A distribution block is an extremely functional element of switchboard equipment installed in both industrial facilities and residential buildings. It enables precise, convenient and safe distribution of power to various power supply circuits. When is the use of distribution blocks particularly advisable and which distribution block to choose for the electrical installation being performed?
Check out the distribution blocks at the Onninen wholesaler
What is a distribution block?
A distribution block (also known as a block of distribution strips, a connection block or a distribution block) is an electrical device used to distribute electrical energy. Distribution blocks are used in electrical switchboards, where they are used to connect many wires, powered from only one source. They successfully connect wires of different diameters. The distribution block has strips (1, 2 or 4 pieces) and mounting holes of different sizes. The copper strip allows for independent connection of wire cores - thinner and thicker, copper and aluminum. Safety is ensured by a special cover, which is standardly equipped with the blocks. The cover is closed after the electrician has made the required connections.
Application of distribution blocks
Distribution blocks are used in installations where it is necessary to separate separate electrical circuits. The block allows you to connect a supply cable with relatively large cross-sections, and then distribute the power to small-diameter outgoing cables. The supply circuits are connected to the outgoing ones, so electricity flows to the switches and sockets. Both cables and wires can be connected to the block. The resulting connection is durable, resistant to the destructive effects of external factors, and easy to carry out.
Power is distributed to devices in an efficient and safe manner, so that there is no overload or short circuit. The exclusion of cable sleeves translates into a much lower risk of failure within the switchboard. And even if a fault occurs or the installation needs to be rebuilt, the ideal arrangement of the wire infrastructure definitely makes the work of specialists easier. The use of a distribution block allows the implementation of an orderly, efficiently operating, trouble-free electrical installation for the user.
What types of distribution blocks are there?
Distribution blocks available on the market differ in terms of, among others, capacity, connection method, location in the switchboard or materials. In practice, the most common division of distribution blocks is into 3 main types:
- compact distribution blocks (also known as single-pole blocks) - connecting wires of different diameters;
- modular distribution blocks (also known as multi-pole blocks) – installed on DIN rails, used to distribute electrical energy into more circuits;
- pass-through distribution blocks – enabling quick and safe connection of copper or aluminium cables.
The most important parameters of the distribution block are:
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number of poles (e.g. 4-pole distribution block ), - total number of connections,
- cross-sections of connected cables,
- material of conducting wires,
- presence of an insulating cover,
- rated current,
- mounting method (e.g. distribution block on the rail ),
- connection type,
- dimensions,
- housing colours (allows visual separation of protective, phase and neutral terminals).
The selection of the distribution block should be performed by an electrician or other specialist familiar with the dimensioning of wires.
Distribution blocks at the Onninen wholesaler
In the online electrical wholesaler Onninen you will find a wide range of solutions in the field of switchboard equipment. We offer distribution blocks for home and industrial installations, with certificates and approvals, from leading domestic and European manufacturers and suppliers. You can order from us, among others, a Hager distribution block - an excellent German manufacturer of electrical installation equipment. Thanks to the intuitive search engine and numerous filters, you will easily find a model with the required parameters.