M18-6FLK Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The M18-6FLK is a 6 stud spade terminal connector manufactured by 3M, designed for crimp termination of 18-22 AWG wire. This non-insulated, tin-plated copper terminal operates as a spring snap connector in free-hanging, in-line mounting configurations. The part is Active status and RoHS Compliant, making it suitable for current production applications. Substitute parts are identified when equivalent electrical and mechanical parameters align with the original specification, ensuring functional interchangeability in the target circuit or assembly.

Substiute Parts

M18-6FLK

3MIn Stock: 871M18-6FLK Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

P18-6LF-M

Panduit CorpIn Stock: 10013P18-6LF-M Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution eligibility for the M18-6FLK is determined by strict alignment of the following critical parameters:

• Stud/Tab Size: Must be 6 Stud to ensure mechanical fit with mating connectors
• Wire Gauge: Must accommodate 18-22 AWG to maintain proper crimp contact and current-carrying capacity
• Terminal Type: Must be Spring, Snap configuration for functional equivalence
• Termination Method: Must be Crimp to ensure compatibility with existing assembly processes
• Contact Material: Must be Copper or Copper alloy to maintain electrical conductivity
• Contact Finish: Must be Tin to ensure corrosion resistance and solderability
• Mounting Type: Must be Free Hanging (In-Line) for circuit board or harness integration
• Insulation Status: Must be Non-Insulated to match the original design intent

The P18-6LF-M from Panduit Corp meets all critical substitution criteria and is classified as a manufacturer-recommended equivalent.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The P18-6LF-M is an active-status, ROHS3-compliant substitute for the M18-6FLK. Both parts meet identical electrical and mechanical requirements for 18-22 AWG crimp spade terminals with 6 stud configuration. Regulatory compliance is equivalent, with both parts classified as REACH Unaffected and EAR99 export category.

A minor dimensional variance exists in the Width - Outer Edges specification (0.250" vs. 0.270"), which does not affect functional interchangeability in standard spade terminal applications. This variance is within acceptable tolerance for free-hanging in-line mounting configurations.

Selection between the two parts should be based on availability, lead time, packaging format (3M supplies in standard packaging; Panduit supplies in bulk), and procurement cost.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the P18-6LF-M replace the M18-6FLK in existing assemblies?

A: Yes. Both parts are functionally equivalent for 18-22 AWG crimp spade terminal applications with 6 stud configuration. All critical electrical and mechanical parameters align, including wire gauge, terminal type, contact material, and mounting method.

Q: What is the significance of the width difference (0.250" vs. 0.270")?

A: The width variance is a minor dimensional difference that does not impact functional performance in standard spade terminal applications. Both dimensions fall within acceptable tolerance ranges for free-hanging in-line mounting and mating connector compatibility.

Q: Are both parts RoHS compliant?

A: Yes. The M18-6FLK is RoHS Compliant, and the P18-6LF-M is ROHS3 Compliant. Both meet current regulatory requirements for restricted substance elimination.

Q: What is the difference between standard packaging and bulk packaging?

A: The M18-6FLK is supplied in standard packaging format, while the P18-6LF-M is supplied in bulk packaging. Bulk packaging typically offers higher unit quantities per container, affecting inventory management and cost per unit. Functional performance is identical regardless of packaging format.

Q: Are both parts REACH compliant?

A: Both parts are classified as REACH Unaffected, indicating they do not contain substances of very high concern (SVHC) requiring REACH registration or authorization.

Q: Can these parts be used interchangeably in new designs?

A: Yes. Both parts meet identical specifications for 18-22 AWG crimp spade terminals and can be specified interchangeably in new circuit designs and assemblies.