Electrical device manufacturers recommended torque settings that range from 12 to 90 inch pounds depending on the device type, when terminating conductors. Device torque settings can vary dramatically between manufacturers for the same device. As an example, for a CS8369 device one manufacturer recommends 25 to 30 pounds, while another recommends 45 to4a72c5f9-2645-4487-b250-483f0ee75d88[1] 54 pounds. That's a very broad range in inch pounds. It isn't enough to just twist a screw driver until you can't turn it anymore.

Why is it important to use manufacturers torque settings when terminating a conductor to a receptacle device? An under torqued device runs the risk of working loose resulting in a failed device at start up or during use. Over torquing can damage the device leading to failure while in service.

At PDU Cables each assembly work station has a device torque setting reference guide, along with a set of calibrated power drivers that apply the exact amount of pressure to each terminal connection in accordance with the manufacturers' specifications. That way each conductor is terminated with the optimal amount of pressure to ensure that each wire is firmly secured by the terminal screw and wire restraint.

You might be wondering, what difference does a couple pounds make? The best answer to that question is that you don't want to find out. The consequences of improper torque pressure could range from a short to device failure, an outage or possibly a fire.

Knowing the device torque settings is important but just as important is being able to apply the proper torque each and every time a conductor is terminated to a receptacle.

Does your power whip manufacturer have the tools and understanding to apply proper torque when terminating conductors to a electrical device?