ October 06, 2003, 01:20 PM: Message edited by: ryan_618 ]

 

[tonyi]

Re: Staple sizes

Originally posted by ryan_618:

Scary is 14-2 MC hanging like cloths line with the code minimum 6' supports.

Article 334.30 requires 4.5' maximum spacing

Indeed it is - but that relates to my 6' MC support comment in what way? I'm missing something, or this is a complete nonsequitor.

 

[ryan_618]

Re: Staple sizes

Um....oops