Solder Creep – Basic Notes and Information
What is Solder Creep? As it pertains to Audio – Solder Creep occurs when a “tinned” wire is subjected to stress after a long period of time. For example: Let’s say you are using a “Crimp Type” Terminal Block or Euroblock (Phoenix) connector, and you happen to “Tin” the wire before crimping. Once you “Crimp” down on the “Tinned” wire, the downward pressure that the crimp/screw produces will eventually lower the crimp’s reliability. These “Tinned” wires will “Flatten Out” and eventually slowly “creep” out of the terminal block/connector. The wire “may or may not” comes out immediately, but it can also create an intermittent connection (being loose in the crimp area). I’ve never read where a manufacturer recommends tinned wires be used in any crimp termination. It is best practice to never “Tin” a wire you will use for any crimp termination. It’s best to twist the wire strands together and crimp the connection (without tinning).
Solder Creep Example – Video Clip!
Solder Creep can potentially occur on any of the devices shown below. Do not “Tin” any kind of “Crimp” termination.
