Wire connectors are a key part of any contractor or electrician’s kit, fulfilling the key function of joining stripped wires together in the field. The iconic style of wire connector is the twist-on, but that is just one type of connector. We built TERMINATOR, our premium line of dual-color wire connectors, to expand on the performance of a traditional twist-on.
How do you select the best connector for the job? Read on to find out!
The main types of wire connectors are:
- Twist-on connectors
- Crimp connectors
- Push-in connectors
- Burial or waterproof connectors
And there are even more styles, like the Pre-Insulated Connectors pioneered by Polaris.
TWIST ON
Twist-on connectors probably come to mind when you envision the category. NSI does produce traditional twist-on connectors, from our Easy-Twist® line, in addition to our premium TERMINATOR connectors which we’ll discuss below.
The twist-on wire connectors are a reliable choice because they can be quickly installed by hand. The inside of each twist-on connector features a metal spring or coil. When a user inserts bare wires into the connector and twists, a connection is formed between the wires and the metal coil, creating a circuit.
Different twist-on wire connectors have different performance features. For example, many have ridges or pronounced “wings” molded into their design for easier twisting. They also come in a wide range of colors corresponding to the different size ranges of wires that they fit.
TERMINATOR Dual-Color Wire Connectors are fundamentally similar to twist-on connectors but have been supercharged to outperform the classic style. Their dual-color design fits a wider range of wires, with a quick-bite square-wire spring and an ergonomic wing design that allows for the use of torquing tools.
TERMINATOR does the job of two connectors in one product by fitting a wider range of wires, which lets the user carry less product in their truck and the distributor keep less in inventory. Beyond that, they have a longer skirt that protects against over-strips. Using TERMINATOR simplifies the process of joining wires and guarantees a high-quality connection.
CRIMP
The crimp connector isn’t quite as versatile as a twist-on. These metal sleeves are typically used to connect uninsulated ground conductors and require a specialized crimping tool to install. They form a connection by literally crumpling onto the wire, forming a super secure grip, but are not reusable or easily removable.
NSI carries crimp connectors, including ones protected by a nylon insulating shell and insulated crimp connectors ideal for high-vibration applications.
PUSH-IN CONNECTORS
Push-in wire connectors offer unique advantages. Their design saves hand fatigue and frequently uses a clear shell, which makes it easy to see poor connections. Additionally, their small size fits into even tight spaces in cable trays or electrical boxes.
They are ideal for conductors that have been cut too short and require an extension, or for installation in overhead boxes since they can be installed with less fatigue. They are, however, usually more expensive than twist-on connectors. NSI carries a full line of push-in wire connectors.
BURIAL, WATERPROOF AND SPECIALTY CONNECTORS
The last category of connectors we’ll cover are specialty connectors—for example, wire connectors designed for burial or waterproof applications. These are usually filled with silicone sealant and have a specialized port to seal around the inserted wires. For applications including underground wiring, outdoor networks or semi-wet environments like sprinkler systems, these are the only choice.
NSI carries a wide range of specialty connectors designed for unique applications.
Make the Connection
Now that you know the different types of wire connectors and their advantages, you can see why TERMINATOR is such a great choice. The increased size range of a dual-color connector simplifies your toolkit, plus the ergonomic design and long skirt help TERMINATOR connectors install easily.
For your next job, choose wire connectors you can trust. Choose TERMINATOR.