TERMINAL BLOCKS: EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW

Choosing the proper terminal block may be just as complex and time-consuming as picking out a new motor or CPU. There are literally thousands of possible variations, and most manufacturers and distributors have hundreds or even thousands of them.

What Do Terminal Blocks Do?

The phrase "terminal block" is used interchangeably to refer to the modular, insulated blocks used in electrical connections to join together or terminate two or more electrical lines. They may be boiled down to a long strip of individual terminals that are all connected to one another. Connecting wires to power sources like outlets and switches or the mains or ground is as easy as using a terminal.

A terminal block's body is often made from a copper alloy that expands at the same rate as the wires it is meant to house. It is crucial to find a matching coefficient to avoid the connection coming loose due to different growth rates. Corrosion generated by the electrolytic reaction of dissimilar metals is also mitigated. Terminal blocks are now routinely installed in vast combinations on DIN Rails because of the reliance on complicated electrical and electronic connections in current industrial applications. Terminal blocks for anything from an essential circuit breaker to an advanced PLC may be mounted on DIN rails, which can now be found practically everywhere.

TYPES OF TERMINAL BLOCKS

Terminal blocks may be categorized in two ways: by the devices they support and by their physical design. They may also differ based on the kind of connection used, such as screw, screw-less, spring clamp, or even push-in plug-and-socket modular connectors.

Structured Types

SINGLE FEED-THROUGH

The most fundamental product variety is the single feed-through terminal block, used for the most elementary wire-to-wire connections. There is just one input contact and one output contact on a single feed-through block. A single wire enters and exits the block, while another pair of wires are linked within.

DOUBLE LEVEL BLOCKS

This style of layout utilizes a bridge to link the two tiers of contact, allowing for more circuit versatility. This terminal block design streamlines wiring and requires less bench space during setup.

THREE LEVEL BLOCKS

This terminal block is similar to the dual-level variety, except it has an additional row of connections. They function similarly to dual-level terminal blocks in that they can be connected together.

Device Types

·         Blocks for connecting thermocouples provide stable metal connections for reliable temperature readings.

·         The three- and four-wire devices, such as photoelectric and proximity sensors, are easily managed using sensor/actuator blocks.

·         Input/output (I/O) blocks allow direct interaction between a controller and an external device.

·         Using a knife switch, a circuit can be quickly and easily disconnected from a disconnected block (also known as a switch block).

·         Multiple fuses from various devices can be connected in one place using fuse holders. The fuse holder limits damage from a short circuit to the wires immediately attached.

·         Electrical systems and components are grounded via the use of ground circuit connections. They can be used instead of any regular terminal block and swapped in and out as needed.

·         Blocks used to terminate power lines are known as power distribution blocks.

Which Terminal Block Is Right for You?

Selecting a terminal block is straightforward and methodical, with the primary determinant being the intended function. Important factors to think about include the kind of termination, contact specifications, orientation, mounting, and unique features. These four stages constitute the gold standard procedure:

STEP 1: SELECT THE TYPE

Several varieties of terminal blocks have been available; screw-less, Screw-mounted, single-feed-through, fuse holder, ground circuit, multi-level, direct mount, and disconnect are just some options.

STEP 2: DETERMINE THE ELECTRICAL SPECIFICATIONS

Then, the maximum wire size, voltage, and current for each terminal block must be determined. A wire's amperage rating will influence the wire entrance's size, typically specified in mm2. Other factors include whether a solid or stranded conductor is utilized and what size range of conductors may be used in the field.

STEP 3: SELECT THE ACCESSORIES

After settling on a deep or shallow block housing, the block cover(s) and end brackets may be attached. Put in angled support brackets, top coverings, separators, internal jumpers, test plugs, and so forth with printed or blank identification tags.

Circuit breakers, warning lights, and bulb-testing diodes are just some of the optional extras that may be found in a terminal block. Pluggable terminal blocks are often DIN rail mounted and stackable to maximize efficiency. These blocks join terminals in a manner that permits a whole stack to be cut off from power by unplugging a single cord.

STEP 4: CALCULATE THE RAIL LENGTH

Calculating the overall density per foot of various terminal blocks and their related amounts can help you establish how much DIN rail you will need for your assembly. After that, you need to add half an inch (0.5 cm) to either end of the rail to provide room for the mounting screws and another 0.0008" (0.2 mm) of tolerance for each terminal. The width of the end covers, the end brackets, and any separators must also be factored in.

Analysis of Risk

Terminal blocks have a flammability rating of UL94V-0 and are often made from materials certified or built to UL and IEC safety standards. You may find both UL and IEC ratings on a datasheet, which may have different values. This is due to the fact that various organizations have varying standards and criteria that a terminal block must fulfill. Selecting a terminal block requires knowing the system's overall safety criteria and verifying that the terminal block ratings meet those standards.

Conclusion

Terminal blocks are the best option for making intricate electrical connections, yet there are many things to think about when building a whole system. Terminal blocks from Terminal Block Exporter come in a wide selection of colors and configurations to help you solve your wire-to-board design problems.

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