Terminal Strip Block & Connectors QUALITY

[xboxhaxorz]

I am looking for these item and have come across various types and designs. I personally have used many in the past, but we have a client who is looking for top quality workmanship and parts. So we want to provide them with just that.
http://www.parts-express.com/5-32-(1...0-pcs--095-326

For actual connectors we felt this would be best for joining wires since they require a bit of force to come out, however im sure if they the best choice quality wise.

In regards to the distribution of power these look much better than the plastic counterparts and breakage seems much less probable due to the material.
http://www.tempco.com/accessories/Cr..._EnclsdTrm.htm

The voltage being used is 220v with approximately 2 to 12 amps in various areas. We currently have 2 pole ceramic connectors left over from a project and had considered connecting 4 wires to each point. So a total of 8 wires going to a 2 pole block, essentially because we only need the live and ground points. I am not sure if it would be better to purchase a few more 2 poles and daisy chain them or purchase a 2 4 pole connectors. Cost is not a major factor, we dont want to purchase expensive products if they are not necessary or perhaps overpriced but we do want quality parts and will pay fair value if it is necessary.

[redwire]

Re: Terminal Strip Block & Connectors QUALITY

Are you looking for a chassis mount terminal block, or in-line connector or in-line splice?
At 220V and currents of 2-12amps, you have to look at UL/CSA requirements because there is a safety aspect. Regulatory allows different connectors- depending on the enclosure or location. You are using stranded 16-14ga wire?

I dislike crimp connectors because they are rarely done properly and wires pull out, or they just run hot and melt. They are not insulated well and loose strands can present a shock hazard.

You also have to size things according to the branch feed protection. If you have a 15A circuit breaker, then each wire must be rated for this. Running 4 16 ga wires into a 2-pole block is going to overstuff the cage clamp.

If this is going in a panel (NEMA4 enclosure), I use DIN-rail terminal blocks as they pass UL/CSA inspection and I don't have to worry.

[xboxhaxorz]

Re: Terminal Strip Block & Connectors QUALITY

Probably chasis mount similar to this which we have used for similar projects: http://www.jameco.com/1/1/26329-4-14...nal-block.html

Yes we are using stranded wire 14 gauge. I dont think DIN would work in this environment. I agree with you about the crimp connectors will take a look at some other options.

The solder connectors seem very pricey, i think crimping, then soldering and heat shrink would achieve a strong bond.

Part of the wiring which was done for low voltage already has crimps connected, i was thinking of touching all of them up with a bit of solder to prevent any shocks.

[redwire]

Re: Terminal Strip Block & Connectors QUALITY

I'm sharing what I know, from the view of building control panels and oilpatch/rig controls and getting them through CSA/UL inspections.

Whatever you come up with, exposed high-voltage terminals are something you don't want to be liable for.
Best is "touch safe" which is something I really recommend. Or mount this stuff in a covered box, something only electricians will venture into.

The Cinch, Beau, Curtis terminal blocks are okay if you use the jumper shunts. You get a max. of 1 connection/screw + a jumper. The screws are too short for a jumper and two crimps, and electrical code does not like more than two wires in one spot. I found this solution didn't give me much - i.e. a 4 position terminal block accomodated 4 wires and a jumper. Sometimes plastic covers exist for these.

The ceramic terminal blocks you show have the "el-cheapo" clamp. This is a screw that compresses the wire, and they do poorly with stranded or multiple wires. A rough neck will overtighten and break the ceramic or bakelight.
White Euro-style terminal blocks are crap, the plastic snaps esp. when cold and the spring clamps get stuck.

Crimp connectors have never done well for me. The crimping tool/die mismatches the crimps, they aren't crimped hard enough, the crimp damages the insulation, etc. Soldering melts the insulators and then they slide off. Just a lot of drama.

I use Phoenix Contact/Weidmuller sliding cage-clamp DIN rail terminal blocks and they are excellent for reliability and safety. Easy to mount a fuse/leds, relays, or future expansion. Add a buss bar and power distribution is pretty easy.
You don't need a crimp, can fit two wires in one spot, touch safe, and idiot proof. Two drill screws to mount the TS-35 rail, Digikey will cut to any length for you.

If DIN rail is not an option, go with the terminal strip and there's always marrettes. If you need a disconnect ability, your options are even fewer because this app has lethal power levels and industry sticks to tried and true.

[xboxhaxorz]

Re: Terminal Strip Block & Connectors QUALITY

Thanks for the info. There will not be regular access to the components, they will be sealed in a grounded metal case. Regarding the crimp connectors i totally agree, i did perform a test using butt connectors and heat shrink and it does seem to hold well.
https://www.dropbox.com/s/p9u2606rqn2e3ly/pic.jpg

I tried yanking the wires apart and it did not budge.

For the distribution of power, the reason i was looking into the ceramic was because of the high temperature area the wires could possibly be subject too. Initially i had trouble finding multi poles, which is why i was asking about having several wires going into a single screw terminal. But i came across a 4 pole which is just the size i need.

http://www.morelectricheating.com/de...code=IRTB10005

In regards to the el cheapo clamp, i had considered using stranded wire and then tinning the tips before inserting into the connector to create a solid end. They also carry the traditional style http://www.tempco.com/accessories/CrmcBlck_IntrnlWr.htm as well. I do not require disconnect ability for the most part. Only if a component failed i do not want a super permanent connection.

[xboxhaxorz]

Re: Terminal Strip Block & Connectors QUALITY

I bought this crimper http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00...?ie=UTF8&psc=1 and i can say using this it creates a very secure clamp the wire can not be removed its definitely permanent

[stj]

Re: Terminal Strip Block & Connectors QUALITY

it's not just the tool,
it's the quality of the crimp-terminals.

btw, what about these?
http://www.hellermanntyton.us/products.aspx?cat=1160

[xboxhaxorz]

Re: Terminal Strip Block & Connectors QUALITY

I agree, i did some research on terminals

Those look cool