What is the difference between lugs & terminals?
We often get the question, “are battery lugs and battery terminals interchangeable?” The simple answer is…no. They are very similar in the fact they both create strong connections from the battery cable to the battery system. When it comes to batteries, the location of the studs, or posts, can be significantly different. This is what brings us to the main difference between battery lugs and battery terminals: their uses. Battery lugs are used to connect the battery cable to a solenoid or starter post (image left.) Battery terminals are most frequently used to connect a battery cable to a battery, often seen in automotive or marine applications (image right.) Battery lugs are often used for larger gauge applications for power draw or grounding. For battery terminals, you will need both a negative and a positive polarity terminal for a proper connection.
Types of Battery Lugs
Many people consider copper lugs to be the industry standard. They are great for large gauge applications for power draw or grounding. Lugs are incredibly versatile in the fact that they can be either soldered or crimped to your battery cable for the most secure connection. Del City offers copper lugs in straight, 45°, and 90°. The angled copper lugs are great for space saving stacking and extra clearance.
Another popular choice for battery lugs is the tinned copper lugs. These are similar in construction to the standard copper lugs and provide a tinned coating. This coating stops erosion in its tracks. Using tinned copper lugs in your application protects against corrosion from the start. Tinned lugs are also soldered or crimped like a standard copper lug and are offered in a variety of angles. If your application is in a harsher environment, a tinned copper lug is your best choice.
Types of Battery Terminals
The most popular battery terminals are crafted from copper. For an installation with battery terminals, you will need both a positive and a negative terminal. The copper battery terminals allow for high conductivity and a secure and reliable connection. There are varying shapes of battery terminals that should be explored to find the best fit for your application. The most common type of copper battery terminal is the straight copper battery terminals. These can be either crimped or soldered and are the most versatile. For more unique applications, a parallel battery terminal will come in handy. This shape allows for an installation of two wires, unlike a straight battery terminal which only provides one. Sometimes, you may need a battery connection where you are cramped for space. This is where right angle battery terminals and left angle battery terminals will be of help. They are great for smaller spaces where a straight copper battery terminal may not fit. Have a shortened battery cable? A left or right angle battery terminal is the right choice.
Overall, battery lugs and battery terminals are both incredible tools when it comes to creating a lasting, reliable connection. Del City recently lowered our prices on a great selection of various battery lugs & terminals! Check out Del City’s website to see even more specialty battery lugs or to see specialty battery terminals. There is a right fit out there for everyone! Still have questions? Please feel free to reach out at info@delcity.net or at 262-425-5926. To learn more about various topics, check out our blog!