A terminal block is a type of insulated electrical connector that connects or secures two or more wires together. They enable the safe connection of wires between circuits. Terminal blocks, also known as terminal strip or connection blocks are used in a wide range of industrial, commercial, and domestic applications. RS offer an extensive selection of high-quality components from leading suppliers including Weidmuller, Phoenix Contact, WAGO, ABB, Entrelec, and of course RS PRO.
What are the terminal blocks used for?
Terminal blocks are typically used in industrial power, control, automation, and signal applications where several connections are needed at any one time. Connectors are typically mounted on DIN rail and fixed into panels or electrical enclosures.
Termination Types
Terminal blocks are often categorised by their termination type. The type of connection technology you choose depends on the application, environment, and conductor cross-section or AWG size of your cable. Our terminal blocks are available in several types, they include
Screw Clamp
Screw clamp terminals are the most common type of connection method. Conductors are inserted into the block and are pressed against the conductor strip. A screw is then tightened making the connection
Spring Clamp
Spring clamp terminals use a spring-operated clamping mechanism to hold the conductor in place. A screwdriver is inserted into the terminal, the wire is inserted and when the clamp is released it holds the wire in place. These types of terminals are very secure and ideal in environments subject to high vibration.
Push-in connection
The push-in technology allows you to simply push the conductor into the connection gap. Push-in types allow you to use solid conductors or stranded wires with the addition of a ferrule connector. These are tool-free for quick installation.
What is a DIN Rail terminal block?
One of the most common types of connector blocks used today is the DIN Rail type. DIN rail connectors can be single feed though, duel level, and three-level. The terminals are simply clipped onto the rail and mounted into panels or enclosures. DIN Rail terminals are ideal for applications where space is limited.
Types of Terminal Blocks
RS supply a wide range of high-performance terminal blocks to suit your every need. Our terminal connectors come in a vast array of types, styles, and connection methods. Some of the most popular are
- DIN Rail terminals, in single, dual, and triple-level.
- PCB terminal blocks.
- Standard terminal (or choc block strips).
- Distribution blocks and Commoning blocks.
- Fused blocks.
- Barrier strips.
