Distribution Terminal Blocks
Distribution terminal blocks are specifically designed to handle the heavy current that is often seen in power distribution systems without causing overheating or damage to the internal wire or the insulation. They have robust design features and are made from high-quality materials to ensure long service life. Most are made of either brass or a very high-grade aluminum alloy. The most recent ones also have tin-plated parts to ensure electrical conductivity is maintained and to provide corrosion resistance. These terminal blocks are typically used with large wire sizes anywhere in a power distribution system when lots of current is involved.
One effective strategy used with power distribution terminal blocks is to apply color to the wires. By using various shades and hues, the wire assemblies become easier to distinguish visually. Furthermore, labeling is done both on the top side of the power distribution block and the wire side. This identification is done for each wire assembly that might enter the power blocks or any of its communication wings.
Distribution terminal blocks are a common sight in industrial and commercial applications. They connect and distribute electrical power to the myriad of devices and subsystems that make up such environments. For significant amperage, you'll mostly see finger-safe power distribution blocks that are rated for the necessary amount of current and voltage. There are also many compact and pluggable terminal block solutions for power distribution applications.
Products
FAQs
Is a screw connection or push in connection points better for distribution terminal blocks?
Push-in connection points are generally better for distribution terminal blocks due to their ease of installation, secure connections, and time-saving benefits compared to screw connections.
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.