Spade terminal crimp connectors, also known as fork terminals, are a type of electrical connector used to connect a wire to a screw or stud terminal.
They are characterized by:
- Shape: A U-shaped or forked end (the spade) that slips around a screw or stud, which is then secured by tightening a nut or the screw head.
- Connection Method: They are attached to the end of a wire by crimping (mechanical deformation), providing a secure, solderless connection.
- Insulation: They often come with a plastic or nylon insulation sleeve (usually color-coded based on the wire gauge) covering the barrel where the wire is inserted, though uninsulated versions also exist.
- Advantage: The spade shape allows the connector to be installed or removed from a terminal without fully unscrewing the nut or screw, making installation and maintenance quicker than with ring terminals.
