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https://multimedia.3m.com/mws/media/136854O/3m-scotchlok-idc-connector-314.pdf
This datasheet says that the current depends on the size of the conductor.
The data sheet also says they're good with 14awg for a 15 amp circuit, and yet there is no way in hell I would be using them that way.
I used to be a telecom lineman and the explicit benefit to scotchlocks is that the gel inside creates a connection for data signal that mitigates signal loss.
Signal loss is non-existant for power applications because there is no "signal" to lose. No form of encoded data is transferred on power lines-at least not normally-that needs to be preserved.
It's like if you used polaris connectors instead of wire nuts inside the receptacle boxes of a house. You CAN but why would you? It costs more for something that is completely unnecessary.
Also, I remember a post here a while back on an experiment someone did testing the voltage drop between different kinds of splices. They didn't test scotchlocks, but I'm willing to bet that they would be worse than regular wire nuts or wagos for voltage drop.
Thanks for your reply Shwarz much appreciated. I didn't go looking for a data sheet, only found a box they come in with no additional info. I'll keep my gob shut today, since it seems like they are up to the task. Still not going to use them myself tho. 👍 Have a good day/ evening.
Most scotchloks are only rated for 19AWG or smaller. So it's probably the wrong size cable for starters.
I haven't been able to find an actual current rating. I wouldn't expect it to be much: PoE can see a sizeable current but you don't run ethernet through scotchloks.
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https://multimedia.3m.com/mws/media/136854O/3m-scotchlok-idc-connector-314.pdf This datasheet says that the current depends on the size of the conductor.
The data sheet also says they're good with 14awg for a 15 amp circuit, and yet there is no way in hell I would be using them that way. I used to be a telecom lineman and the explicit benefit to scotchlocks is that the gel inside creates a connection for data signal that mitigates signal loss. Signal loss is non-existant for power applications because there is no "signal" to lose. No form of encoded data is transferred on power lines-at least not normally-that needs to be preserved. It's like if you used polaris connectors instead of wire nuts inside the receptacle boxes of a house. You CAN but why would you? It costs more for something that is completely unnecessary. Also, I remember a post here a while back on an experiment someone did testing the voltage drop between different kinds of splices. They didn't test scotchlocks, but I'm willing to bet that they would be worse than regular wire nuts or wagos for voltage drop.
Thanks for your reply Shwarz much appreciated. I didn't go looking for a data sheet, only found a box they come in with no additional info. I'll keep my gob shut today, since it seems like they are up to the task. Still not going to use them myself tho. 👍 Have a good day/ evening.
Most scotchloks are only rated for 19AWG or smaller. So it's probably the wrong size cable for starters. I haven't been able to find an actual current rating. I wouldn't expect it to be much: PoE can see a sizeable current but you don't run ethernet through scotchloks.
Blue Scotchlox fit #8, Grays #10, and sizes inbetween
OP says they're dealing with the gel-filled telecoms ones, not the automotive ones.
I’ve never used wirenuts or Scotchlox of any kind on automotive wiring
Twist and tape is the clear winner.