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UK diy (uk.d-i-y) For the discussion of all topics related to diy (do-it-yourself) in the UK. All levels of experience and proficency are welcome to join in to ask questions or offer solutions. |
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Soldering T&E
I'm really, really sorry if I come across as labouring this point, but I
need some definitive advice on the best way of connecting two pieces of ring-main T&E together. Regular readers will know that I started off doing this with terminal blocks but because these would have to be hidden behind plasterboard, either soldering or crimping was the only way forward. I chose soldering. I understand there are a couple of gotchs when doing this: - each join must be soldered ASAP because the PCV coating on the T&E will start to melt; this can be a problem if there is a bend in the wire near the soldering because the copper can "push through" the softened PVC so it touches its neighbour - bind the cables together to form a strong mechanical joint before soldering; keep the solder light to merely enforce the joint. With that in mind, this is what I did: - twisted the cables together using pliers - tinned the soldering iron - heated the joint and flowed solder onto it I used a gas-powered soldering iron because, obviously, the power was turned off. The joints I made seemed strong but didn't occur in just a few seconds - in some cases I had to heat the joint maybe 30 seconds or more before it became hot enough for the solder to melt onto it. I didn't notice the PVC becoming damaged, either expanding or melting. It seemed to me to be as good as before. I'm just a little worried that it might have melted and become compromised above/below the joint, where I can't see. On the other hand, I've tested the sockets with devices that draw large currents - if anything had gone wrong, I'd know about it, wouldn't I? Secondly, I wrapped the joints in electrical tape because I just couldn't source heat shrink in time. Each joint was wrapped 3 or 4 times, and then the whole thing was wrapped in more tape. I *think* I've done this well enough. One final thing I might do is put the joints inside fireproof boxes so that in the unlikely event of something going wrong, they won't set the house on fire. |
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