Terminal Blocks

Terminal blocks are an important part of the electrical components. Terminal blocks are defined as insulated and modular blocks which are used to provide safe secure connections. Consisting of an insulating body and a clamping device, terminal blocks secure two or more wires or cables together. These terminal blocks are very flexible thereby allowing flexibility and centralized wiring, making them easier to maintain complex control circuits.

Variations
Terminal blocks are available as:

• Single feed through: This is a basic type of terminal block having one input and one output contact. They are used for wire-to-wire connections where the wire can be fed through one side and out of the other.
  
  
• Dual level: Also known as the double level or two tier, these terminal blocks consist of two levels of contacts. These fittings are used for saving space and simplifying wiring.
  
  
• Dual level bridged: These are also known as double level or two tier. These bridged blocks make use of a "bridge" for one level to another for increased circuit flexibility. These blocks consist of two levels of contacts and are used for saving space and simplifying wiring.
  
  
• Three level: Also known as three tier blocks, these terminal blocks have three level of contacts and are used for saving space and simplifying wiring.
  
  
• Three level bridged: These blocks are also known as three tier, and have three levels of contacts. They are used for saving space and simplifying wiring. The blocks make use of a "bridge" for connecting one level to another for increased circuit flexibility.
  
  
• Thermocouple blocks: These are used for connecting thermocouples.
  
  
• I/O blocks: It is used for providing communication between a controller, usually a PLC or IPC, and some type of sensor level devices.

Buyers Guide
The following section contains various specifications of terminal blocks that must be kept in mind while purchasing terminal blocks. These are:

• Terminal Block Specifications
  There are certain important specifications that a buyer must consider while selecting termination blocks. These are:
  • Numbers of input terminals
  • Number of output terminals
  • Maximum working voltage
  • Maximum current rating
    
    
• Termination types
  • Screw clamps
  • Spring clamps
  • Insulation displacement (IDC)
  • Tab connections
    
    
• Mounting Styles
  These include:
  • Universal mounting foot
  • 15 mm DIN rail
  • 32 mm DIN rail
  • 35 mm DIN rail
  • Panel mount
  • PCB
    
    
• Features
  These include:
  • Pluggable
  • Stackable
  • Indicator lights
  • Diodes
  • 45-degree entry
    
    
• Product Approvals
  Manufacturer can take the approvals from the following organizations:
  • CE conformity marks
  • CSA mark
  • UL listing mark
  • UL recognized component mark
  • VDE component mark.