Terminal blocks offer a cost-effective and time-saving solution for connecting wires. Not only do they make connecting wires in the field a simple and straightforward process, but they also provide an added layer of safety by grounding, isolating and protecting components in an electrical circuit. Read on for Hitaltech’s guide to terminal blocks.
What is a terminal block?
Terminal blocks, also known as terminal connectors or connection terminals, are insulated modular blocks that secure two or more wires together. Used in an array of industrial applications requiring safely connected electrical systems, terminal blocks provide secure, well-managed and semi-permanent wire connections.
How do terminal blocks work?
Within the insulating body of a terminal block is a current carrying element, which is typically a terminal bar or metal strip. Terminal blocks are generally modular in nature and feature a mounting arrangement that enables them to be easily mounted and unmounted from either a printed circuit board (PCB) or a DIN rail.
Terminal blocks are available in a range of shapes, sizes and ratings. The main benefits of terminal blocks are that they keep connections secure and promote better wire management. It is worth bearing in mind that terminal blocks always terminate a single wire (also known as a pole) and are never multi-pole.
What is a terminal block used for?
Terminal blocks are simple but effective connectors for joining one or more wires together without the need for soldering. Terminal blocks are also an effective safety feature used to ground, isolate and protect other components in an electrical circuit. Some terminal blocks also feature finger-safe connections to prevent electrical shocks and provide test points as an added safety measure.
What is a terminal block made of?
Terminal blocks are typically comprised of a solid body made from plastic or a similarly insulating material, like ceramic, to electrically isolate adjacent blocks. A terminal block’s conducting parts are usually made of copper and corrosion-resistant metals that are compatible with copper.
How do you select a terminal block?
There are a number of electrical and mechanical considerations to take into account when selecting a terminal block. It is worth bearing in mind the following factors when making your selection:
- Current rating – Aim for at least 150% of the max current that is expected in the system.
- Voltage rating – The maximum system voltage of the application must be less than the voltage rating.
- Pole count – This is the number of individual circuits within the terminal block, ranging from one to 24.
- Pitch – This is defined as the centre distance from one pole to the next, such as 2.54 mm or 5.0 mm.
- Wire size/type – Ensure the wires will fit and whether they need to be single- or multi-core.
- Wire orientation – Determine whether your wires need to be orientated 45°, 90° or 180°.
- Wire securing method – Decide whether you need a screw terminal, push button or push-in terminal block.
Purchase terminal blocks from Hitaltech
Hitaltech manufactures a wide range of wire-to-board terminal blocks with pitches ranging from 2.54mm up to 19mm. Our impressive product range covers 8A to 125A with horizontal, vertical or angled mounting options available.
We can even supply custom-designed products to suit your exact specifications. We have been creating high-quality connecting technologies and enclosures for electronic and electrical applications for over 35 years. Our vast range of superior products has been designed with our customers in mind.
If you are looking for professional connecting technologies and enclosures, we have everything from wire-to-board connectors to hand held enclosures. If you would like to find out more about our products, including our connecting technologies and enclosures, please contact us today on +44 (0)1253 899910 or email uksales@hitaltech.co.uk. The Hitaltech team is always on hand to answer any questions you may have.
