Tracer-Lock Connector | Self-Stripping Direct Bury Wire Connector | 18–8 AWG

Tracer-Lock Connector is a direct-burial, self-stripping, locking connector engineered for corrosion-proof, watertight connections in underground tracer wire systems. The one-piece polycarbonate body and breakaway shear nut deliver fast, repeatable installs without stripping the wire—usable as an in-line, lateral (side-tap), or splice connection.

Key Features & Benefits

• Direct-Burial Rated: Waterproof, moisture resistant, and built for submersible use in underground conduit systems.
• Self-Stripping Install: No pre-strip required—the threaded screw and shear head bite and strip the conductor as you tighten.
• Positive Locking: Breakaway shear nut locks at proper torque, ensuring consistent mechanical and electrical performance.
• Corrosion Protection: Pre-filled anti-oxide compound improves conductivity and long-term reliability.
• Rugged Polycarbonate: High impact and high-temperature resistance for tough jobsite conditions.
• Wide Wire Range: Works with 18–8 AWG; mix and match sizes as needed (solid or stranded).
• Environmental Protection: Chemical-, corrosion-, and crush-resistant; waterproof and moisture-resistant.

Technical Specifications

• Conductor Types: Copper, HF-CCS, HS-CCS, HDD-CCS, SSAC-T304 (solid or stranded)
• Insulation Types: PVC/Nylon, PVC, LDPE, LLDPE, HDPE, XLPE, HMWPE (typical O.D. 0.100″–0.225″)
• Voltage Rating: Up to 1,000 V
• Wire Range: Min #18 / Max #8
• Temperature Rating: 105 °C (221 °F)
• Sealant Temperature Range: −40 °F to 400 °F
• Body/Hardware: One-piece polycarbonate; threaded screw with breakaway shear nut
• Environment: Outdoor; Underground; Utility Conduit System
• Standards & Code: Meets or exceeds applicable UL requirements; NEC aligned

Conductor Type Compatibility

Size	Copper	HF-CCS	HS-CCS	HDD-CCS	SSAC-T304
18–8 AWG	Solid or Stranded	Solid or Stranded	Solid or Stranded	Solid or Stranded	Solid or Stranded

Insulation Type Compatibility

PVC/Nylon	PVC	LDPE, LLDPE, HDPE, XLPE, HMWPE
O.D. 0.100″–0.225″	O.D. 0.100″–0.225″	O.D. 0.100″–0.225″

Connector – Physical & Electrical Properties

Measurements	Typical Values
Connector Size	2.56″ (H) × 1.88″ (W) × 1.77″ (D)
Maximum Voltage	1,000 volts
Wire Range	Min #18 / Max #8
Temperature Rating	105 °C (221 °F)
Silicone Sealant Temperature	−40 °F to 400 °F

Connector – Measurements & Packaging

Part #	Product Description	Packaging
TL-LUG-SS	Tracer-Lock Connector	50 Bags/Box

Industries & Applications

• Industries: Construction; Sewer Utility; Electric Utility; Oil & Gas Utility; Telecommunications Utility; Water Utility
• Primary Application: Locating (can serve as an access point for locators)

Installation – Quick Steps

• Open: Loosen the shear head nut to open the connector.
• Insert: Place unstripped wires—use Side A + Side B for a splice, or tap Side B onto the main for a side-tap; hand-tighten to hold.
• Lock: Tighten with a 1/2″ (13 mm) socket; at ~70 in-lb the head shears and locks the connection.

Watch: Tracer-Lock Connector – Installation Video

Tags: Tracer Wire Connector, Tracer-Lock, Direct Burial, Self-Stripping, Underground Locating, 18–8 AWG, Copper, CCS, Stainless, Polycarbonate, Trident Pro-Line