Safe, Simple, Smart – and also secure: push-in terminals maintain reliable grip on industrial control panel wiring connectors

We’ve previously explained how quick and efficient push-in terminal wiring can be. This time, learn more about one of the biggest benefits that push-in terminals provide after wiring is complete: reassuringly secure grip.

What makes a push-in terminal so secure?

When you push a wire into the wiring port, it pushes back a spring-loaded clamp inside the terminal. Once the wire is in place, the clamp starts to push back against the connector.

This consistent pressure prevents the wire from moving. As the amount of pressure is constant, there is no risk of it eventually loosening.

A push-in terminal maintains the same level of grip on an installed wire – and the direct, reliable electrical conductor connection – throughout its lifespan.

Pull resistance: wires can’t be removed by accident

In our catalogs and manuals for IDEC products with push-in terminals, we explain that wiring is simple:

Step 1: push the wire straight in, to the back of the wiring port, as far as it can go.

Step 2: lightly pull on the wire to confirm that it’s properly installed.

We suggest giving wires a light pull – but they can withstand much more force than that. The pull-out force for push-in terminals is higher than that for screw terminals and spring clamp terminals.

A wire that’s been correctly installed in a push-in terminal won’t loosen or fall out. The chances of pulling a wire out by accident are reassuringly low.

This level of reliability is essential in many industrial settings.

International safety standards and best practice guides for industrial control panel wiring emphasize the importance of correctly installing wires and storing slack. Loose or disconnected wires can lead to significant equipment downtime and workplace safety hazards.

The simple, safe way to remove wires from a push-in terminal – when ready – is: press and hold down the pusher with a flat blade screwdriver, and carefully pull out the wire.

Vibration resistance: reliable when installed near machines and moving parts

As the wire is held firmly in position, the potential effects of vibration and shocks are significantly reduced.

Industrial equipment can vibrate during operation – often caused by the motor or generator running the machine, or components moving inside. This vibration is normal, and typically minimal.

In other cases, repetitive back-and-forth movement is essential to the machine’s function. Industrial sanding machines, sorting conveyor belts and precision machine tools can all be classed as vibration-assisted machinery (VAM).

There are also times when stronger vibration is a sign that the equipment needs maintenance. Wear and tear, misalignment and balance issues affect the dynamics of machine components. These problems can increase the amount of vibration and noise produced by affected equipment.

No matter how the vibration is caused, nearby control panel components and wiring terminals feel the effects. For example, screws holding wires, connectors and parts together can be turned and loosened by vibrations – especially if they haven’t been tightened properly.

Feel secure knowing that push-in terminals enhance convenience and safety

Push-in terminals can drastically reduce control panel wiring times. Once wired, they maintain a secure grip on the connections for long-term system safety.

IDEC has implemented S3 (Safe, Simple, Smart) push-in connection technology across a wide variety of safety devices: PLCs, safety relay modules, switches, pilot lights, and more. Explore the range and your options with your regional sales team.