In this article, we are going to take a look at all things associated with terminal blocks. These tiny components play an important part in many electrical systems and are heavily used in industry.
Below we will take a look at what a terminal block is, the different types of terminal blocks that you can get, where they are used and many more questions you may have about them.
What are terminal blocks?
Terminal blocks are components that feature an insulated outer frame that houses terminals that join two or more wires/cables. A terminal block’s only purpose is to securely join two or more wires together.
In almost all electrical components, machinery and panels you will normally find a number of terminal blocks. They may not all look the same or be the same size but they are all doing the same job. Terminal blocks are used to join two or more wires together within the same electrical system/machine. They remove the need to solder wires or tape wires together, using a terminal block is also much easier, quicker and a lot more reliable than other methods of joining cable.
Terminal blocks are most commonly found in electrical panels/systems that are used to connect power, signals or a wire to the ground.
What are the different types of terminal blocks?
There are a number of different types of terminal blocks that can be used across a number of different electrical applications.
Some of the most common types of terminal blocks are:
- Screw in terminal blocks
- Spring loaded/Spring caged terminal blocks
- European connectors/terminal strips (blocks)
- Pluggable termination blocks
- Push in terminal blocks
We will take a look at the different types of terminal blocks in more depth below.
Screw in terminal blocks
The screw-in terminal block is one of the most common types of terminal blocks that are found in electrical systems and panels. They feature an insulated body with screws that are used to hold the terminated wires in place.
You should never over-tighten the screws in a terminal block as they can break and result in a poor connection between wires.
Spring loaded/Spring caged terminal blocks
A spring-loaded terminal block looks a lot like a screw-in terminal block. The main difference here is the method of how the wire is secured into place. You normally use a small terminal screwdriver to push down a spring-loaded tab to allow the wire to be pushed into place. Once you release the tab the spring-loaded mechanism pushes on the wire or ferrule and holds it in place.
When using spring-loaded terminal blocks we highly recommend using ferrules on the end of the wires to make the connection process much easier.
European connectors/terminal strips (blocks)
Terminal strips use screws to secure the wire in place. The difference between these and screw in terminal blocks is the actual body itself. Terminal strips are normally used for applications that do not require din rail or are mounted in a panel. European connectors are used for applications where small blocks are required (like cable repair).
Push in terminal blocks are becoming more and more popular as they are really easy to use and make the process of termination really quick.
Pluggable termination block
Pluggable termination blocks have a male and female side to them. Normally you connect the wires to the male side of the connection block. After you have done this you can insert the male side into the female side of the terminal block to quickly connect or disconnect the wires.
This type of terminal block is ideal for applications that require the connection or disconnection of components on a frequent basis.
Push in terminal blocks
Push in terminal blocks are a lot like spring-loaded terminal blocks. The main difference here is that the push in blocks features a point that needs pushing. Sometimes you can use your finger to secure the wires in place but normally a terminal screwdriver is required. The point is normally easily identifiable and located level with the main body.
Where are terminal blocks used?
Terminal blocks are used in electrical panels and systems to quickly and safely allow for the connection of wires to certain points of a circuit. They make wiring modifications extremely easy as they allow for wires to be connected/disconnected easily.
They can typically be found in:
- Electrical panels
- Electrical devices
- Electrical grounding
- On components that need disconnecting or reconnecting from a system
- On components that fail/need replacing
- Motor termination points
How to mount terminal blocks
Mounting terminal blocks depends on what type of terminal block you have. Some terminal blocks are din rail mounted, this means that they are slotted at the back to clip onto din rail that is normally used in electrical panels. Din rail-mounted terminal blocks sometimes can also be clipped into each other, this is useful in applications where a lot of terminal blocks are required as they keep the panel looking neat and tidy. Din rail-mounted terminal blocks can also have jumper connectors fitted across which can link a set of blocks to each other. This is useful in applications where you need a common supply for a number of components in a circuit or system. It is common to find this when control voltages (24V) are required to power a number of components in a circuit. If you put 24V+ into a row of connected terminal blocks then you can power a number of different components from that one group of blocks as they will all have 24V+ on.
Other types of terminal blocks sometimes have a screw hole in the middle of them. This means that you can use a screw or bolt to mount the terminal connection block wherever it is required.
How to wire terminal blocks
Terminal blocks are really simple and easy to use, to wire them all you need to do is the following:
- Insert your wire into one side of the terminal block.
- Depending on what style of block you have you will need to insert a terminal screwdriver, loosen the screw or push on the device which allows you to push the wire in.
- Push the wire in and secure the wire in place. You may have to tighten a screw, remove your driver or release the button to grip the wire.
- Check that the wire is secure in place by giving it a gentle pull to ensure it is being gripped.
- Repeat the process for the other side or wherever necessary.
- Some terminal blocks have exposed testing points on show where you can use a meter to check continuity.
Are terminal blocks safe?
Yes, terminal blocks have many different benefits and can increase the safety of an electrical system/panel. They can do this by grounding, isolating and protecting other components within the electrical system. The majority of terminal blocks are also finger-safe which means that they restrict access to the live terminals where a voltage may be present.
Terminal blocks can also be used as a testing point if they have points where your multimeter probes can fit. This also makes testing safer and easier when fault finding on a piece of equipment.
Can you cut terminal blocks?
Yes, but this depends on what type of terminal block you have/are using. Some terminal blocks cannot be cut as they come as single blocks. Other terminal connector blocks come in a strip. You can cut the desired quantity off the strip and use them as single connector blocks.
When cutting any terminal blocks you should ensure to remove any sharp edges that may have been left from the cut. Also always ensure that the insulation has been untouched and is still covering the terminals of the block.
Can you terminate more than one cable in a terminal block?
Yes, you can terminate more than one cable in a terminal block. This is only if the cables are small in size and there is enough room to do so. It is not recommended to put more than two wires together as the connection’s integrity could be affected. If there is enough room to do so one cable is still the best practice as it allows for a strong grip and also makes terminating wires much easier.
Hi, I’m Liam, the founder of Engineer Fix. Drawing from my extensive experience in electrical and mechanical engineering, I established this platform to provide students, engineers, and curious individuals with an authoritative online resource that simplifies complex engineering concepts.
Throughout my diverse engineering career, I have undertaken numerous mechanical and electrical projects, honing my skills and gaining valuable insights. In addition to this practical experience, I have completed six years of rigorous training, including an advanced apprenticeship and an HNC in electrical engineering. My background, coupled with my unwavering commitment to continuous learning, positions me as a reliable and knowledgeable source in the engineering field.