Splitting 12V high current DC wire

In summary, the connector has 56 pins and they are wired together in large groups on the "client" side of the connector. We wish to re wire these groups together and then split them off into 24x 18 AWG a few feet removed from the connector. The current through the connector could approach 100 A at 12 V DC.
  • #1
MisterX
764
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A large number (56) of 18 gauge-ish connection pins are presented by the connector. They are wired together in large groups on the "client" side of the connector (4 electrodes). We wish to re wire these groups together and then split them off into 24x 18 AWG a few feet removed from the connector. The current through the connector could approach 100 A at 12 V DC. I am looking for easy and elegant solutions to accomplish this in a sturdy way. One idea is to use a covered bus bar. Let me know if you have any ideas about wiring.
 
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  • #2
I don't understand what you are trying to accomplish. Can you elaborate?
 
  • #3
I am looking to construct a cable or series of cables.

56 pin input (28 ground 28 +12V) --> 2 wire conducting path -> split off multiple 18 AWG paths. I am inquiring about what construction methods to use.
 
  • #4
Auto/marine power distribution Busbars with properly crimped and sized ring terminals would be my choice at 12vdc. For a two wire disconnect (indoors with no special environmental considerations) Anderson Powerpole connectors could be used with PowerMod for individual 18 gauge wires.

http://www.12voltplanet.co.uk/power-distribution-posts-blocks-busbars.html
http://www.andersonpower.com/us/en/products/powerpole/
http://www.andersonpower.com/us/en/products/powermod/index.aspx
 
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  • #5
nsaspook said:
Auto/marine power distribution Busbars with properly crimped and sized ring terminals would be my choice at 12vdc. For a two wire disconnect (indoors with no special environmental considerations) Anderson Powerpole connectors could be used with PowerMod for individual 18 gauge wires.

http://www.12voltplanet.co.uk/power-distribution-posts-blocks-busbars.html
http://www.andersonpower.com/us/en/products/powerpole/
http://www.andersonpower.com/us/en/products/powermod/index.aspx
This is the solution I have been considering. Unfortunately the cost is getting to be too much perhaps. It's over $50 if I use multiple wires per screw on the busbars and more if I don't. This includes the price of two busbars and crimp ring terminals. I am not sure how good the contact would be in that case with the ring terminals stacked on top of each other. I am considering a mere soldering and shrink wrap solution. A bad connection here could cause damage to ~$500 in equipment so perhaps an investment in connectors is warranted. Nonetheless bit by bit things like this add significantly to overall cost.
 
  • #6
Stacked terminals per screw should not be a problem at your current levels and the results will be far superior electrically than soldering.

The conductor Ampacity for 18 gauge is ~7amps. For 24 equal resistance conductors at 100A that's about 5.5 A per wire.
Typical ring terminal contact resistance should under 1 milliohm for these types of terminals causing minimal losses per terminal connection.

http://www.te.com/usa-en/product-60772-2.html
Contact test data. http://www.te.com/commerce/DocumentDelivery/DDEController?Action=showdoc&DocId=Specification+Or+Standard502-1285ApdfEnglishENG_SS_502-1285_A.pdf61588-1
 
  • #7
Maybe a golf cart connector ?
 

1. What is the purpose of splitting a 12V high current DC wire?

Splitting a 12V high current DC wire allows you to divide the power output between multiple devices or components, rather than having all the power going to just one source.

2. How do I split a 12V high current DC wire?

To split a 12V high current DC wire, you will need to use a splitter or a distribution block. These devices have multiple outlets or terminals where you can connect your wire, allowing you to split the power output.

3. Is it safe to split a 12V high current DC wire?

Yes, it is safe to split a 12V high current DC wire as long as you follow proper safety precautions and use the appropriate equipment. It is important to make sure that the splitter or distribution block you are using can handle the amount of current that will be passing through it.

4. How many devices can I connect to a split 12V high current DC wire?

The number of devices you can connect to a split 12V high current DC wire depends on the power requirements of each device and the capacity of the splitter or distribution block. It is important to check the specifications of your devices and the splitter/block before connecting them.

5. Can I split a 12V high current DC wire with different size wires?

It is not recommended to split a 12V high current DC wire with different size wires. This can cause imbalances in the power output and potentially damage your devices. It is important to use wires of the same gauge when splitting a wire.

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