What is the term used when stranded wire begins to spread apart during the installation process?

The term that is used when stranded wire begins to spread apart during the installation process is "splay." This phenomenon occurs when the individual strands of the wire start to fan out, which can happen due to various factors such as improper handling or installation techniques. Splaying can impact the electrical integrity and performance of the wire connection, making it essential to handle stranded wire with care to maintain its structure and functionality.

In contrast, separation generally refers to a broader concept of parts moving apart but does not specifically describe the behavior of strands. Fraying refers to the unraveling of the strands at the ends of the wire, which is more about wear and tear rather than the spreading of the strands during installation. Splicing is the process of joining two wires together, which is not related to the issue of strand separation during installation. Understanding the term "splay" provides insight into maintaining good practices and ensuring effective wire connections in installations.