With few exceptions, products that perform best in the marketplace have a “clean” design, meaning that they appear organized and uncluttered. This protocol goes beyond the product shell — high-end automobiles have engine bays that appear created by a graphic artist. Washing machines have interiors reassuringly spare, lending the impression that clean comes of clean. Transparent cases on consumer items like cameras and CD players suggest a lack of complexity to interfere with the intended function of the device.
Nevertheless, tidiness does have its purpose, particularly with elaborate wiring harnesses in autos, aircraft and industrial systems. Assembly, systems tests and troubleshooting are all simplified when one is not facing macraméd bundles of signal and power lines. There is also less chance of wires abrading against each other or against structural components in the vicinity.
Over the last several months, Phoenix Contact, Harrisburg, PA, added several products to their terminal block line that reduces the chore of assembling and maintaining industrial wiring assemblies. Leading these is the Quickon-QTC Fast Connection System, which has a simple insulation displacement design that eliminates the stripping of wires. To connect, the wire is inserted into the wire opening of the contact, which is then pivoted through an arc of less than 90 degrees using a standard screwdriver. The insulation displacement contact can handle conductors of #22-#16 AWG. Each block is just 5 mm wide, saving space in large arrays. High-grade special alloys and snap fittings ensure a secure and gas-tight connection. The large spring-loaded contact points assure a current carrying capacity of 15A. The system is designed such that rigid and flexible conductors can be reconnected more than once. Dual jumper channels make it possible to carry two potentials parallel along a single module, and the end brackets are redesigned to fit more securely. Options include single and modular test plugs, end covers, dividers and various marker components. The system also introduces an accessory component plug that permits discrete resistors or diodes to be added directly into a circuit.
Another component is the TCP thermal miniature circuit breaker system, consisting of a modular base terminal block and separate circuit pluggable breaker, which replaces inconvenient glass fuses. Offered in a range from 0.25 to 10A at either 250 VAC or 65 VDC, an integrated switching function allows tripped circuits to be immediately switched back on, doubling their function as an on/off switch. A variable length screw bridge or push-in bridge can distribute the input voltage to a maximum of ten circuits. An optional indication lamp is offered on either a screw clamp or a spring cage terminal block for optically signaling a tripped circuit.
Both of these products mount to DIN rails, and Phoenix Contact has introduced a raised-height aluminum version. Many panel builders find it difficult to terminate wire into components mounted on standard DIN-rail when the wire duct is close, or when large panel mount products sit high on the panel; the raised rail with centered mounting slots and larger 1-in. dia. cable routing holes facilitates this process. The rail has an industry-standard height of 2.26 in., with a reduced overall width of 1.38 in. The center mounting slots, which can accommodate #10 slotted, Phillips or hex-head screws, are spaced 3-in. apart for easier rail installation. The 1-in. dia holes on the vertical web of the rail are spaced at 6 in. intervals. While existing raised aluminum rail designs are offset and only available in 1m lengths (a hindrance to panel layout and assembly time in tall control cabinets), these rails are offered in both 1 and 2m lengths.
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With few exceptions, products that perform best in the marketplace have a “clean” design, meaning that they appear organized and uncluttered. This protocol goes beyond the product shell — high-end automobiles have engine bays that appear created by a graphic artist. Washing machines have interiors reassuringly spare, lending the impression that clean comes of clean. Transparent cases on consumer items like cameras and CD players suggest a lack of complexity to interfere with the intended function of the device.
Over the last several months, Phoenix Contact, Harrisburg, PA, added several products to their terminal block line that reduces the chore of assembling and maintaining industrial wiring assemblies. Leading these is the Quickon-QTC Fast Connection System, which has a simple insulation displacement design that eliminates the stripping of wires. To connect, the wire is inserted into the wire opening of the contact, which is then pivoted through an arc of less than 90 degrees using a standard screwdriver. The insulation displacement contact can handle conductors of #22-#16 AWG. Each block is just 5 mm wide, saving space in large arrays. High-grade special alloys and snap fittings ensure a secure and gas-tight connection. The large spring-loaded contact points assure a current carrying capacity of 15A. The system is designed such that rigid and flexible conductors can be reconnected more than once. Dual jumper channels make it possible to carry two potentials parallel along a single module, and the end brackets are redesigned to fit more securely. Options include single and modular test plugs, end covers, dividers and various marker components. The system also introduces an accessory component plug that permits discrete resistors or diodes to be added directly into a circuit.
Both of these products mount to DIN rails, and Phoenix Contact has introduced a raised-height aluminum version. Many panel builders find it difficult to terminate wire into components mounted on standard DIN-rail when the wire duct is close, or when large panel mount products sit high on the panel; the raised rail with centered mounting slots and larger 1-in. dia. cable routing holes facilitates this process. The rail has an industry-standard height of 2.26 in., with a reduced overall width of 1.38 in. The center mounting slots, which can accommodate #10 slotted, Phillips or hex-head screws, are spaced 3-in. apart for easier rail installation. The 1-in. dia holes on the vertical web of the rail are spaced at 6 in. intervals. While existing raised aluminum rail designs are offset and only available in 1m lengths (a hindrance to panel layout and assembly time in tall control cabinets), these rails are offered in both 1 and 2m lengths.