Terminals Basics

What is a Terminal?

Terminals are crucial components to any cable assembly process. By definition, a terminal is part of a class of electrical connectors used for the transfer of electrical currents from a grounding source or power. The terminal of a wire also indicates the point at which the conductor, from a component, device, or network, comes to an end. The multitude of cable applications introduces a wide selection of terminal variations and types. Each project consists of specified requirements that lead to the use of some terminals over others. PGF supplies customers will all kinds of terminals, effectively integrating the necessary parts for a successful cable assembly!

Variations

There are two main variations amongst cable terminals: insulated and non-insulated. Depending on the designated project, either one of the two variations is preferred for high quality product performance. Insulated provide an additional protective cover to avoid water and other moisture from getting to the wire. The insulation can be found in nylon, heat shrink, or vinyl material to act as a non-conductor wire. On the other hand, non-insulated are typically used in the instances in which the extra wire protection is not necessary. Additionally, the non-insulated wires are cheaper to manufacture, thus proving to be more economically valuable.

Terminal Types

Ring 

a round-ended terminal that easily allows a screw or stud to be attached. Ring Terminals are either crimped or soldered to the wire. Available in insulated or non-insulated.

Common Applications: Ring terminals are typically utilized within the automotive industry. The shape is ideal for connecting various contactors or mechanical relays to car engines and circuits.

Spade (Fork)

an open-ended spade terminal that is convenient to use allowing easy attachment or removal from the screw. Available in insulated or non-insulated.

Common Applications: Wire harness assembly projects commonly consist of tightly spaced installation spaces, thus mostly utilizing spade terminals. The spade provides reliable and quick electrical connections that are solderless.

Hook

a terminal convenient to use with an open end. Produced insulated or non-insulated, hook structures offer a simplistic yet durable connection for a variety of projects.

Common Applications: The simplistic hook design allows for easy-to use terminals that are durable and efficient. Thus, instances in need of electrical wire connectors are the most common hook terminal applications.

Quick-Disconnect 

A quick-disconnect terminal provides convenient and reliable use offering an easy connect and disconnect for two wires. Produced insulated or non-insulated.

Common Applications: Quick-disconnect terminals can be found in a multitude of auto, industrial, and consumer products. As one of the fastest ways to connect and disconnect two wires, such terminals are easily reusable and highly efficient.

Bullet

Bullet terminals connect with the male and open-ended round female connectors creating a high-quality connection. The connection with bullet terminals helps prevent corrosion and other potentially harmful materials from entering a wire harness.

Common Applications: The automotive industry utilizes bullet terminals for quick and simple wiring connections. The bullet design provides durable connections that can be easily assembled and disassembled during manufacturing.

Butt

a Butt Terminal connects or terminates single or multiple wires. They help prevent abrasion and cutting. This extra protection helps keep out moisture, corrosion, and other negative elements. Butt Terminals serve as a simple solution to extend wires due to the ability to mate and connect wires.

Common Applications: Amongst various industries, butt terminals safely terminate any given wire. Additionally, another common use is to connect one wire to another.

Flag

 terminals that offer a convenient and secure connection. Flag terminals work well in tight spaces as well as when a quick-disconnect is too large. Provides a quick and easy connection and disconnect. Also available in insulated and non-insulated.

Common Applications: Flag terminals reliability promote their use for applications that require frequent connections.

PGF Terminal Services

Through the variety of industries and applications, PGF Technology Group, Inc. adheres to all customer project specifications and requirement. The company’s devotion to supreme quality, on-time delivery, and competitive industry pricing allows customers to trust PGF with all terminal needs. The wide range of manufacturing diversity within the company guarantees proper product assembly from highest expertise. Learn more about PGF capabilities and request a quote today!