Terminal Blocks & Strips

In motion and automation control systems, the need for safe and reliable connections between multiple electrical wires and circuits is clear. From energy technology to railway rolling stock, terminal blocks – or terminal strips – are the connectors that provide that assurance.

No matter the industrial application or electrical load-bearing requirements, RS is proud to offer a vast selection of connector blocks to meet all needs. We stock components and accessories from class-leading manufacturers including Phoenix Contact and TE Connectivity. It means that you can trust us to supply terminal blocks to your exact specifications every time.

Search our huge range of terminal blocks for the type, mount, and configuration you require.

What are terminal blocks and strips?

A terminal block or strip is a modular electrical connector that is designed to connect a single incoming wire to multiple outgoing wires. With its insulated construction, the components can distribute electrical power around a circuit (or to another one) safely and effectively. Terminal blocks can also be used to connect switches and outlets to mains power sources.

In their simplest form, terminal block connectors are arranged in a linear configuration – with each terminal connecting to a single pole. The connection is then made by a metal strip found within the insulating plastic frame. It is this frame that also provides a ground for the circuit – creating safe conditions for a circuit to terminate and reducing the risk of a short circuit.

Terminal blocks can prove extremely useful where there are semi-permanent connections. Due to the way in which they create the connection, it is easy to insert and remove a wire. This can be for testing, wire replacement, safety inspections, and maintenance. As such, terminal blocks are cost-effective power distribution solutions for commercial and industrial systems.

Are there different types of terminal blocks?

Not all terminal blocks are the same and there are different types, which are classified by their construction and intended application. Having knowledge of the type of connector block you need is essential to the performance of any industrial circuit or system.

Here are some device types that can be supplied by RS:

Ground terminals

The design of ground (or earth) terminal blocks makes it possible to interchange with standard terminal blocks. Their role is to ground wires or systems for safety reasons and help to prevent interference from electrical or other signals. Unlike other single-level feed-through terminals, ground terminal blocks are grounded to where they are mounted e.g. DIN rails.

Barrier terminal strips

Just as some standard terminal blocks use screws to hold the cables or wires, barrier terminal strips do so too. Used in settings where vibration can be an issue or to avoid a potential short circuit, there is often more than one termination point for cables. As such, it creates ‘barriers’ – or insulating blocks – between each terminal.

PCB mount terminals

PCB mount terminals are also known as Eurostyle or wire-to-board connector blocks. With this option, bare wires are inserted and clamped inside the housing. This housing is then soldered to a circuit board. Phoenix Contact terminal blocks are among the popular PCB mount terminals we offer at RS, along with other leading manufacturers.

Feed-through terminals

For applications where two wires are to be joined to establish a wire-to-wire connection, a feed-through terminal block is a convenient solution. With one input and one output contact, this is a type of terminal block that allows you to feed two different wires into opposite sides of the block.

Power distribution blocks

To distribute power from one input source to multiple outputs and devices, a power distribution block provides a safe and efficient solution. With this type of terminal block, you only need one large wire to be connected to your input terminal. It also ensures that you will not need to wire each individual device separately. This can help to isolate any potential circuiting issues too.

Other terminal block options available from RS include thermocouple blocks, I/O blocks to connect devices and controllers, and sensor/actuator blocks – well-suited to wiring a modern machine control system. To find exactly what you need, browse our vast range today.

Which terminal blocks is right for your application?

To ensure that you get the desired outcome, it is important to know which terminal blocks are best suited to your application, circuits, or systems. Here are some of the common factors that can help you determine the exact connector block components you require:

Current: The most important consideration is the current rating, which is based on how conductive either the terminals or cross-sectional areas are. If the current is too high, it can cause overheating. Plan for the current that will be handled – plus a further 50%.

Mounting: Terminal blocks can be mounted onto a DIN rail, screwed direct into a panel, or soldered onto a PCB.

Wire securing: To achieve the connection between wires, there are different methods to consider – including screw clamps, spring clamps, or tab connections.

Voltage rating: The maximum system voltage of the application in which a block is to be used must not exceed its voltage rating. This rating is determined by the dielectric pitch and strength of the housing.

Wires: The type and size of wire to be connected can determine which terminal block will be most suitable for an application. In North America, wire size is measured in American wire gauge (AWG).

Location/environment: The intended location of the application or system can be a factor to consider. Climate and mechanical vibrations are two external influences that can affect the performance of a circuit if an appropriate terminal block is not used.

What are terminal blocks and strips used for?

As such a versatile electrical connector, terminal blocks prove both useful and economical for a range of applications. It is why they are common feature in multiple industries, such as:

Process engineering and technology
Railway infrastructure and rolling stock
Shipbuilding and automotive manufacturing
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning
Domestic consumer appliances e.g. AV devices
Energy, chemical and petrochemical sectors

Why choose RS for your terminal blocks?

From light industry to heavy-duty applications, RS can supply your business or enterprise with the electrical components you require. As North America’s largest authorized distributor, our vast range of terminal blocks and strips is second-to-none.

You can search for terminal blocks from some of the world’s leading manufacturers – such as Phoenix Contact, Bussman by Eaton, Marathon Special Products, and TE Connectivity. To find exactly what you need, you can refine your search further using additional filters.

It is also possible to enter the product name/number into the search bar to locate the specific terminal blocks or strips you are looking for.

If your search does not return the terminal blocks you need, please contact our friendly team of advisors for support. Our expert content hub is also available to answer any questions you might have – or if you need further information about how to choose and use your terminal blocks