small in-line connector

[solobo]

I'm a mechanical engineer but I've been tasked to find a connector to join the ends of two 28g wires in modular fashion--i.e. they need to come apart and go back together, so soldering/crimping/etc. are out. I'm envisioning something like a tiny (around 0.125" diameter) banana plug, but after several hours of searching on digikey I'm discovering I don't know the terminology well enough to know what to look for.

So the question is, what type of connector would fit the bill (small, modular, 1 pin)?

Thanks in advance.

 

[ScottyUK]

What other parameters do you have? Working voltage? Number of mate/de-mate cycles? Exposed or tucked away inside equipment? Skilled or unskilled users? Etc.


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If we learn from our mistakes I'm getting a great education!

 

[mcgyvr]

28 Awg will be more of a problem than a 22 AWG. Once you get into the 22-10 AWG world you have tons of options of quick connect insulated terminals. I'd start with a search on digikey or tycoelectronics sites.

 

[DRWeig]

After gathering the data ScottyUK suggested, I'd find my local Molex rep.

Good on ya,

Goober Dave

 

[mcgyvr]

I was going to suggest Molex but anything I want out of them typically carries a 14-28 week lead time so I try to stay away... Of course I always want their wierd stuff.

 

[DRWeig]

Agreed, McGyr -- I would hope there would be a standard that's in stock at DigiKey or somewhere.

I found it strange that Molex has lots of disconnects for wire sizes 26 AWG and bigger, and 30 AWG and smaller, but nothing for the 28 AWG size in their catalog.

If you can go to 26 AWG without upsetting the design or budget apple cart, DigiKey or others will have quick-disconnects in stock.

Good on ya,

Goober Dave

 

[solobo]

Number of mate/demate cycles would be 1-10, connectors would be tucked away, skilled workers. It sounds like turning my search to "quick connect terminals" and similar would be my best bet. Thanks!

 

[mcgyvr]

actually quick connect terminals is not a good search term as those are usually only for 26-10 AWG. (and typically the 24-26 AWG is not UL rated).

Your best bet is to simply call companies like Molex/Tyco/Samtec (I love Samtec BTW) and talk to their tech support and discuss your needs.. You could spend HOURS searching on the web or a few minutes on the phone.