Barrier to Entry - Safety First

Barrier Strips are still being utilized in today's Electrical Systems, despite all the advancements in connection technology.  We’re trying to understand why this is so in the face of a myriad of safety advances in DIN Rail mounted Terminal Blocks.  Barrier strips may assist the technician who loves their wide shank quarter inch screwdriver but that’s about it.  The safety concerns are real and should send a wave of caution to Electrical Design Engineers in OEM’s and manufacturing facilities alike.  What are the main reasons one should consider upgrading FROM a barrier strip and why?

Limited Safety Features: Barrier Strips lack advanced protection, such as finger-safe designs, which can expose users to live connections and increase the risk of electrical shock. Open, live connections in a control enclosure never sounds like a good idea.

Space Efficiency: Modern terminal blocks, such as DIN rail-mounted options, are more compact and offer better utilization of panel space.  They can save up to three times the space of a Barrier Strip in some cases.

Flexibility and Features: Newer designs include screwless connections, quick wiring options, and integrated features like fuses, grounds or disconnects.

Durability Issues: Barrier strips can loosen over time due to vibrations, leading to unreliable connections.  DIN Rail mounted Terminal Blocks come in many different connection types such as screw, spring and push-in versions - all are self locking and vibration proof - eliminating another huge safety concern - overheating and/or fire.

Wire Preparation: There’s no need to prep the wire with a ring or spade lug - this step may be eliminated or replaced by use of wire ferrules, which are much safer.

Market Requirements: There are markets like Europe that will not allow for exposed terminals and require finger safety - this may inhibit ROW Sales.

American Electrical, Inc (AEI),, offers the Klemsan line of DIN Rail mounted Terminal Blocks at THE MOST COMPETITIVE price points in the USA !  Yes, you heard that right !  Please click below or call us at 804.379.2899 to learn more.

https://www.americanelectrical.com/category/connection/din-rail-mounted-terminal-blocks/

Think about migrating away from the unsafe features of Barrier Strips today and let AEI help you get there !!