Umair Gaines
There are several ways to tie two electrical cords together, including crimp connectors, Scotchlok connectors, Wago connectors, and splicing. Crimp connectors come in various colour-coded sizes, with some featuring a heat shrink sleeve that seals and protects the wires. Scotchlok connectors are commonly used in auto electrics and contain a piece of metal that cuts through insulation and connects wires. Wago connectors, a type of spring connector, are designed for joining two or more wires. Splicing involves stripping and twisting wires together, followed by soldering and heat-shrink tubing for insulation and protection.
Characteristics and Values Table for Tying Two Electrical Cords Together
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Connection Type | In-line screw terminal connection box, crimp connectors, Scotchlok connectors, Wago connectors, soldering |
| Materials | Electrical cords, heat-shrink tubing, soldering iron, electrical tape, crimp connectors, Scotchlok connectors, Wago connectors |
| Preparation | Cut and place cords on a flat surface, strip wires, twist wires together |
| Connection Process | Join wires by crossing and twisting, solder wires, apply heat-shrink tubing, seal with hair dryer or soldering iron, wrap with electrical tape |
| Safety | Ensure good connection by tugging on the joint, maintain sufficient insulation between wires |
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What You'll Learn
Using crimp connectors
Crimp connectors are a common method for connecting electrical wires. They are often used in auto electrics, but can also be used for domestic electrical appliances if the correct size is chosen.
Firstly, you should determine the wire gauge and choose a connector that is the right size. The wires should fit comfortably inside the connector, and the sum of their diameters should not exceed that of the connector. Insulated connectors are often colour-coded according to wire gauge, with red for 16 to 22 gauge wires, blue for 14 to 16 gauge wires, and yellow for 10 to 12 gauge wires. Non-insulated connectors usually have the wire gauge marked on the connector itself.
Once you have chosen the correct connector, strip about a quarter of an inch of insulation from the end of the wire using a stripping tool. You can then twist the exposed wire to make it denser and ensure a more positive connection. Next, insert the wire into the connector until the insulation touches the barrel. Place the barrel of the connector into the crimper slot and squeeze firmly.
After crimping, you should give the wire a firm tug to make sure it is securely connected. You can then seal the terminal with electrical tape or heat-shrink tubing. Some connectors come with heat-shrink insulation, but if not, you can place heat-shrink tubing over the connector and use a heat gun to seal it.
Some people also choose to solder the wires together before crimping for added security. However, this is not necessary, and crimping alone can create a strong connection.
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Soldering wires together
Prepare the Wires
Firstly, strip about 1 inch (2.5 cm) of insulation from the end of each wire. You can use a wire stripper, which can be purchased at a hardware store, or a utility knife. Once stripped, twist the exposed wires together, forming an X-shape. Bend one wire down and tightly twist it around the other, creating a firm connection. Repeat with the other wire, ensuring the splice looks even on both sides.
Soldering Process
Put on a pair of safety glasses to protect your eyes. Turn on your soldering iron and allow it to heat up completely. It is recommended to use a small iron tip for better control. Melt some solder onto the tip of the iron to prevent oxidation and give it a shiny appearance.
Now, apply the solder directly to the wires. If you are using rosin core solder, you can apply it directly. With other types of solder, you may need to add some flux to the wires first, which helps the solder bond. Re-apply the soldering iron, and the solder from each wire will melt and combine, forming a solid joint.
Finishing Up
Consider using heat-shrink tubing to cover the exposed wires and create a waterproof seal. Ensure you slide the tubing onto the wire before soldering, and use a lighter or heat gun to shrink it.
Soldering is an excellent way to connect wires, but remember that its primary function is to conduct electricity, not to act as glue. If soldering is not an option, you can use a conductive adhesive or wire glue, but it may not hold the wires together as effectively.
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Wago connectors
The WAGO 221 Series is a popular choice for electricians as it allows for fast and tool-free connections. It can accommodate solid, stranded, and fine-stranded wires, making it versatile for different applications. The connectors are designed to be compact and ergonomic, making them ideal for tight spaces. They also feature recessed handles for a secure grip and optional adapters for modular mounting.
