A wire connector is a small part that joins conductors when you insert them and twist. It is simple to use, but the wrong size will not grip the wires properly. This guide covers how to read the wire combinations in the specification table, how to choose a size, and how to twist the connector on.
The three ALLPUM wire connector ranges
In all three, a steel wire spring inside the body grips the conductors and the outer body insulates the joint. They differ in body material, size range and whether they have wings. The winged type has wings for easy hand twisting and is meant for heavier gauges and multi-wire joints.
| Product | Part no. | Body material | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wire connector (PVC) | APWC-20 · 35 · 55 · 80 | Non-toxic PVC (V-0) | 600V Max · 105℃ |
| Wire connector (PE) | AP-P1 · P2 · P3 · P4 · P6 | Tough Thermoplastic | P1 · P2 300V Max, P3 · P4 · P6 600V Max · 105℃ |
| Winged wire connector (PE) | AP-P11 · P12 · P13 · P15 · P16 | Tough Thermoplastic | 600V Max · 105℃ |
Reading the wire combinations
AWG is the US gauge system, where a smaller number means thicker wire, and SQ is the cross-section in mm². In the table, #14;2 means two 14 AWG wires, and "with" marks a combination of different gauges. Items a) and b) are alternative combinations for that size. The table below uses the PVC range as an example.
| Part no. | Combination a (AWG) | Combination a (SQ) | Combination b (AWG) | Strip length (mm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| APWC-20 | #14 × 2 | 2 × 2 | #12 × 3 | Solid 11.1 / stranded 12.7 |
| APWC-35 | #14 × 2 | 2 × 2 | #14 × 1 + #12 × 3 | Solid 11.1 / stranded 12.7 |
| APWC-55 | #14 × 3 | 2 × 3 | #12 × 4 | Solid 12.7 / stranded 15.1 |
| APWC-80 | #14 × 3 | 2 × 3 | #14 × 1 + #12 × 4 | Solid 13.9 / stranded 15.9 |
Choosing the size, step by step
- Count the wires Note the gauge and number of every wire going into the joint.
- Find the combination Choose a part number that lists that combination. Do not guess at combinations that are not in the table.
- Check the rating AP-P1 and AP-P2 in the PE range are rated 300V Max. Do not use them if the circuit voltage is higher.
- Do not go by colour alone Similar colours appear on different sizes: AP-P3 and AP-P4 in the PE range and winged AP-P11 are all yellow. Check the part number.
How to fit one
- Turn off the power Confirm the wires are not live before you begin.
- Strip the wires Strip to the length in the table. On the PVC range, solid and stranded wire have different lengths.
- Align and insert Line up the wire ends and insert them together, all the way in.
- Twist to tighten Turn the connector clockwise until it feels firm.
- Check it Tug each wire gently, and make sure no bare conductor shows outside the connector.
Points to watch
- Stripping too little gives poor contact; stripping too much leaves dangerous exposed conductor.
- All three ranges are marked 105 ℃. Make sure the temperature where they are installed stays within that.
- The product data shows no waterproof rating, so do not use them as waterproof joints where water can reach them.
- Electrical work must follow local wiring rules and be carried out by a qualified person.
Wire connectors are used across electrical work, lighting installation, and industrial and household wiring. Choosing a size comes down to confirming that your wire combination is in the table. If you need a method that pushes in or locks with a lever instead of twisting, see the guide linked below.
