On Thu, Apr 10, 2025 at 02:52 PM, Bruce Akhurst wrote:
Hope you’ve got your fault protection sorted.?
Prospective short circuit will be 10kA and an auto fuse ain’t going to stop that arcing ..
It can be as simple as a fusible link.? Go down 4 wire size numbers, so for example #16AWG link in #12AWG conductor, a foot long, connected in series with the main 12AWG line with compression crimp splices NOT solder.?
The link including splices and at least an inch beyond (I cover about 2-3 inches), is covered with fire sleeve.?
I use an 18 inch long sleeve for a 12 inch link; the idea is to contain and cool the hot gases if the link fuses so leave room.? Close each end of the sleeve with a zip tie or flat lacing tape.? Extra style points for two ties 1/2 inch apart.
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More folks should be aware of the advantages of lacing tape over zip ties in applications like this, especially where someone has cut the zip tie surplus with a diagonal cutter, leaving two flesh-shredding hooks exposed.? A tool like this will properly tension and cut the tie with a blunt end, save time and avoid much bloodshed: ?
Lacing tape:
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Of course an appropriate fuse is generally needed to protect against nuisance overloads as well; they are easier to replace than a link.
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Let's be safe out there.
73, Don N2VGU
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Donald S Brant Jr