Overview
The Ideal 30-173 wire connector is a professional-grade twist-on connector from the iconic Wire-Nut® Model 73B series. First introduced in 1928, the IDEAL Wire-Nut® Wire Connector set new standards for innovation and quality, and as the first screw-on wire connector in America, it literally set the industry standard for years to come. This 1000-piece carton is made in USA and rated for 22–14 AWG copper wire at 600V. The orange color coding makes identification quick in any electrical installation.
Key Features
- Fixed, square-cut spring and tough, flame-retardant shell provide a secure connection that lasts
- Internal square wire spring with no pre-twisting required
- Positive grip design compatible with IDEAL® Twist-a-Nut® screwdrivers for additional ease and speed
- UL94V-2 flame-retardant thermoplastic shell that withstands environmental extremes and is reusable for easy circuit changes
- UL Listed and CSA Certified
- Color coded orange for visual wire range identification
Technical Specifications
- Wire Range: 22–14 AWG
- Voltage Rating: 600 Volt maximum
- Wire Combinations: 1 to 5 conductors; 18 to 1 AWG with 20 to 2 AWG minimum; 14 to 2 AWG maximum conductor combination size
- Shell Material: Flame-resistant polypropylene, UL 94V-2 rated at 105°C (221°F)
- Spring Type: Fixed/Square wire spring
- Dimensions: 7/16 in W × 55/64 in H
- Finish: Zinc plated
- Package Quantity: 1000 per carton
- Color: Orange
- Country of Origin: United States
Typical Applications
Wide wire range is suitable for a variety of applications and is an ideal choice when working with fine stranded wire. The Ideal 30-173 is commonly used in:
- Residential wiring and fixture installations
- Commercial electrical distribution and junction boxes
- Control circuit connections (Class 2 and low-voltage)
- Air handling spaces; Models 73B are rated for use in plenums, ducts, and other environmental air handling spaces without the need for a box
- Maintenance and retrofit work where reusability is valued
Compatibility & Replacements
Compatible With
- All solid and stranded copper wire 22–14 AWG
- 600V electrical systems and circuits
- Standard electrical junction boxes and enclosures
- Twist-a-Nut® manual screwdrivers for powered installation
Replaces / Drop-In Replacement For
- Earlier versions of the Ideal Model 73B (orange twist-on connector)
- Generic wire nuts rated for 22–14 AWG
- Note: Always verify wire gauge and voltage requirements with your system before substitution
Works With
- IDEAL Wire-Nut® Twist-a-Nut® installation tools
- Standard electrical tools (wire strippers, cutters, pliers)
- Class 2 and low-voltage control circuits
- Plenums and air-handling spaces (approved for use without additional enclosure)
