Things to Consider While Using Barrier Strip

4 min read

A barrier strip with a flip-open transparent safety cover is designed for various electrical applications. These strips stop electrical shorts between locations on the same block and between neighboring components by containing stray or frayed wire ends. Wire termination and connection are made possible by making use of this strip through interconnected connections made of a metal strip or screws. 

Barrier Strip

Electrical connectors in the form of screws called barrier strips enable connections between many circuits consisting of custom plastic parts. Screws are tightened to clamp wires to metal components. The arrangement of several screw terminals creates a barrier or insulating block between the metal strips. There are three primary types of barrier strip style terminal blocks: Double Row, Tri-Barrier, and Dual Barrier. They offer a variety of industry-standard centerline spacings, one can select respective types from high-density to high-current applications. 

Working

A pair of screws will be placed on each strip such that they connect to a different conductor at each end of the strip. As an alternative, terminal strips with many screws spaced along two strips form a bus bar that distributes power. Barrier Strip offers a dependable connection and can handle a wide variety of wire diameters. The barrier's wire is referred to as the "contact," and the distance between each contact, measured from the center of each aperture or hole, is known as the "contact pitch."

Application

In electrical wiring, these strips are widely used to link switches, outlets, lighting fixtures, and mains for the distribution of power. Major appliances like ovens are immediately connected to them as well. Barrier strips are used in surge protectors, speakers, machine controls, power supplies, test and measurement, automation equipment, security/alarm devices, HVAC controls, garage door openers, furnaces, water heaters, and boilers.

Important Consideration

  • Individuals must be aware of the total voltage and current needs for the respective system when they build a system that includes a terminal block. The design should also consider the following criteria:
  • When designing terminal blocks with different custom plastic parts, the present rating is frequently the most crucial factor to take into account. The cross-sectional area, corresponding heat rise, and terminal conductivity all go into the current rating. Excessive current usage might result in overheating and damage to the terminal block, which poses serious safety risks. 
  • The terminal block housing's dielectric strength and pitch play a role in determining the voltage rating. The application's maximum system voltage must be lower than the voltage rating. While choosing the terminal block, any voltage surges in the system should also be taken into consideration.
  • Depending on how many separate circuits are required for the particular application, this can range from as little as one pole to as many as 24 poles and more. The phrase "pole count" also refers to the total number of separate circuits in the terminal block. 
  • The center distance between two poles in a terminal block is known as its pitch. The total rating of the terminal block, which takes into account variables like voltage/current, creepage, and clearance, frequently determines the pitch of the connector.
  • The terminal block's minimum and maximum wire sizes depend on the voltage and current rating. Apart from verifying the physical fit of the wires into the terminal block, it is also important to take into account the kind of wire.

Get the Perfect Match

The terminal blocks are advantageous because of their secure connections, flexibility, and resistance to severe environments. They are a popular option in many industries since they can support various wire sizes and types of custom plastic parts. Get the best terminal blocks which can help you save time and money while enhancing safety and dependability by streamlining electrical connections.

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John Scott 2
Joined: 7 months ago
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