bare earth wires..

[AndyPRK]

interesting. I note that back boxes used to be black. I guess sleeving was not required in these days

 

[RF Lighting]

There wasn't often a CPC in those days

 

[ColJack]

I'm pretty sure the main reason is to prevent any electrolytic action between the copper wire and galvanised back boxes. Thats why the earth should be completely sleeved.

and on that note, what about the actual connection of the earth flylead to the galv backbox?

 

[RF Lighting]

Isn't that usually into a brass terminal though?

 

[ColJack]

pfftt.. you buy the posh backboxes then..

the cheap ones just have 2 little tags punched into them.. one to stop the cable sliding out, and one for the screw..

 

[RF Lighting]

Oh. I usually go for generic unbranded boxes.

I know the ones you mean, but I don't think I've fitted one for years. Mine have always had the little brass earth terminal.

 

[Paul_C]

It's still the norm in the U.S. to leave earths bare, and where a fly-lead to the steel box is needed to secure a copper wire directly to it with a hex-head machine screw. Doesn't seem to cause any problems.