What is usually the cause of terminal connections burning off the end of an element?

The scenario of terminal connections burning off the end of an element is most commonly attributed to loose or burned wire connections. When wire connections are not secure, it can lead to an increase in resistance at the connection point. This resistance can generate excessive heat when current flows through it. Over time, this heat can progressively damage the terminal connections, leading them to deteriorate or completely burn off.

Properly secured and well-maintained connections are essential to ensure efficiency and safe operation in electrical systems. Other factors like the age of the element, high voltage operation, or weak solder joints can contribute to operational issues, but loose connections are the primary cause of heat build-up and subsequent failure of terminal connections.