Disconnect Terminal Blocks
Disconnect terminal blocks let you easily interrupt electrical circuits without removing the wires. The most common use is in control cabinets. There, the blocks serve as convenient and safe methods for isolating circuits under three general conditions: maintenance, testing, and troubleshooting. Except for the maintenance condition, where the power has been turned off, the disconnect blocks provide a way to safely handle live wires. Testing and troubleshooting can be tricky if you can't safely and easily access the wires you need to work with.
Test disconnect terminal blocks possess two highly useful functions for an electrical technician: the ability to interrupt a circuit and the ability to test the circuit without ever having to fully disconnect it from the power source. Both functions are yielded in a terminal block that offers convenience, reduces the potential for errors, and allows for the safe testing of all sorts of circuits directly at the terminal block while using common test instruments.
More Information about Disconnect Terminal Blocks
Terminal blocks that disconnect may have features built in to make them easy to operate yet effective. For example, a block may include a disconnect lever. Or a link that can be removed to create the necessary disconnection in a circuit. If the need arises to separate paths in a multi-circuit system or a circuit using modular wiring, such as that in a control cabinet, these blocks can fulfill that role nicely. They mount to DIN rails and fit into tight spaces The circuit paths aren't left hanging, either, as protective devices such as fuses can be used to make the circuits safe.
FAQs
Is there a clear functional advantage to a terminal strip and what type of connection technology and mounting type does it employ?
Yes, a terminal strip offers a clear functional advantage by organizing and securing multiple wire connections in one compact unit, typically using screw connection technology and panel or DIN rail mounting for easy integration into electrical systems.
What is the rated cross section of disconnect terminal blocks?
The rated cross section of disconnect terminal blocks typically ranges from 0.2 mm² to 10 mm², depending on the model and manufacturer, indicating the range of conductor sizes they are designed to safely accommodate.
Terminal Blocks Basics
Single Level Pass Through Terminal Blocks are used to connect two wires together with a common junction point. This is helpful when a component needs to be disconnected or isolated within a circuit. These are the most common types of terminal blocks in industrial applications.
Ground Terminal Blocks function almost exactly like most pass through terminal blocks with one exception: they are grounded. These terminal blocks have a metal connection from where the wire is terminated, all the way to the bottom of the block where it will clamp into the panel. This allows for an electrical circuit to be grounded without running a wire to the main ground connection on a breaker or surge protector.
Fused Terminal Blocks function almost exactly like most pass through terminal blocks with one exception: the presence of a fuse. This fuse provides protection for components from too much voltage or current.
Multilevel Terminal Blocks are used to connect two wires together with a common junction point, just like single pass though terminal blocks, but with the advantage of making two electrical connections in the same block. These blocks also incorporate fuses and can be grounded.
Disconnect Terminal Blocks are similar to fused blocks, however the disconnect stops the flow of electricity by lifting a lever on the terminal block. Unlike fuse blocks, they are a more permanent solution, but will not provide any protection in the event of a power surge.