WAGO's PUSH WIRE connectors are another innovative solution for junction boxes. These connectors can be used without any tools and provide a secure connection for solid conductors. They are reusable and designed for repeated use, as long as the contact spring remains undamaged. To remove a conductor without damaging the contact spring, simply hold it firmly and alternate twisting left and right while pulling on the connector.
WAGO also offers a range of lighting connectors, such as the 224 Series, which are certified for use in household and other applications. These connectors can accommodate fine-stranded and solid conductors, making them suitable for a wide range of wiring situations.
When using WAGO connectors, it is important to follow legal standards and best practices. Spliced wire connections must be contained inside a distribution or junction box, and connections must be fixed in position, complying with DIN VDE 0100-520 standards. Additionally, WAGO provides Alu-Plus Contact Paste, which enables electricians to quickly and easily connect aluminium and copper conductors.
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Scotchlok connectors
One way to tie two electrical cords together is by using Scotchlok connectors. These connectors allow you to connect two wires without the need for stripping the wires beforehand. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to use Scotchlok connectors:
Preparing the Wires
Before using Scotchlok connectors, ensure that the wires you want to connect are prepared correctly. Make sure the wires are cut to the appropriate length, with enough slack to work with. If needed, strip the insulation from the ends of the wires using a wire stripper to expose the conductors. It is important to match the correct wire gauge with the appropriate Scotchlok connector size.
Inserting the Wires
Once the wires are prepared, you can begin the connection process. Open the Scotchlok connector by lifting the cap or cover. Identify the insertion holes or channels within the connector. Align the wires with their respective channels, making sure they are properly oriented. Gently insert the wires into the connector, ensuring that they are firmly seated and make contact with each other.
Crimping the Connector
After inserting the wires, it's time to crimp the Scotchlok connector. Using a suitable pair of pliers, squeeze down on the metal insert inside the connector. This action creates a secure connection between the wires by deforming the metal and creating a tight grip on the conductors. Ensure that you apply enough pressure to crimp the connector properly without damaging the wires.
Closing the Cap
Finally, close the cap or cover of the Scotchlok connector. This step ensures that the connection is protected and insulated. Gently push or snap the cap into place, ensuring that it is securely closed. With the cap closed, the connection is complete, and the two electrical cords are now joined together.
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Stripping and twisting wires
To use a wire stripper and twister tool, first, install the device onto the hand drill chuck and clamp it down, ensuring that the drill is set to rotate clockwise. Next, pass the wires to be connected through the wire hole, ensuring that they are level with each other. Clamp the wires together using a wire cutter, and position the pliers and wire twisting tool as close to the wires as possible. Start the electric drill, being careful not to start too fast or pull back, but rather push slightly in the direction of the pliers.
There are also self-stripping tools available, which remove wire insulation with a compound action. When you squeeze the handle, the tool grips, strips, and removes the insulation in one motion. These tools are more expensive than regular strippers but can be more convenient and efficient.
Additionally, there are manual, pneumatic, and electric wire strippers available that can accommodate different wire sizes and types, such as shielded twisted multi-conductor cable. These tools often feature precision blades, articulating arms, and interchangeable dies to ensure a clean and accurate stripping process.
It is important to note that wire stripping and twisting should be done carefully and, if possible, by a professional. While it may seem straightforward, improper stripping and twisting can lead to safety hazards, so caution and precision are crucial.
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Frequently asked questions
The best way to join two electrical cords is by splicing them together.
First, cut the ends off the cords to remove any frayed ends. Place the two cords on a flat surface, then use a soldering iron to solder the wires together. Place heat-shrink tubing over the splice and shrink it using a hair dryer or soldering iron. Finally, wrap electrical tape over the splice.
Some other methods include using crimp connectors, Scotchlok connectors, and Wago connectors.
It is important to ensure that you are using the correct size and type of connector for your wires. Always refer to a trusted guide or manual for your specific use case.
