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Terminal Blocks - Barrier Blocks

Barrier Blocks, a type of terminal blocks, are wiring devices designed to connect electrical circuits in a neat and secure manner. They can also be referred to as a screw block, barrier strip, barrier terminal, bridge plug, or terminal strip. Barrier blocks are widely used for industrial and commercial applications due to their durability, flexibility, and convenience.

Features of Barrier Blocks

Barrier blocks typically feature a single row of closely spaced screw terminals, with two or more connecting blocks joined together by a removable or non-removable barrier. This offers excellent insulation and protection of the wiring compared to normal terminal blocks. Barrier blocks feature greater durability since their contact points are reinforced with soldered insulation. They also feature a large number of connection points, as many as 500 points in some cases. This makes the barrier block one of the most popular means of wiring large applications.

Barrier blocks may feature different types of screw terminals, including flat head, round head, steel and brass screws. The size and shape of the barrels are designed to fit a variety of wire gauges for flexibility in wiring most kinds of applications. The hole sizes may vary to fit different number of conductors per terminal.

Advantages of Barrier Blocks

Barrier blocks provide an easy and secure way to make electrical connections. The barrier blocks are designed in such a way that they are highly resistant to shock and moisture. They are also less prone to accidental short-circuiting, and easy to replace if needed. The design of a barrier block allows for quick and easy installation and removal of wiring, without having to disassemble any part of the device. This makes them ideal for applications where frequent changes or modifications to the wiring are expected.

Barrier blocks are also relatively less expensive than buying multiple terminal blocks due to their superior insulation and connection points per block. In some cases, the barrier blocks can also replace the need for a junction box as they provide the same level of insulation and protection.

Applications and Working Principle of Barrier Blocks

Barrier blocks are widely used in industrial, automotive, and commercial applications. They are commonly used in motor control centers, circuit breaker boxes, relay racks, and transmission substations. They are also used in industrial automation systems, HVAC systems, commercial heating and cooling systems, and electrical instrumentation.

The working principle of a barrier block is simple. It consists of one or more rows of terminals that are connected by a removable or non-removable barrier. Electrical signals enter the terminals of a barrier block, and the current is then distributed to the connected devices. Barrier blocks are also designed so that the terminal areas are adequately insulated, to protect against short circuits.

Conclusion

Barrier blocks are essential wiring devices used for both commercial and industrial applications. They offer a convenient and secure way to make electrical connections and provide superior insulation and protection against short-circuiting. Barrier blocks are also relatively less expensive than buying multiple terminal blocks due to their superior connection points per block.