RS Offers Next-Generation Terminal Blocks from Phoenix Contact

­RS, a global product and service solutions provider for industrial customers, offers Phoenix Contact’s growing line of terminal blocks equipped with its innovative Push-X connection technology, which is tested and proven to facilitate wired connections that are user-friendly, flexible, durable, reliable, repairable, and safe. 

Connectivity is at the core of all electrical and electronic technologies. But it plays a particularly vital role in facilitating the effective operation of the densely interconnected and automated Industry 4.0 technologies that are essential to overcoming common industrial market challenges, including unplanned downtime, new safety and sustainability demands, and cost constraints.

To support the growing need for rugged and reliable industrial connectivity, Phoenix Contact developed Push-X connection technology, which features a pretensioned contact spring that establishes direct wiring connections for all types of conductors — including flexible and rigid conductors with or without ferrules and with cross sections extending from 0.5mm2 to 25mm2 — without the need for tools or force. This unique capability significantly reduces installation times and paves the way for fully automated wiring processes that will further improve process efficiency and product quality and help users address pervasive industry challenges, including skilled labor shortages. Phoenix Contact’s Push-X connection technology is currently available in its XT and XTV series DIN-rail terminal block connectors, as well as its XPC series PCB terminal block connectors. 

Phoenix Contact’s Push-X connection technology delivers: 

• Extremely convenient operation. The structure of the Push-X clamping chamber enables effortless, tool-free connections. The unique locking mechanism holds the contact spring in a pretentioned state until even the smallest flexible conductor is inserted into the end of the Push-X connection chamber, at which point the locking mechanism actuates, releasing the contact spring and securely clamping the conductor. In addition, despite its robust clamping capability, the locking mechanism is designed to rapidly release wired conductors with a simple press of the technology’s orange actuating push button, which facilitates quick and easy rewiring as needed.
   
• Enhanced flexibility. Since Push-X connection technology accommodates all conductor types, it allows users to simplify their material inventory management and streamline their design and installation processes. The fact that it also makes it quick and easy to release wired conductors can reduce the costs associated with replacing damaged conductors.
   
• Tangible savings. Push-X connection technology eliminates the need for wire preparation, which reduces installation times and costs and frees technicians up to focus on value-added tasks.
   
• Reliable connections. Force-guided, acoustic, and visual feedback confirm secure connections, reduce user error, increase reliability, and enhance safety. Secure connections ensure that there is no risk of wires becoming loose, which could lead to short circuits or other safety hazards.
   
• Broad compatibility. Push-X product lines are compatible with existing Phoenix Contact terminal block connector systems, including COMBICON and CLIPLINE complete, which makes it more cost effective for users to implement the latest terminal block technology.

Phoenix Contact's new XT terminal blocks with Push-X technology feature front-facing connection ports with a nominal cross-section of 2.5mm2 and enable the quick, easy, and secure connection of 20–12AWG conductors. They are available in feed-through, multi-conductor, multi-level, and disconnect designs with an optional protective conductor foot and 2–4 connections, UL classified in Group B and C, and UL rated for 20A/600V for standard feed-through blocks and 20A/300V for functioning blocks. They are also compatible with various function plugs, including fuses, components, and disconnect knives. 

Phoenix Contact's XTV terminal blocks with Push-X technology feature lateral connection ports with nominal cross-sections of 6, 10, and 16mm2 and enable the quick, easy, and secure connection of 14–4AWG conductors with cross-sections spanning 0.5–25mm2. They are available in feed-through, ground, multi-conductor, and test disconnect designs with 2–4 connections, UL classified in Group B and C, and UL rated for 40–75A/600V.

Phoenix Contact’s XPC terminal blocks with Push-X technology are designed to mount to PCBs rather than DIN rails and are available with 2–16 connections on a 3.5mm pitch, They enable the quick, easy, and secure connection of  22–16AWG conductors and are rated for up to 8A and 160V.

To learn more about Push-X terminal blocks and other Phoenix Contact products available at RS, please visit the link embedded here.