An Underwriters Knot is used to provide strain relief for electrical wiring, often in lamps or other devices. Preferred by electricians and manufacturers as a reliable knot that protects wires, it helps to prevent damage or short circuits by keeping the wire from being pulled out of its connections. Any stress on a wire is taken by the underwriters knot and not the electrical connections.
Underwriters Knot: Quick Tying Guide
To tie an Underwriters Knot, start by holding the two ends of the wire side by side and twisting them 3 times around one another.
Create loops on each wire by bending the wire back on itself. Then push the end of each wire through the loop created by the opposite wire.
Pull the ends tight to form the knot. This creates a secure hold that resists being pulled loose.
Why Use an Underwriters Knot?
The Underwriters Knot is popular in electrical work because it provides an extra layer of safety. It makes sure the wires stay in place.
That way, wires don’t get pulled out of devices, and the internal connections are protected. With the knot being easy to tie, electricians use the underwriters knot when wiring lamps and other electrical equipment.
This knot also keeps the cord in place, reducing the risk of frayed wires or dangerous short circuits.
Knots Similar to the Underwriters Knot
Overhand Knot – A simple and useful knot that stops a rope or cord from slipping through a hole.
Figure Eight Knot – A secure knot often used in climbing that is a stronger version of the overhand knot.
Surgeon’s Knot – A knot used in both medicine and fishing that adds extra security.
Square Knot – A basic knot that ties two ropes or lines together but is not secure under heavy loads.
Step 1:
Put two ends of the wire side by side and twist them 3 times around one another.
Step 2:
Bring the other wire down, creating another loop.
Step 3:
Push the ends of the wires through the opposite loop.
Step 4:
Pull both ends of the wire tight to make a secure knot and twist each one around the terminals.
Step 5:
Check to make sure the knot is secure and that the wires are protected from being pulled out.
Step 6:
The Underwriters Knot is complete.
