15-02-2021, 03:30 PM
I've never liked choc-blocs, especially not the most common type made from extremely soft plastic. Really don't like junction boxes either - glad to see the back of those. Copper creeps under pressure, so you need a spring connection. Crimp can be good if done properly with the right tool, but we've all seen badly done joints. But it's good enough for tens and hundreds of amps in cars, which is a pretty harsh environment for a connector.
I've seen spring connectors replacing choc-blocs in lighting fittings. Wonder when that'll happen to accessories like sockets and light switches, if it hasn't already?
I did work experience with a local firm of electrical contractors when I was 14, and it was a week of hammering out recesses for back boxes on one site, and doing second-fix on another. Hard work for a kid, even a moderately strong and fit one (those were the days!). I really struggled with how tight you had to get the screws done up on sockets, and didn't manage it most of the time (they were double-checked, of course). I still struggle - not with strength, but confidence because the whole process is so medieval. I'll usually go back a few days later to see if there's another quarter-turn to be had.
I've seen spring connectors replacing choc-blocs in lighting fittings. Wonder when that'll happen to accessories like sockets and light switches, if it hasn't already?
I did work experience with a local firm of electrical contractors when I was 14, and it was a week of hammering out recesses for back boxes on one site, and doing second-fix on another. Hard work for a kid, even a moderately strong and fit one (those were the days!). I really struggled with how tight you had to get the screws done up on sockets, and didn't manage it most of the time (they were double-checked, of course). I still struggle - not with strength, but confidence because the whole process is so medieval. I'll usually go back a few days later to see if there's another quarter-turn to be had.
