Evaluation of receptacle connections and contacts

Abstract

Wire connections and plug contacts at receptacles account for the majority of electrical power contacts in most residential structures. Average current and duty cycle for these wiring devices have been increasing over the past decades as more appliances, portable heating equipment, and electronics are added to typical user loading. Receptacle contact and connection failures contribute significantly to fire losses in the United States. This paper provides comparative data on long-term test performance of copper-wired screw and push-in wiring terminals and on insertion plug contacts of receptacles presently on the market.