The Role of Alligator Clips in Electrical Connections

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Among the popular types of electrical clips are alligator clips – but how can they be used?

Electrical clips have been around for a long time. In present times, they are widely used in home applications. Such devices connect two electrical components in a secure and precise way. One of the modern-day clips available on the market is alligator clips.

Alligator clips have an interesting design and incredible uses. Keep reading to learn more about this versatile tool.

Alligator Clips

An alligator clip is a spring-loaded metal clip used for temporary electrical connections. What makes it unique is its serrated jaws, which resemble the shape of crocodile’s mouth – thus, the name.

These clips have two metal strips on each end, with one directly connected to the other. They function the same way as a clothespin but can have different applications. For instance, in a school setting, to show the function of batteries, bulbs or circuity.

Moreover, larger units are often used for maintenance. They are usually paired with battery chargers and jump leads. Or in welding operations for absorbing excess heat.

Alligator clips also come in various types of metal and insulation colours, depending on the use. But sometimes, it is just a matter of aesthetics. There are stainless steel, nickel-plated steel (silver), gold-plated steel, and copper (rose gold).

Other terms for the alligator clip:

• Crocodile clip
• Plier clip
• Battery clamp

Different Types

Below are the available types of alligator clips on the market and their typical uses:

• Insulated. Suitable for creating electrical connections with insulation protecting the user. Most have soft red or black plastic boots for cover.
• Heavy-duty. Ideal for tasks involving high currents or heavy industrial equipment. This includes power generators, battery chargers, or welding tools.
• Micro. Useful for smaller wires that you do not want to deform. The clip has smooth flat metal blades that clamp down on the wire, making for a good connection to thinner wires. There are strain-relief crimp points and a solder hole at the end of the clip.
• Plastic. The plastic shed provides robust insulation. Most are made of high-quality PP material. Often used in the clothing industry to hold shirts and keep delicate garments in place.

The Working Principle

Alligator clips are commonly used in electrical circuits to connect two components temporarily. Take wires or batteries, for instance. The jaw acts as the connection point between the components, while the clasp holds them.

This connection is known as a “jumper.” To form a circuit between two points, attach one end of the alligator clip to each connected device. Make sure that both ends have contact with metal surfaces. Then, close the clamp by squeezing it shut until it locks into place.

The clamp will form an electrical connection when properly closed. This will serve as a bridge between the two components of your circuit or device in return.

How to Use an Alligator Clip

Using it as a clamp to hold two objects in place, the operation is straightforward. But using it to create an electrical connection is more complex. If you are not using a version with a built in plug, you should follow the step-by-step guide below:

• First, disconnect all electrical items from the mains power.
• Use wire strippers to remove the plastic insulation from the end of the wire. A light pinch should be enough to cut through the coating, allowing it to be easily peeled away.
• Thread the exposed end of the wire through the hole at the back of the clip. Then, loop it around the fastening screw if one is available before tightening. If there is no screw, you may need to crimp the wire to hold it in place using a crimp tool.
• Next, apply solder. Place the soldering iron against a roll of the substance to create a small patch. Then, apply it to the alligator clip and wire connection, and let it cool. Proceed with caution, as soldering creates high temperatures.
• Now you have a solid connection between the clip and the wire! Open the jaws by pinching the back and attach this to the battery or electrical device.
• Apply a standard voltage indicator to test and ensure the current is flowing.

Common Applications of Alligator Clips

These clips are versatile enough to have numerous creative purposes. But they have some very common uses, including:

Electrical connections

The main use of alligator clips is in establishing electrical connections. They clip onto terminals and components to create an electrical connection. Once clipped, they can be left, which frees up the user for other tasks.

Laboratory

It turns out that they also make an easy way to assemble or alter experimental circuits. They connect two wires or one wire to the anode or cathode of a device. This makes them useful in educational lab settings, e.g. with batteries and lightbulbs.

This also makes them ideal for laboratory demonstrations in high school classes.

Crafts

Alligator clips can be vastly useful in craft-making activities. Craft-makers use these clips to hold together small pieces for gluing, measurement & more. For instance, construction paper and felt added to the clip to make it look like an actual alligator.

ID badges

Besides doing their part in electrical work, they are also used for holding ID badges. Such clips are attached to the end of a lanyard and used to clip the employee badges to the lanyard.

Alligator clips can be utilised for any purpose for which a serrated jaw is necessary. A great example of this is attaching patient bibs in the dental office.

Get Your Alligator Clips Here!

Alligator Clip Ni Plated (Screw Connection or 4mm Banana Plug)

Product code: CL0020

This alligator clip consists of nickel-plated steel with a screw connection. It is also compatible with 4mm banana plugs.

With a jaw opening of 7.87 mm and a current rating of 10A.

Large Alligator Clips 55mm with Vinyl Boot

Large alligator clips with vinyl boots available in black and red colour and 55mm in length. Ideal use for laboratory and classroom settings.

Small alligator clips, in 38mm length, are also available in 6-colour vinyl boots.

Alligator Clips with 4mm Socket

These alligator clips with a socket are made of nickel-plated steel and accept a 4mm plug. The overall length is 51mm, with a clamping limit of 15mm.

4mm Safety Crocodile Clips 10A 25mm

Crocodile clips with 4mm safety socket terminal. Insulated crocodile clips with a 25mm jaw opening. Available individually in Black, Green or Red colour and in a set of 3 (one of each colour).

The Bottom Line

Alligator clips are essential tools for anyone studying electricity or electronics. With an easy setup process, they allow you to make simple connections quickly. Because they are clips, they will stay put, which frees up your hands. Ideal for those times when you do not want to fuss around with time-consuming wiring setups!