Electrician's Licensing Practice Exam

What method should be used when connecting two wires together in a permanent manner?

1. Twist-on wire connectors

2. Terminal lugs

3. Exothermic Welding

4. Using electrical tape

The correct answer is: Exothermic Welding

Using exothermic welding is a highly effective method for permanently connecting two wires together. This process involves creating a chemical reaction between metal powders that generates enough heat to melt the metals being joined. It results in a strong, durable, and corrosion-resistant connection, making it suitable for applications that require reliable and long-lasting electrical connections, such as in underground or outdoor settings. Exothermic welding provides a seamless bond between conductors, ensuring excellent electrical conductivity and minimizing the potential for future failure. This method is often preferred in high-current applications, grounding connections, and where environmental factors could adversely affect other types of connections. Other choices, such as twist-on wire connectors and terminal lugs, offer secure yet less permanent options. Twist-on connectors allow for easy disconnection and reconnection, making them suitable for temporary or serviceable connections, while terminal lugs require screws or bolts to affix wires, which can be loosened. Electrical tape, though used for insulation or bundling wires, does not provide a physically secure or reliable permanent connection on its own.