Numerous wiring harness types are utilized in different industries. Wire harnesses are typically made of countless parts. Some even have at least a thousand components depending on the device it was designed for.

Knowing the different components of a wire harness is essential if you want to build a custom one yourself. It also helps to understand the different varieties that make up every single piece. This can ensure that you're using the appropriate parts and materials for the device you're trying to build.

Wire Harness Parts

Insulators- Usually available in several colors, insulators are the tubing that wraps around the wires in a harness. It is designed to secure and protect the wires from possible damage from external elements.

Wires- The wiring is probably the most important element in assembling an electronic wiring harness. Wires are usually made of copper that is coated with the insulating material. All wiring must be able to handle the required current. They carry and transmit the electrical currents needed to operate the device or machine.

Fuses- Fuses are considered a safety device that protects the entire electrical circuit of the electronic harness. They are important because they monitor and stop any excessive currents. Each wiring may require a different fuse, depending on the amount of electricity consumed.

Relays- Preventive relays are used to control inconsistent currents that can damage or adversely affect electronic wiring in any way. They are responsible for connecting and turning off the power according to the required current.

Connectors - From the name itself, connectors are used to join or connect the wires that make up different wiring harness types. Because of how diverse connectors are used, they also come in various kinds each serving different purposes.

● Splice Connectors- Typically used for electronics and telecommunications, splice connectors can be used to splice wires without the need to solder. A terminal clip snaps into place to hold the wires securely together. The connecting piece consists of a plastic clip with a sharp metal that securely cuts the plastic insulating sleeves of the two wires and compresses them.

● Inline Connectors- Inline connectors often come as a pair of male and female connectors. It should be able to maintain signals and have a coordinate system that represents the entry and exit points. When attached to a wire, it should be able to establish a division between two separate entities.

● System Panel Connectors- The connector that's responsible for powering on and off the device are the system panel connectors. The wires they attach to often come in black and red but this all depends on the device with some also having color variations of red, white, or green.

Terminals- A connector terminal attaches the wires to the block terminals and connects a system of different circuits. It also provides electrical grounding for the wiring. Some terminals can be both insulated or non-insulated depending on the purpose and the device it will be utilized. Here are a few examples of common terminals you may find in different wiring harness types.

● Spade Terminals- A spade terminal is often used in different wiring harness types. It's also called a fork terminal based on its "letter U" appearance which is mainly for convenience when it comes to removal or attachment from a screw.

● Ring Terminals- From the name itself, ring terminals are flat and round in shape. It also has a hole in the middle for easy attachment and removal of screws.

● Butt Terminals- A butt terminal serves as a cap that you can place on the ends of a wire instead of cutting. It can also connect the wires together and can shield them from moisture or corrosion.