Twisting is the main connection of conductors of the last century. Today, several other methods are used, for example, crimping with copper sleeves, soldering, and of course, convenient and durable VAGO terminals. Which will be discussed further.
Design features of WAGO terminal blocks
The VAGO terminal is a type of self-clamping terminal blocks, the use of which does not require any tool. The product catalog contains a lot of models, from simple products for connecting two wires, to whole boxes, which are designed for high amperage and are installed in switchboards.
What elements does the VAGO terminal consist of:
- Plastic, fully dielectric housing. It can be either transparent or completely covered with paint.
- Spring contact. The main element of the terminal block, which, in fact, provides reliable contact of the conductors.
- Plastic "paws". Provided on older models. With the help of "lugs" the spring contact is securely fixed in place.
But in general, everything is a small plastic case, which is very convenient to work with anywhere: whether it is a junction box under the very ceiling or an electrical switchboard.
Features of the WAGO spring contact
The VAGO spring contact has a very important feature - it is self-clamping. It is necessary to make an effort to insert the conductor into the terminal, after which a specially shaped copper plate fixes it securely.
In outdated models, with the help of plastic "paws", the spring was bent to the side and a wire of a certain section was conveniently inserted into the terminal. It remained only to snap the latch. Modern VAGOs do everything on their own and there is a simple algorithm to work with them: clean conductor, insert it into the terminal hole... and that's it, you can put the resulting connection into the distribution box.
The contact is made of high quality materials with high conductivity, such as brass (free of foreign additives) and an alloy of copper with nickel and zinc - nickel silver. The result: an unusually long service life without oxidation of the contacts and their secure fixation.
Where VAGO terminals should not be used
Yet nothing is perfect and perfect, and WAGO terminals are no exception.
They should not be used:
- In rooms or buildings with high humidity. For example, in junction boxes, sockets or bathroom switches.
- On lines where there will be high amperage. Or read the technical specifications for the terminals carefully. There are VAGOs designed for high currents, but the price for them is appropriate. Basically, all models are designed for standard household needs.
In order for WAGO terminal blocks to serve the period declared by the manufacturer, it is necessary to choose only the present products, and not a cheap Chinese counterfeit, which is unable to cope with the power of conventional iron. And real VAGOs are produced only in Germany, so it will be useful to look at the manufacturer's certificate before buying.