Featured Terms
Electrical Slang
What do a "bug" and a "cherry" have in common?
They are both electrical slang terms!
Curious about what these and other slang terms mean?
Scroll through our collection of slang terminology used in the electrical industry!
Whether you are an electrician, contractor, or just someone trying to understand what your local electrician is jabbering about, use the glossary to learn trade slang and electrical jargon.
Baffled by a term you just overheard?
Type it in the search box at the top and flip the switch!
7/16/2019
Connects two pieces of threaded rigid conduit when one piece can't be turned. Comes in aluminum, steel, malleable iron and zinc/die-cast construction in sizes from 1/2" to 5" If the same thing needs to be done for non-threaded pipe, you would use a threadless compression coupling.
7/16/2019
The cable cutter is a tool used to cut copper or aluminum electric wire from #1 through 1000MCM. They come in four varieties: palm grip, manual two-handled units, ratchet cutters and electric cutters.
7/16/2019
In the space of one 1" breaker, fits two breakers side-by-side (Twin) or over/under (Piggyback).
"Make this breaker a peanut."
7/16/2019
Used to cap-off pipe w/o a bushing or close a knock-out. Various sizes. Plastic.
7/16/2019
Conduit elbows are available for EMT, RIGID, PVC COATED GALVANIZED, FIBERGLASS and PVC. The standard elbows come in 90 degree and 45 degree but a wide range of bends and radiuses are available. In general, the customer ordering a PREFAB 45 is looking for a 45 degree elbow and you have to ask what kind of conduit it is being connected to.
7/16/2019
Typically though of as the goo used in compression and split-bolt connections where aluminum wire is used, the PENETROX product is an oxide-inhibiting grease designed to create an air-tight and moisture resistant joint. The goal is to prevent the oxidation or corrosion of the metal products used in the electrical connection. Depending upon the type of metals found in the joint, you would use a specific version of the product containing suspended particles designed for that metal. Type "A" contains Copper particles and is used for Aluminum to Copper or Aluminum to Conduit (Steel). Type "B" contains Zinc particles and is used where the metals are all aluminum. It has found favor in a number of industries, such as Ham Radio operators, where the grease acts as a lubricant for threaded connections and reduces the chance of them seizing down the road.
