General Guide & Overview

A terminal block is a modular housing with an insulated body that securely connects two or more wires together. Commonly known as terminal connectors or screw terminals, they play a vital role in electrical systems, enabling secure and organized wire connections.

There are various types of terminal blocks available, including PCB mount, barrier strips, and feed-through/DIN rail. When choosing terminal blocks, it is important to consider factors such as current rating, voltage rating, pole count, pitch, and wire size/type. Mechanical considerations include wire-entry orientation, wire-securing method, module type, and wire-to-housing method.

Terminal blocks are typically certified to UL and/or IEC safety standards, ensuring reliable performance. They also meet flammability ratings meeting UL94V-0. Additional design considerations include housing color, special markings for differentiation, and operating temperature of the system.

Whether you are working with PCB mount terminal blocks, barrier strips, feed-through terminal blocks, or DIN rail terminal blocks, understanding their features and applications will help you make informed decisions for your specific wiring needs.

Terminal Block Marker Types

In the world of electrical systems, terminal blocks play a crucial role in providing secure and organized wire connections. They come in various types to meet different wiring needs.

PCB Mount Terminal Blocks

PCB mount terminal blocks, also known as Eurostyle or wire-to-board terminal blocks, are designed to be inserted into a module. They feature a clamp that securely holds the wire while the housing is soldered to a PCB. These terminal blocks are popular for their compact size and efficient wire connections.

Barrier Strips

Barrier strips are equipped with screw-down terminals where ring or spade terminals can be attached to the wires. These terminals are then tightened into the housing. Barrier strips are commonly used in applications where vibration is a concern, as they provide reliable wire connections.

Feed-Through Terminal Blocks

Feed-through terminal blocks are utilized for wire-to-wire connections. They have one input and one output contact, allowing two wires to be fed into opposite sides of the housing. These terminal blocks are often found in DIN rail mount configurations, providing easy and secure wire connections in industrial settings.

DIN Rail Terminal Blocks

DIN rail terminal blocks are available in two main types. The feed-through type enables wire-to-wire connections just like the feed-through terminal blocks mentioned earlier. On the other hand, the ground type grounds the incoming wires to the DIN rail or panel, ensuring proper electrical grounding in the system. DIN rail terminal blocks are commonly used in industrial environments for their reliability and easy installation.

Each type of terminal block mentioned above has its own unique advantages and is suitable for different applications based on specific wiring requirements. Choosing the right terminal block type is essential to ensure secure and efficient electrical connections in various systems.

Preprinted and Custom-printed Terminal Block Markers

When it comes to terminal block markers, there are two options that provide convenience and versatility: preprinted markers and custom-printed markers. Both types offer a professional and standardized marking solution for industrial plants and equipment.

Preprinted markers are readily available and come in a standard-size frame. They are designed to fit terminal blocks, wires and cables, and various industrial equipment. These markers can be easily removed from the frame and are compatible with many Allen-Bradley products. They offer a quick and efficient way to label your connections without the need for customization.

On the other hand, custom-printed markers allow for personalized marker cards with excellent print quality. Using software like ClearTools, you can create these markers according to your specific requirements. The markers can be made-to-order and are defined by catalog numbers. With custom-printed markers, you have the flexibility to include your company information, specify the quantity required, and choose from various sizes and orientations such as horizontal, vertical, upside-down, and reversed data options.

In addition to terminal block markers, there are different types of markers available for specific applications and equipment. These include cable markers, snap-in individual markers, snap-in linked markers, snap-in hinged markers, self-adhesive markers, and wire markers. Each type serves a unique purpose, ensuring optimal organization and identification of your electrical connections.

For those looking to order custom-printed markers, the Cleartools software simplifies the customization process. Whether you need markers for a small project or a large-scale industrial plant, Cleartools allows you to create marker cards tailored to your needs. Take advantage of these customizable options to enhance the efficiency and professionalism of your labeling efforts.