Electrical T connector?

[ZmOz]

I'm working on a prototype of an invention of mine. I need to join three 3 conductor cables in a "T" shape. Imagine 3 extension cords with their ends cut off wired together in a "T". There needs to be some kind of weatherproof cover and strain releif over this connection.<br /><br />Any suggestions on some sort of connector I can use? Maybe a small plastic box? Eventually it will be made from molded plastic, but not before a large investment in tooling.

 

[ZodFutMk2]

Re: Electrical T connector?

PVC Electrical conduit "T" with inspection cover and fill tubes with silicone sealant?

 

[KRS]

Re: Electrical T connector?

Check HAM radio baluns and antenna connectors....

 

[Wimperdink]

Re: Electrical T connector?

radioshack sells project boxes pretty cheap... <br /><br />talk to mark42 about moulding your own parts and check out his project page.. you can make your own t shape out of epoxy... make it perfect and you'll have the shape to take to the manufacturer when its time.

 

[DaleT]

Re: Electrical T connector?

You could probably find an inexpensive junction box, I know of a few local to me retailers so I would be fairly certain you could find them in your area. Lowes, Home Depot, or any hardware store will probably carry them. From my experience they are available in many sizes and materials. Most of the boxes I've used are waterproof however for the strain relief you need to by fittings for the boxes. Good luck with the project.

 

[Xcusme]

Re: Electrical T connector?

What size conductors are you using? Are the conductors in a parallel configuration? Does it HAVE to be a tee?? What's the voltage ?? A/C-D/C?

 

[ZmOz]

Re: Electrical T connector?

They'll be 12 gauge 120VAC cables. Molding my own sounds like a good idea...

 

[Xcusme]

Re: Electrical T connector?

Something like this?? Link

 

[sangerwaker]

Re: Electrical T connector?

Why not use a PVC junction box, say a 4x4x2 size, drill 7/8 holes where needed, and use appropriate sized water proof strain reliefs?<br /><br />

<br /><br />

<br /><br />Just make sure you use a sealing ring between the strain relief and the PVC box so no moisture gets in. They look like this:<br /><br />

 

[ZmOz]

Re: Electrical T connector?

I'm trying to use something much smaller than a normal junction box. I think a normal sized box would look a little too "homemade".

 

[DaleT]

Re: Electrical T connector?

You might be able to find something by searching the following site.<br /> Allied <br /> Federal Signal <br /><br />Both have a pretty good collection of connectors and boxes.

 

[ZmOz]

Re: Electrical T connector?

After wondering around at various hardware and electrical stores, I think I'm just going to use heat shrink tubing. Is there an "industrial strength" kind of tubing that's maybe a little thicker than what you find at Home Depot?

 

[Wimperdink]

Re: Electrical T connector?

hey I know this is over engineered but maybe this will work... <br /><br />stuff the works into a length of pvc pipe... seal one end around the wire centering it... then pour epoxy or poly resin into it, let it harden.. then cut the pvc away and sand to a desired shape. bet you could get a good looking solid connection that way. <br /><br />just be sure to solder your wire connections first so no chance of seperation inside.

 

[heyttown]

Re: Electrical T connector?

Zmoz, they do make a heavy duty heat shrink kit....You may have to special order,or try a electrical supply house. We called it RayChem (sp?) but this was some heavy duty stuff,so I know they make all different sizes.<br /><br />May be a little tough to find,but worth it over that flimsy cheap looking stuff at home depot.

 

[CalicoKid]

Re: Electrical T connector?

There is an underground splice kit for cables available through electrical supply houses. It includes a set-screw junction block and heavy adhesive lined heat shrink tubing. Not sure if there is a three-way...