Crimping
One of the most frequent method to connect terminals/ferrules to wires is to crimp them. It need tools specific to each kind of connection.
Contents
Using crimped ferrules /sleeves
It is preferable to use crimped ferrules on stranded wires and in a lot of countries, it is compulsory for machines cables.
It is normal practice to never directly connect a flexible stranded wire to a terminal block.
Unfortunately, insulated (automotive type), uninsulated and ferrules need different crimping tool, which are also different from the dupont crimping tool. Using low cost crimping tool needs a lot of strength and athletic capacities for a bad result. So again, a ratchet crimp tool may help for insulated automotive type. Ferrules are easier to crimp with non amplified crimp tool.
For the mains, it is also possible to use rigid wires, which don't need ferrules. It is not normal practice for machinery, but could be ok for a machine with negligible vibrations. You may decide according local regulations for machinery.
For ferrules, you could also use the more common square crimper, search words 'HSC8 crimping'.
Using insulated terminals
Insulated terminals 'faston' type, eyed or round terminals, which are crimped in two ares, one for electrical connection and the other for good support of insulation. For this kind of insulated terminals, the color is associated with wire size. It is also possible to crimp uninsulated terminals and use thermoretractable sleeve, but this need other kind of tool.
Insulated terminal ratchet low cost crimping tool Silverline PL55 bought for ~ 14 euros, shipping included. Silverline is poor quality brand, but this tool is ok for limited use, better than the basic tool sold with terminals asortments. This tool may need adjustment (see the teethed wheel on the side). Simple crimping tools as found in set of terminals is not recommended.
Dupont terminals
Dupont terminals are low cost and as the power carried in a printer is low, they could be used for anything except heating. The problem is they are quite difficult to crimp with ordinary pliers. So you need a ratchet type crimp tool and learn to use it. It is NOT recommended to solder, as this create a hard point which under stress, WILL broke one day. Molex connectors are better, but more costly. The same chinese ratchet crimp tool (SN28B) is sold everywhere at very different prices, so search a bit. Got on ebay for ~13 euros, shipping included. Note that to remove a dupont pin or plug, you need to lift the small plastic tongue locking it with a micro screwdriver.
