In industrial control, power systems, automation equipment, and electronic products, terminal blocks are one of the most common and critical connectors.Choosing the right type of terminal block (such as pluggable PCB terminals, screw terminals, or spring terminals) not only affects wiring efficiency but also directly impacts system stability and future maintenance costs.
I. What are Pluggable PCB Terminal Blocks?
Pluggable PCB terminal blocks consist of two parts: a plug and a base, allowing for quick insertion and removal without the need for rewiring.
This type of terminal block is widely used in modular equipment and industrial control systems.
Advantages include:
- Fast installation and maintenance
- Reliable connection and stable contact
- Suitable for PCB mounting
- Available in various pitch sizes, such as 3.5mm, 3.81mm, 5.0mm, 5.08mm, 7.5mm, and 7.62mm
II. Screw Terminal Blocks: Characteristics
Screw terminal blocks secure wires using screws, resulting in a robust structure. They are one of the most common types of terminals in industrial applications.
Main Features:
- Secure wire fixation with strong tensile strength
- Suitable for medium to high current applications
- Low cost and high versatility
- Available in various configurations, including PCB mount screw terminals, 2-pin, 3-pole, etc.
III. Spring/Screwless Terminal Blocks
Spring terminal blocks use spring clips to secure wires, eliminating the need for screws and improving assembly efficiency.
Key Advantages:
- Fast wiring, reducing labor time
- Excellent vibration resistance
- Suitable for high-density PCB designs
IV. PCB Mounting Terminals and Barrier Terminal Blocks
In applications requiring high insulation distance and safety, barrier terminal blocks are widely used,
suitable for power supplies, power control, and industrial equipment.
V. How to Choose the Right Terminal Block?
When selecting a terminal block, it is recommended to focus on:
1. Terminal spacing (Pitch)
2. Current and voltage ratings
3. Wiring method (screw/spring/pluggable)
4. PCB mounting method
5. Frequency of future maintenance
Conclusion:
Whether it's pluggable terminals, PCB-mounted terminals, or spring terminals, choosing the right terminal solution can significantly improve system stability.
As a professional terminal manufacturer and supplier, we can provide customized PCB terminal solutions for our customers.
1. Screw connection: This method uses screw terminals to connect wires. It is important to consider the maximum and minimum wire cross-sections allowed, as well as the maximum torque for different screw sizes.2. Soldering connection: The most common soldering method is tin soldering. It is essential to ensure that a continuous metal connection is formed between the solder material and the surface being soldered. Different types of soldering connections include solder tab style, eyelet solder tab style, and arc notch solder tab style.3. Crimp connection: Crimping is a technique where metal is compressed and displaced within specified limits to connect wires to contact pairs. Good crimp connections can produce metal intermolecular flow, resulting in symmetrical deformation of the wire and contact material. This type of connection is similar to cold welding and can withstand harsh environmental conditions.4. Wrapping connection: Wrapping involves wrapping the wire directly around the angular contact pillar. The wire is wrapped, pressed, and fixed at the angular contact pillar to create a sealed contact.
When using PCB terminal blocks for wiring applications, it is important to keep in mind the following precautions:1. Always ensure that the power is switched off before starting any wiring operations. Never attempt to work on the terminal blocks while they are live. If you are unsure whether the power is off, use a voltage tester to verify. Additionally, if there are sliding buttons on the terminal blocks or switches, it is advisable to replace them if they are worn out to prevent any risk of electric shock.2. When connecting to the power source, make sure to install PVC conduit for wire routing. Avoid leaving wires hanging loosely without any proper support or fixation on support brackets or busbars.3. Pay attention to the length of the wires when connecting to the switch box. It is recommended to keep the wire lengths within a suitable range and properly route them through conduits. Avoid pushing the wires directly into the switches for fixing.By following these precautions, you can ensure safe and efficient operation of the PCB terminal blocks. If you have any further questions or need assistance, please feel free to contact us.