Spade terminals
Spade terminals are electrical connectors with a fork-shaped opening that can be placed under a screw head. They are used to safely and reliably connect cables to screw terminals, such as in switch cabinets, distribution panels, and other electrical components. We offer a wide range of spade terminals in various sizes and designs.
Applications of spade terminals
Spade terminals are widely used in electrical engineering, industrial automation, automotive, and the maritime sector. They are ideal for situations where cables need to be connected quickly and reliably to screw terminals. The fork-shaped opening allows the lug to slide under the screw head, creating a firm and secure connection.
Types of spade terminals
All spade terminals in our range are insulated. This means that in addition to the copper connector, the terminal also features a partially insulating PVC sleeve. The PVC sleeve provides added safety by preventing short circuits and electric shocks, ensuring insulation between conductive parts. It also protects the fine wires of the cable from damage.
Spade terminal color coding
The insulation mentioned above comes in one of three colors: red, yellow, or blue. The color corresponds to the diameter of the cable core.
- Red is used for cable cores of 0.5 ~ 1.5 mm²
- Blue for 1.5 ~ 2.5 mm²
- Yellow for 4.0 ~ 6.0 mm²
The AWG (American Wire Gauge) also varies by color:
- Red: AWG 22 ~ 16
- Blue: AWG 16 ~ 14
- Yellow: AWG 12 ~ 10
Properties of spade terminals
Spade terminals are available in various sizes. The overall length ranges from 20.6 to 31.2 millimeters. The slot width—the space between the two ends of the spade—varies from 3.2 to 6.5 millimeters.
These terminals can withstand temperatures of up to 75 °C and are rated for a maximum voltage of 600 volts.
Applications of spade terminals
Vorkkabelschoenen worden gebruikt voor het maken van een elektrische verbinding tussen een kabeluiteinde enerzijds, en een elektrische component anderzijds. Dit kan bijvoorbeeld een aansluitklem zijn. Je gebruikt een vorkkabelschoen door deze op de blootgelegde draden van een gestripte kabel de bevestigen, door de draden in de kabelschoen te voeren en deze met een krimptang vast te zetten. Plaats vervolgens de vorkkabelschoen op een schroefklem, en draai deze vast.
Installation and use
Installing spade terminals requires stripping the cable to expose the conductor. The cable is then placed into the lug, and the connection is made by crimping or screwing, depending on the lug type. When crimping, use an appropriate crimping tool to firmly attach the lug to the conductor. It is important to choose the correct lug size that matches the cable diameter and application.
Questions about our spade terminals?
Feel free to contact one of our advisors. They’ll be happy to help you.


