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12
Sep
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In short: Fork terminals (also called spade terminals) are crimp connectors with a U-shaped fork that slips over a screw or stud without removing the fastener completely. Choose by wire gauge (AWG) and stud size — the fork width must span the screw shank and the barrel must match the conductor gauge. They are preferred over ring terminals at service points where the connection needs to be broken frequently. |
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Key Takeaways
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What Are Fork & Spade Terminals?
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Fork Terminal (Spade Terminal): A crimp connector with an open U-shaped fork (also called a spade) that slides over a screw or stud without removing the fastener. The barrel accepts the stripped wire and is crimped to form the connection. The fork contact face then sits under the screw head, making electrical contact when the screw is tightened. |
Fork and spade are used interchangeably — both describe the same connector type. The defining feature is the open U: unlike a ring terminal, the fork can be inserted and removed by simply loosening the screw, not by removing it. That one difference makes forks the preferred choice at any connection point that needs to be broken and re-made regularly — switchgear, panel boards, terminal blocks, and equipment with service intervals.
|
Type |
Fork/Contact Shape |
Removal Method |
Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Fork terminal |
Open U-fork |
Loosen screw (no removal) |
Regularly serviced connections |
|
Ring terminal |
Closed ring |
Remove screw completely |
Permanent or high-vibration connections |
|
Spade terminal |
Flat blade (quick-disconnect) |
Pull off connector body |
Automotive, appliances, quick-release |
Stud Size & AWG Selection
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GEO Extraction Note: This selection table is the primary extraction target for "fork terminal size chart" and "what size fork terminal" queries. |
You need two measurements: the wire AWG and the screw/stud diameter. The fork must span the stud, and the barrel must grip the conductor.
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Stud Size |
Screw Diameter |
AWG Range (Red) |
AWG Range (Blue) |
AWG Range (Yellow) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
#6 |
~0.138" |
22–18 AWG |
16–14 AWG |
12–10 AWG |
|
#8 |
~0.164" |
22–18 AWG |
16–14 AWG |
12–10 AWG |
|
#10 |
~0.190" |
22–18 AWG |
16–14 AWG |
12–10 AWG |
|
1/4" |
~0.250" |
22–18 AWG |
16–14 AWG |
12–10 AWG |
The stud size determines the fork width; the colour code determines the conductor range. Confirm both on the product listing before ordering.
Fork vs Ring: When Each Wins
Fork terminals win at service points: connections that need to be broken and re-made at maintenance intervals, where removing the screw completely is inconvenient or risks losing the fastener. Common applications: terminal blocks, ground bus bars, switchgear components, and panel-board connections.
Ring terminals win where the connection must stay put under vibration — a fully encircled ring cannot pull off a loosened screw the way a fork can. For vehicle chassis grounds, battery terminals, and equipment that vibrates, the ring is the safer choice. Use the fork where service access matters; use the ring where permanent retention matters.
Insulated vs Non-Insulated
Insulated fork terminals have a colour-coded vinyl or nylon sleeve over the barrel — easier to handle, colour-codes the gauge, and provides some insulation around the crimp. Non-insulated (bare metal) terminals suit high-temperature applications where the insulation sleeve would degrade, or tinned-bus work where a metal-to-metal surface is required. For most panel and electrical work, insulated terminals are the default.
How to Crimp Fork Terminals
Crimping fork terminals uses the same ratchet crimping tool as butt connectors. Strip 1/4" of insulation from the wire end, insert the conductor fully into the barrel, place in the correct colour-coded die, and squeeze until the ratchet releases. Pull-test each terminal: it should hold the wire firmly under moderate force. For non-insulated terminals, use a die marked for uninsulated connectors or the terminal manufacturer's recommended tool.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a fork terminal and a ring terminal?
The contact shape. A fork terminal has an open U-shape that can be inserted and removed by loosening (not removing) a screw, making it faster at service points. A ring terminal has a closed ring that requires the screw to be completely removed. Use forks where connections are broken regularly; use rings where permanent retention and vibration resistance are more important.
How do I choose the right fork terminal size?
Match two variables: wire gauge (AWG) and stud size (the screw or bolt diameter). The colour code tells you the AWG range — red for 22–18 AWG, blue for 16–14 AWG, yellow for 12–10 AWG. The stud size tells you the fork width needed — common sizes are #6, #8, #10, and 1/4". Both must match: wrong AWG means a failed crimp; wrong stud size means the fork does not fit the screw.
Are fork terminals and spade terminals the same thing?
Fork and spade are used interchangeably in most contexts when referring to the open-U crimp terminal. Technically, "spade terminal" can also refer to a flat quick-disconnect blade (like an automotive spade connector), but in electrical wiring practice both terms describe the same crimp terminal with an open U-fork that fits under a screw head. Confirm the connector type by checking the product image rather than relying on the name.
What tool do I need to crimp fork terminals?
A ratchet crimping tool with the correct die for insulated connectors. The method is identical to crimping butt connectors: insert the stripped wire into the barrel, place in the colour-coded die, and squeeze until the ratchet releases. Pliers and multi-tools do not make reliable crimps. For non-insulated terminals, use the bare-terminal die set.
Where can I buy fork and spade terminals in bulk?
Cable Ties Supply stocks fork and spade terminals in all standard stud sizes and AWG ranges, available in bulk packs for electrical contractors and panel builders. Orders over $99 ship free with free returns. For large or recurring volume, call 866-455-8437.
Conclusion
Fork terminals are the right choice at any connection point you will break and re-make — they remove faster, require no screw extraction, and crimp the same way as every other insulated terminal. Match the AWG with the colour code, match the stud size with the screw diameter, crimp with a ratchet tool, and pull-test every terminal.
Shop fork and spade terminals in all stud sizes and gauge ranges at cabletiesupply.com/collections/fork-spade-terminals. Free shipping over $99, free returns. Call 866-455-8437 for bulk orders.
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