Terminal box: types of distribution system and options for connecting wires in it

Modern life cannot be imagined without electricity. It is necessary to repair and connect new electrical appliances to the network in accordance with the established rules. It is important to know how the wires should be connected together. Their competent connection in the terminal box is the key to high-quality and safe operation of the electrical network. There are several types of distribution systems, as well as different methods of connecting wires.

Distribution system types

A distribution system is a small circular or rectangular structure designed to collect and store electrical wires in a specific living space. The terminal box is connected to an electrical panel located on the landing. Such switchgears are used in various types of premises. The maximum number of precision connections in a box is 12. Several types of distribution structures are known. Terminal boxes are divided into the following categories:

1. Scope of use. Explosion-proof and general industrial terminal box.
2. Installation method. They are used for hidden installation on a concrete surface. They are mounted in open rooms and places hidden behind plaster. Junction boxes U1 are used for hinged rooms.
3. In appearance. Rectangular, square and round terminal blocks are commercially available.
4. By the degree and magnitude of protection from external stimuli. For example, with additional protection against moisture or dust.
5. Manufacturing material. Metal and plastic devices, PVC boxes, polypropylene structures are produced.
6. Junction box with terminals.

The need for construction

It is believed that when installing electrical wiring, you can do without a terminal structure. This is theoretically possible. In practice, however, the absence of a junction box only complicates the wiring process. In this case, each source of electricity consumption must be personally connected to the switchboard using a separate wire. Individual connection is financially expensive, so it is prudent to use a terminal box. The distribution structure has some attractive advantages:

1. Possibility of periodic inspection of the electrical system. Most problems with electrical wires are related to faulty connections. To eliminate such difficulties, you should have open access to the whole system.
2. Fire safety. Distribution structures increase the level of fire safety. The most vulnerable in this situation are the places where the wires are connected. The lack of tight contact causes a lot of resistance, which causes the connecting sections to become excessively hot. Such changes are causing a fire.
3. The use of a distribution system helps to save money.
4. With the terminal design, the wires look aesthetically pleasing and do not take up much space.
5. The power supply system is easy to repair. All connections and wires are accessible in the junction box, therefore, if necessary, it is easy to find the damaged area and replace the damaged elements of the current electrical system.

Ways to connect wires

In the terminal box, it is permissible to connect the conductors in different ways. Each connection method has its own characteristics, advantages and disadvantages.

Soldering is a method in which the wires are twisted using a soldering iron. If the house has such a tool, you can use this method of connecting wires. Twisting begins with the application of soldering flux. The soldering iron must be dipped in rosin, and then carried out several times in a place protected from insulation. A red coating should appear on the soldering iron. Then the wires are connected together by hand twisting. At the time of connection, the use of pliers or pliers is permissible.

The twist must be well heated until the tin connects to the turns of the soldering iron. It will take a long time to connect the wires, but the result is worth it.

Bolting is an efficient and economical method for stranding electrical wires. You need to have a nut, three washers and a short bolt with a small section. You will need electrical tape. Connecting wires involves several important steps:

1. The washer is placed over the bolt.
2. A protected wire is wound on top.
3. A second washer is put on, then the next wire is wound.
4. After the third washer, the structure is tightly tightened with a nut.

Crimping is one of the popular methods for twisting wires. For the connection, you will need special tubular sleeves and pliers. The size of the selected sleeve should not exceed the size of the bundle of wires. The crimping process is as follows:

1. The first step is to remove the insulation from the wire.
2. Several wires are twisted into one bundle.
3. Press pliers crimp the sleeve with the wires. The number of crimps depends on the quality of the tool used.
4. The finished joint (joint) is completely insulated. Plain blue duct tape will come in handy.

Reliable insulation is one of the main advantages of crimping. This connection method has its drawbacks. So, the installation of electrical wiring takes a lot of time. At the time of crimping, the sleeve is too deformed, so it cannot be reused. In addition, additional special tools are required to crimp the sleeve.

The terminal blocks are plastic housing construction. It is used to install switches and lights. The small device fits easily into a junction box. There is a wire fastening system inside the structure. Conductors (2-4 pieces) are installed in special cells and connected. Conductors must be stripped of insulation. With the help of a screw and a screwdriver, they complete the installation of the electrical system.

This connection method has its pitfalls. For example, network outages are possible due to poor quality pads. It is important to exercise caution when working with stranded wires and aluminum structures, as brittle metal can damage the contact created.

Safe operation

There are dozens of ways to twist and install wires in a junction box. When choosing one method or another, you should take into account the number of wires to be connected in one system. If a large number of conductors are installed in the box, soldering, crimping and terminal blocks are recommended. Conventional terminal blocks are suitable for laying wires of different cross-sections.

The main criterion when choosing a connection method is ensuring the safe operation of electrical networks.

Cost and durability are secondary issues in resolving this issue. Whatever the type of connection of wires in the junction box, all of them must be in a place accessible for inspection at any time.