Solder connectors and shrink connectors: Connecting cables safely

There are various techniques for insulating and connecting cables. In addition to detachable cable connections such as luster terminals, there are non-detachable connections for built-in installations. These include crimp connections and cable lugs. However, cable crimp connections always require the appropriate tool in the form of crimping pliers or ratchet pliers. In contrast, solder connectors create quick and secure cable connections without additional tools – simply using heat shrink tubing. Read on now to learn everything you need to know about solder connectors and heat shrink connectors.

Secure cable connections – even without tools

The term “solder connectors” is misleading, because these cable connections are not soldered, but can be installed with the help of a local heat source. The connector’s heat-shrink tubing contracts when exposed to heat, such as from a heat gun or lighter. This creates a dust- and moisture-proof cable connection that is secured against pulling and bending. We offer heat-shrinkable end connectors and heat-shrinkable butt connectors for the mechanically resilient connection of two cables as soldered joints. For the cable connection, you do not need any other tools besides cable shears or wire strippers. This makes electrical installation work easier, for example in building services and automotive engineering.

Suitable heat-shrinkable solder connectors

In the following, we dedicate ourselves to the task of finding suitable heat-shrinkable solder connectors for your project. 

Finding the right solder connector 

Of course, it is important to find the right solder connector. To do this, you need to consider several criteria. It is important that these criteria are followed to ensure safe installation of the connectors. In the following, we explain what you have to pay attention to and what problems can occur.

Length of the connector: 

The safety of the cable connection also depends largely on the length of the cable connector. In general, a longer connector is recommended for cables that are subject to mechanical stress. This is the case because these larger pieces fix the cable. So, as you can see, it is important to choose the right length of the connector.

Diameter of the connector: 

Even by tightly fitting the heat shrink tubing around the cable, the solder connector must always fit the particular cable cross-section/bundle diameter. The conductor can be damaged if the diameter is too small, as it is under constant pressure. It can also come loose if the diameter is too large. So you should always make sure to calculate the right diameter of the connector.

Protection class or IP code number of the connector:

The environmental conditions for which a solder connector is suitable is indicated by the protection class. The first number of the two-digit IP number indicates how shock-resistant the housing is. The second indicates how well it protects against moisture. So make sure that the IP rating of your connector is suitable for the purpose for which you want to use it.

Professional accessories for electrical installation work

We not only specialize in providing these types of connections, tools and work equipment. We also offer a wide range of small parts and accessories for the professional mechatronics engineer. Especially for the automotive sector, you can find all hand of the following products: 

• Cable connectors
• automotive fuses
• Lighting elements
• Lamps and much more

Crimping or Shrinking – Conclusion

Both crimping and shrinking both require extra tools. However, these are usually tools that most people interested in mechatronics have at home. Either a pair of crimping pliers or a heat source. Derey crimp connectors can do both crimping and shrinking these days. This new development for crimp connector works like a traditional crimp connector. However, there is also a special safety tool: the connector is shrunk not only by crimping, but also by heat influence afterwards. The result of this is a strong, permanent tight connection with high chemical resistance.

So if you can’t decide, this innovative tool is the best for you.

Join our Facebook-Community!