Extending 2.5mm2 by 2 feet

[HawkEye244]

Hi all,

Knowing the general consensus regarding terminal blocks/connector strips on here I'll choose my words carefully.

I want to extend a 3 core 2.5mm2 by about two feet. I have 3A connector blocks at hand. Yes, there is the wago and ideal range of connectors to consider but this is DIY and I'm not going to that expense.

It just so happen that the connection itself will be accessible via an access panel. This is the only reason I'm considering extending a cable in this circumstance.

My question is : when making the connection what is the stronger/better way to use the terminal block/connector ? Two of the same core terminating in the same side or one on each side ?

Does the terminal block/connector have to be wrapped in insulation tape or can this be avoided ?

Many thanks for any information.

 

[EFLImpudence]

My question is : when making the connection what is the stronger/better way to use the terminal block/connector ? Two of the same core terminating in the same side or one on each side ?

I would say the best way is to have both wires going the full length of the connector so that both wires are held by both screws.
One each end or both at the same end matters not.

Does the terminal block/connector have to be wrapped in insulation tape or can this be avoided ?

No, pointless and the ordinary stuff turns to mush after a while..

 

[ETAF]

I have 3A connector blocks at hand.

what are you connecting to the 2.5 cable - 3A is very low

 

[CBW]

Would it be better to use a back box or pattress box with a blanking plate?

 

[333rocky333]

Accessible or not, it still should be in an enclosure, with the cable either clipped or suitable strain relief provided.

 

[Harry Bloomfield]

My question is : when making the connection what is the stronger/better way to use the terminal block/connector ? Two of the same core terminating in the same side or one on each side ?

Ignoring the rest of your post....

The better way is both cores bared, full length into the connector, so both terminal screws tighten on to both cores. That is either both in one side, or one from either end, so the two lay fully side by side. No current is then taken by the connector, or it's screws.

 

[oldbutnotdead]

I'm hoping the 3A is a typo and you really mean 30A.
Easiest (with solid cores) is 1 from each side, enough core exposed so both screws bite on both cores.
Wago etc are very DIY but for your application (as long as the access panel is secured such that a tool is required to remove it) terminal block is fine. If you used Wago types and terminate properly there are no live parts exposed so the access panel security is less of an issue.

 

[HawkEye244]

Apologies I did mean to say 30 A
Much appreciated to you all for helping me with this

 

[Harry Bloomfield]

Apologies I did mean to say 30 A
Much appreciated to you all for helping me with this

I use the smallest connector block, into which the wires will actually fit, side by side. The current rating is just a guide to what you can squeeze into them, rather than a hard rule. Idea is, not to have the current flow through the connector block at all, if possible.