A fork terminal, also known as a crimp spade terminal or split ring, is a short metal tube with a flat forked attachment. The tube, or barrel end, is a hollow cylinder into which a stranded wire is inserted and crimped to create a secure, solderless electrical connection.
Conversely, the contact or connection end is a flat fork with a central hole, designed to connect securely to a stud or bolt. These forked terminal connectors can be either insulated or non-insulated, offering versatile connectivity options.
At RS Australia, you’ll find a wide range of forked spade terminals from various manufacturers to meet diverse electrical wiring needs.
The primary use of a fork terminal is to establish secure electrical connections, particularly to screws and studs. The forked spade offers a distinct advantage over other terminal types, especially in applications demanding straightforward attachment, removal, and maintenance. Here’s what they do:
Fork terminals are available in a broad assortment of ring sizes and wire gauges, catering to diverse electrical applications. The critical factor for selection is ensuring that the CSA (cross sectional area) or AWG (American wire gauge) of the stranded wire matches the terminal's amperage rating.
Similarly, the size of the fork itself must correspond to the bolt or stud size, typically measured metrically.
An insulated fork terminal features a protective sleeve over the crimp barrel, preventing accidental short circuits and enhancing safety. This makes an insulated fork ideal for applications where protection against electrical contact or environmental factors is crucial, such as in control panels or automotive wiring.
These are specific types of insulated terminals that come in various colours to denote compatible wire sizes and overall compatibility. This colour-coding system aids in quick and easy identification, facilitating organised and efficient wiring.
Red fork terminals are designed to accommodate conductors ranging from 0.25 to 1.5mm² or 22 to 16 AWG. They require a wire crimper of similar size or colour coding cavity.
These are commonly used for lighter-duty applications, ensuring a secure and reliable connection in various low-power electrical circuits.
Blue fork terminals are engineered to fit conductors of sizes 1.5 to 2.5mm² or 16 to 14 AWG. Correspondingly, the crimping jaw should have a cavity with a similar gauge marking to establish a tight and secure wire connection.
These terminals offer a reliable connection for medium-duty electrical applications, providing enhanced current carrying capacity.
Yellow fork terminals are specified for larger conductors, typically from 4 to 6mm² or 12 to 10 AWG. These are generally used for heavier-duty electrical connections, providing robust and secure termination in higher-current applications.
Non-insulated fork terminals are larger in size and lack the protective sleeve found on their insulated counterparts. They are designed to connect larger stranded wires to bigger studs and bolts, making them suitable for heavy-duty applications where maximum conductivity is paramount. Their installation often requires more specialised tooling for proper crimping.
To ensure you select the forked terminal that precisely fits your project requirements, consider the following factors:
When procuring fork terminals, it is important to avoid several common pitfalls that could compromise the integrity and safety of your electrical connections:
Fork terminals are versatile components with widespread industrial applications across Australia, providing reliable electrical connections in diverse settings:
RS Australia stands as a trusted supplier and distributor of high-quality fork terminals in Australia. We source our extensive range from reputable manufacturers like TE Connectivity, JST, Hirschmann Test & Measurement, and MECATRACTION, assuring product quality and compliance.
Beyond our wide selection of forked terminal connectors, we also offer a comprehensive array of other electronic components and supplies, such as bullet connectors and Ethernet accessories, making us your one-stop shop for all your project needs.
Explore our user-friendly online platform to find the products you need and get them shipped to your doorstep with our prompt delivery services. Moreover, with flexible options designed to meet your scheduling requirements, we ensure that you receive your supplies when you need them. Learn more about our delivery fees and timeslots at our delivery information page.