Altech Launches Vibration-Resistant STH5 Terminal Block

Electrical connections are a common failure point in industrial machinery, particularly in environments exposed to constant vibration. Altech’s new STH5 DIN-rail terminal block addresses that challenge with ring- and fork-lug connections designed to maintain secure electrical contact over time. Combined with a hinged finger-safe protective cover, the terminal block improves both reliability and worker safety. Rated for up to 85 amps and 600 volts, the STH5 is intended for demanding automation, motor control, and industrial control cabinet applications.

The STH5 terminal block with hinge safety cover. Image used courtesy of Altech Corp

The STH5 Hinge Terminal Blocks

When you need to make safe and secure connections between circuits within an industrial electrical cabinet, the terminal block is your friend. They come in multiple shapes, sizes, and connection types. The STH5 steps away from the crowd with a hinge cover protecting users from the conductive components. The connection is screw-type but designed for ring lugs crimped onto the wire end. The ring lug prevents loose connections caused by vibration, which can lead to short circuits, wire damage, and unexpected downtime.

The STH5 is rated for wire sizes from 22 to 4 AWG and can handle up to 600 Volts. Each terminal is rated for up to 85 amps and is considered finger-safe. While the STH5 supports ring-lug fasteners, it also supports fork-type lug connectors.

An industrial control cabinet that often uses terminal blocks. Image used courtesy of Unsplash

Small Change = Safer Installation

In a modern industrial electrical cabinet, you will likely find devices with dip or rotary switches that set addresses or node assignments. To configure these devices, you need to use a small flat screwdriver. For the untrained personnel, this can be a dangerous task; one small slip with that screwdriver can lead to injury or even death. With the STH5, a hinged cover protects technicians from conductive components when it is closed. This feature also helps with untrained personnel entering the electrical cabinet.

Electrical circuits joined with terminal blocks. Image courtesy of Unsplash

Positive Connections With Vibrating Conditions

Bow feeders, motors, conveyors, and staking machines are all sources of vibrations in industrial equipment. Some of these vibrations are unavoidable, but we need to manage them using positive connection technology for electrical connections. The STH5 terminal block requires each wire to use either a fork-type or a ring lug to connect to the terminal. This crimp lug and bolt feed-through terminal prevents wires from loosening over time in environments with excessive vibration.